✈️ Flight Guide: Los Angeles (LAX) → Tokyo (NRT)

November is peak season for autumn foliage (koyo) across Tokyo and nearby regions such as Nikko and Hakone, making it a top travel time for scenic day trips from Narita International Airport (NRT). Key events include Culture Day (Nov 3) and Labor Thanksgiving Day (Nov 23), plus popular festivals like the Tori-no-Ichi fairs in late November. In Los Angeles, November includes large-scale events such as the LA Auto Show (typically November) and American Thanksgiving gatherings, which can impact outbound airport congestion. Plan ahead: reserve train seats for popular leaf-viewing routes and book hotels early for festival weekends.

Early to mid-November is generally the best time to fly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT) for favorable weather, autumn foliage, and moderate fares. Avoid the U.S. Thanksgiving period (late November) when demand and prices rise sharply. Fly mid-week for lower costs and smaller crowds, and choose red-eye flights to align arrival with daytime activities in Tokyo. Book 6–8 weeks ahead for best combinations of price and seat availability.

Tips

• Book early November travel well in advance to catch koyo (autumn leaves) but avoid Thanksgiving price spikes.
• Opt for Tuesday–Thursday departures for lower fares.
• Use flexible-date search tools to compare entire months for cheapest travel windows.

Direct nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT) save time (about 11–12.5 hours) and reduce the complexity of transfers, making them ideal for business travelers and those wanting minimal disruption. Connecting flights—via hubs like Seoul Incheon (ICN), Taipei (TPE), or other U.S. cities—can lower costs and open up more flexible schedules, but may add 3–8+ hours of travel time including layovers. For November travel, consider if cost savings are worth the additional travel time, especially around Thanksgiving when connections can introduce missed-connection risk.

ANA and Japan Airlines (JAL) typically offer the strongest Japan-focused service on Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT), including Japanese cuisine options and excellent onboard amenities in economy and premium cabins. U.S. legacy carriers—Delta, American, and United—compete with frequent flights, competitive prices, and broad network connections for domestic U.S. origins. For November travel, compare all-in fares (bag fees, seat selection) and loyalty benefits like lounge access. Premium economy and business class on ANA/JAL often deliver superior sleep-friendly seats for long-haul overnight travel.

Pack layers for cool days and chilly nights—light sweaters, a medium jacket, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for Narita and Tokyo in November. Stay hydrated and try to shift your sleep schedule a day before departure to reduce jet lag on the approximately 11–12 hour flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Purchase travel insurance that covers schedule disruptions around U.S. Thanksgiving and Japanese public holidays, and consider reserving seats on Narita Express trains to guarantee a smooth transfer into Tokyo. Keep copies of important documents and a portable battery pack for long travel days.

Typical nonstop flight time from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT) is approximately 11 to 12.5 hours depending on winds and routing. Return flights (NRT → LAX) often take 10 to 11.5 hours due to prevailing tailwinds. In November, after U.S. daylight saving ends, the time difference is Tokyo (JST) 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles (PST). Major nonstop carriers operating this route include All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines (JAL), American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Flights operate daily on many carriers, with multiple late-afternoon and late-evening departures from Los Angeles and morning arrivals into Tokyo.

To find cheap flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Narita International Airport (NRT) in November, search 6–8 weeks ahead and remain flexible with travel dates, avoiding U.S. Thanksgiving weekend (late November) when fares spike. Use fare comparison tools, set price alerts, and check both nonstop and one-stop itineraries via Asian hubs (ICN, TPE) for savings. Consider flying mid-week, booking red-eye LAX departures to Tokyo, and subscribing to airline newsletters for flash sales. Nearby departure airports like Hollywood Burbank and Ontario can occasionally offer lower fares; always compare total travel time and transfer costs.

Tips

• Set fare alerts on at least two platforms (e.g., Google Flights and Skyscanner).
• Check both nonstop and connecting routes; one-stop via Seoul (ICN) or Taipei (TPE) can be cheaper.
• Avoid booking travel on peak U.S. Thanksgiving dates to reduce cost.
• Use airline miles or credit card points to offset November fares.