ANA and JAL battle Delta and United on the Pacific; Haneda departures save 2+ hours.
ANA and JAL each operate daily nonstops from both Haneda and Narita, giving Tokyo four Japanese-carrier departures to JFK daily. Delta adds Haneda-JFK and United operates NRT-EWR. Eastbound flights chase the sun and take about 13 hours; the westbound return is 14-15 hours against headwinds. Haneda's city-center location saves 2+ hours of ground transfer versus Narita. On Tokyo - New York, compare airport pair HND or NRT -> JFK or EWR and total trip cost before paying.
Japanese citizens traveling to the US need an ESTA ($21, valid 2 years) under the Visa Waiver Program. Apply online at least 72 hours before departure. If you have a criminal record or previous US visa denial, a B1/B2 visa interview at the US Embassy in Tokyo is required instead. Tokyo to New York fares move quickly, so flexible date checks usually save money.
Transpacific fares bottom out in January-February and late October-November, often around JPY 80,000-110,000 return. Cherry blossom season and Golden Week (late March to early May) drive Japan-side demand up, while US summer (June-August) increases the eastbound flow. Business class fare sales appear during ANA and JAL's annual promotions in January. For Tokyo - New York, review carrier mix (ANA, JAL, Delta, United) before choosing a fare bundle.
Haneda (HND) is 30 minutes from central Tokyo and far more convenient. Narita (NRT) is 60-80 minutes out. Both ANA and JAL fly from each, but Haneda departures command a slight fare premium for the convenience. Delta also serves Haneda-JFK.
No. Japan is part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Apply for an ESTA online ($21, valid 2 years) at least 72 hours before travel. ESTA covers tourist and short business trips up to 90 days.
Eastbound takes about 13 hours chasing the sun. The westbound return is 14-15 hours due to Pacific headwinds. Both ANA and JAL offer competitive business class products for the long crossing.
