Route guide
Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 5,480 mi
- Typical flight time
- 11 h – 12 h
- Airports
- 5 × 2
- Time difference
- 16–17 h ahead
This page covers the practical side of flying between Los Angeles and Tokyo: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.
Airport pairs to compare
Los Angeles spreads across a vast basin, so the best airport depends on where you are staying. LAX is the main gateway, but several smaller airports sit within driving distance. Tokyo has two main airports: Haneda is close to the city center, and Narita is farther out but well connected by train.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| LAX to HND | Los Angeles International | Haneda |
| LAX to NRT | Los Angeles International | Narita International |
| BUR to HND | Hollywood Burbank | Haneda |
| BUR to NRT | Hollywood Burbank | Narita International |
| SNA to HND | John Wayne (Orange County) | Haneda |
| SNA to NRT | John Wayne (Orange County) | Narita International |
| LGB to HND | Long Beach | Haneda |
| LGB to NRT | Long Beach | Narita International |
| ONT to HND | Ontario International | Haneda |
| ONT to NRT | Ontario International | Narita International |
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Los Angeles: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines
Airlines with a base at one end often connect through their hub. A specialist can compare nonstop and connecting options on your dates.
When to go and what to expect
Los Angeles
Spring and fall are comfortable. May and June often bring a coastal marine layer of morning cloud, and summer is a busy season.
Tokyo
Late March to early April is the peak cherry blossom season, and autumn is also popular. Golden Week in late April and early May is very busy, and summer is hot and humid.
International trip: you will need a valid passport, and possibly a visa or entry authorization. Our international checklist covers what to check.
Getting between the airport and town
Los Angeles: Freeway traffic can turn a short distance into a long trip at rush hour, so allow generous time between the airport and your destination.
Tokyo: Rail and airport limousine buses link both airports to the city.
Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.
Good to know
- If you are flexible about airports, ask for prices into more than one of them. Fares and schedules can differ noticeably.
- A valid passport is required. Japan's entry rules depend on your citizenship and trip length, so check the official guidance.
- Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Los Angeles from Tokyo?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 5,480 miles (8,810 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 11 h to 12 h in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.
Which airports can I use?
At Los Angeles: LAX (Los Angeles International), BUR (Hollywood Burbank), SNA (John Wayne (Orange County)), LGB (Long Beach), ONT (Ontario International). At Tokyo: HND (Haneda), NRT (Narita International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.
Is there a time difference?
In winter, Tokyo is 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles; in summer, Tokyo is 16 hours ahead of Los Angeles. The gap changes because of daylight saving time.
Do you show fares on this page?
No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.
What documents do I need?
A valid passport is required. Entry rules depend on your citizenship, so check the official guidance for the destination. See our international checklist.