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Good timing. We just returned to the US from Tokyo last night. We fly Cathay Pacific because of a number of issues. One, they are among the best airlines in the world. Two, they have more liberal baggage allowances. Three, the are very good in each class of service. Following them, would be Singapore Airlines in terms of our selection. I would not fly an American carrier. Service is not even in the same league.
We try to arrive at night so that we can have a shower, eat lightly, have a massage and take a walk -- all of which help to recuperate from crossing the dateline -- and go to bed on local time. You feel out of sorts and like you are on some other planet when you arrive. I'll make other suggestions below.
If you are flying to Tokyo -- NARITA -- it will take you 90 minutes by fast train just to get to the city. Since I have no way of knowing where you are staying, I have no idea how long it will take you to get to your hotel from the local train station.
Yes. In flight entertainment and maybe three meals are provided. Class of service determines the quality of both.
Two adults can buy two economy class tickets for around US$2,000 total. That's about it. You might be able to buy premium economy seats for a little more. First class costs around US$10,000 per seat. Give or take, and depending on season. But, you can sleep on your back and ride in what some people describe as an egg shell
pr pod.
Here's what I would do. First, pack as lightly as you can depending on season. Second, for the week or so before you go stop drinking caffeinated drinks. About two or three days before your trip start hydrating. No matter what time of day you fly the trip is long and feels long. Ask your doctor for a sleeping pill to help you sleep onboard and for the first couple of days on the ground. Remember, you are going to be upside down in time. Try to get about six hours of sleep onboard. When you are in Japan, you will hit a wall at around 3pm their time because your brain thinks it's 5am your time. Take about a 45 minute nap. Set a clock. You don't want to sleep longer than that because you won't sleep at night. More... Japanese people are friendly,shy and kind. But, the rarely speak English. If you show them your train ticket from NARITA into Tokyo, likely the won't say much but they will take you to the train and guide you to your seats.
Is that enough? You are welcome to pm me if you'd like. Oh yeah. Fly from Chicago if you take Cathay. I think there is a direct flight to Tokyo. Flying time should be around 12 - 14 hours from Chicago.