Timeless Luxury: Japan Airlines 777 First Class
Greetings from Tokyo! We’ve kicked off our winter ski trip to Val Seny in style. How? By hopping across the Pacific in Japan Airlines’ Boeing 777-300ER first class from San Francisco to Tokyo. Yes, that’s right, just a brief 10-hour and 25-minute jaunt over an ocean.
In a stroke of pure genius (or luck), we snagged four first class award seats on this flight. Traveling with friends? Absolute game changer. Think Korean Air’s A380 first class wouldn’t be enjoyable with a group? Think again. 😉
If you’re wondering about my obsession with Japan Airlines’ first class, let me count the ways: top-tier Japanese cuisine, an endless drink list, and the famously warm Japanese service. Sure, these planes are edging towards their golden years, but hey, who isn’t partial to a bit of nostalgia? Let’s acknowledge that flying the spanking new Japan Airlines A350 makes the 777 feel like a throwback. But even so, this flight was a delight.
So let’s dive into what makes this experience tick. Keep an eye out for my upcoming detailed trip report, too.
Japan Airlines’ 777 First Class Seats
Cozy but perhaps clinging to days gone by, Japan Airlines’ first class on the 777 features eight seats in a 1-2-1 layout. Now, these aren’t the posh suites with doors you might find elsewhere, but they offer privacy and a solid design that gets the job done.
While the wear and tear is clear—and let’s kindly call the cabin finishes “vintage”—the sleep experience here is next-level thanks to that Tempur-Pedic mattress pad. Fancy it firm or soft? Your choice. Just make sure they keep the cabin’s temperature Goldilocks-perfect, and you’ll be counting sheep in no time.
However, the entertainment system is, let’s say, not the showstopper here. It’s like watching the classics on a black-and-white TV, with a fiddly interface to boot.
Gastronomy and Libations in the Sky
Japan Airlines’ catering is nothing short of feasting at a high-end Tokyo restaurant. Lunch kicks off post-takeoff with the Oscar Briggs of caviar—accompanied by a Japanese meal ensemble that was a hit parade for my taste buds.
The starter lineup? A medley of five small plates, including conger eel and simmered abalone. Then there was a symphony of flavors with rice cracker-coated lobster soup, and roast beef paired with sesame sauce. Follow that with steamed delicacies like sea bream and silken tofu. To cap it off? Matcha anmitsu. Obviously.
Worry not, carnivores and cheese-inclined. The Western menu is drool-worthy as well. And for you wine enthusiasts, here’s what’s on offer: Billecart Salmon Elisabeth Rose 2012. True, we didn’t get the extravagant Salon 2013, but who’s complaining?
And if you’re lucky to land a spot on these flights, try the exclusive Hibiki whisky blend. Even non-drinkers can sip in style with Royal Blue Tea, elevating non-alcoholic prestige to new heights.
Top-Tier Amenities
Japan Airlines showers first-class passengers with amenities. From snuggly pajamas to essential slippers, they’ve got you covered. The amenity kit is your sky-high survival kit, complete with USB chargers and primo Shiseido face cleanser.
Anyone with a penchant for organization will adore the leather binder housing your menu, Wi-Fi code, immigration card, and even a slick pen. And the steam eye mask? A revelation. If you’re as hooked as I am, ask the crew for extras to stash away for future blissful slumbers.
The Social Aspect: Flying with Amigos
Sure, first class flying solo is thrilling, and as a duo, delightful. But as a group? Stratospheric levels of fun. We occupied the entire first row, turning the center suites into our private hangout. It was epic, albeit slightly rambunctious. Here’s to good food, stellar drinks, and even better company. Sleep can wait!
Final Thoughts
Flying Japan Airlines’ 777 first class remains a delightful throwback. Cozy confines, impeccable service, glorious cuisine, and top-tier drinks make for an iconic experience. Even as these beauties head towards retirement, they’re a testament to unparalleled sky-high elegance.
Take a page out of my playbook: redeem those American AAdvantage miles and soar in style. Snagging four award seats on one flight? Pure gold. Embrace it, cherish it, and, most importantly, enjoy it.