Pro tips:
- Flying from Calgary to Tokyo Narita in business and then back in premium economy is a great compromise since the flight back to Calgary is 15% shorter due to tailwinds.
- Narita is not actually located in Tokyo, but in the neighbouring prefecture called Chiba. It takes about 1.5 hours to get from Narita to Shinjuku, Shibuya and the other major Tokyo hubs by train. Private transfers are highly recommended.
- Many smaller cities (London, Waterloo, Hamilton, Ottawa) fly to Calgary so this flight is a great option if you don’t have direct options like with Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal.
Important transfer note on the way back Canada: Your bags will transfer automatically, but be prepared to have to exit and go through security again. This is particularly important if you plan on getting duty free liquor to bring back to Canada.
Business Class
Seat:
Goes fully flat and everything in between with lower back arch support that can adjusted – all controlled via the touch screen.
Plenty of storage space and outlets for all your electronics.
Makeup mirror.
Large screen with lots of movies, TV shows and games.
Amenities:
Small travel pouch with lip balm, socks, eye cover and ear plugs.
Luxury meal and beverages.
Other:
Business class only bathroom.
Priority check-in, security, boarding and luggage.
Premium Economy
Pro tip: Book the front seat and bring a solid bag with you to put your feet on to allow you to stretch your legs fully. Combined with the seat recline it’s 80% to a business class seat!
Seat:
Reclines halfway to flat with an adjustable leg rest.
Small storage space and outlet for all your electronics.
Large screen with lots of movies, TV shows and games.
Amenities (same as business class):
Small travel pouch with lip balm, socks, eye cover and ear plugs.
Luxury meal and beverages.
Other (same as business class):
Premium economy class only bathroom.
Priority check-in, security, boarding and luggage.
Other Notes
Upon your return, do most of your shopping before security. The popular stores like Uniqlo, ABC, and Muji are all before security. Similarly, the food/meal options are better before security.
If you made any Japan Tax Free purchases, you are required to scan your passport at the Tax Free counter before going through the exit immigration kiosks (where you scan your passport again).
Don’t forget that Westjet allows you to purchase an economy seat and then bid on any empty Premium Economy and Business Class seats. Premium Economy bidding starts at $500 CAD and Business Class starts at $1,200 CAD.
Viator offers endless tour options throughout Tokyo and Japan.
