This award is pricing at about 3% below the usual 50,000-mile rate you'd expect to pay for this route through Aeroplan. While not a deep discount, the real value here is the wide-open availability during peak summer travel season, which can be hard to come by for Japan-bound flights in August.

Aeroplan miles transfer from American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One, and Chase Ultimate Rewards (through the Chase Aeroplan card), giving you several ways to piece together this booking. Transfer times are typically instant from Amex and can take a day or two from other programs.

For families planning a summer trip to Japan, locking in award seats this far out is a smart move. August falls during school vacation for most districts, and Tokyo availability at standard rates tends to disappear as the travel date approaches.

One practical tip: Check whether the itinerary routes through a Canadian hub like Vancouver or Toronto. Connection times and layover lengths can vary significantly, so compare a few date options if your schedule is flexible.

How to book

Search and book directly through Aeroplan at aircanada.com.