Japan is the holy grail of points travel. The combination of world-class airline products (ANA First Class), excellent hotel redemptions (Park Hyatt Tokyo, Andaz Tokyo), and genuinely unique cultural experiences makes it the most rewarding destination for points enthusiasts. The question is not whether to go -- it is when and how.
When to Visit Japan
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds | Award Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry Blossom | Late March - Mid April | Mild (50-65F) | Very High | Extremely limited -- book 330 days out |
| Golden Week | Late April - Early May | Warm (60-75F) | Peak (domestic holiday) | Almost none -- avoid if possible |
| Summer | June - August | Hot, humid (80-90F) | Moderate | Good -- best for finding first class |
| Autumn Foliage | October - November | Cool (50-65F) | High | Moderate -- book 6+ months out |
| Winter | December - February | Cold (35-50F) | Low (except NYE) | Excellent -- easiest award availability |
Getting There: The ANA First Class Sweet Spot
The single best award redemption in travel: ANA First Class from the US to Japan via Virgin Atlantic miles.
- One-way: 55,000-75,000 Virgin Atlantic miles + approx $200 in taxes
- Round trip: 110,000-120,000 Virgin Atlantic miles
- Cash price: $10,000-$25,000 per person
- Value: 10-20 cents per point
Transfer from Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards to Virgin Atlantic at 1:1. The key: search for availability on ANA website first, then call Virgin Atlantic to book. ANA releases first class seats at exactly 355 days before departure.
Chase Sapphire Preferred — 60,000-point welcome bonus
Spend $4k/3mo. Transfer 1:1 to United, Hyatt, Virgin Atlantic.
Where to Stay on Points
Tokyo
- Park Hyatt Tokyo: 25,000 Hyatt points/night ($600-800 value). The Lost in Translation hotel.
- Andaz Tokyo: 20,000 Hyatt points/night ($400-600 value). Modern design hotel in Toranomon.
- Conrad Tokyo: 60,000-80,000 Hilton points/night. Bay views and excellent breakfast.
Kyoto
- Park Hyatt Kyoto: 30,000 Hyatt points/night ($800-1,200 value). Stunning temple district location.
- Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: 60,000-70,000 Marriott points/night. River views and onsen.
Osaka
- Hyatt Regency Osaka: 12,000 Hyatt points/night ($150-200 value). Great base for street food exploration.
Search for ANA First Class availability on Pointify Search. We check ANA award space daily and alert you the moment seats open on your preferred dates.
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