This fare prices at 110,000 United MileagePlus miles for a one-way business class ticket from San Francisco (SFO) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) on May 3, 2026. The taxes and fees come in at just $6, making this a clean redemption with minimal out-of-pocket cost.
For context, United business class awards to Tokyo typically run around 140,000 miles each way on this route. That puts this availability at roughly 30,000 miles below the going rate—a meaningful savings if you've been eyeing a trip to Japan next spring.
A word of caution: there are only 2 seats showing at this price. If you're traveling as a family or group, this won't cover everyone, but it could work well for a couple or a parent-child trip. Award space to Japan in premium cabins tends to disappear quickly, so don't wait too long if this fits your plans.
One practical tip: May is a lovely time to visit Japan, falling just after Golden Week (which ends May 6). Flying on May 3 means you'll arrive during the tail end of the holiday period, so expect some domestic crowds, but the weather should be pleasant and spring foliage will still be in good form.
How to book
Search and book directly through United at united.com/en/us/book-flight/united-awards/search. Log into your MileagePlus account, select "Book with miles," and enter your travel dates to pull up availability.