Los Angeles (LAX) to Tokyo (NRT) is about 5,440 miles and typically takes 11 h 05 min by air. It is an international route, so check passport and entry rules. Airlines with hubs at both ends are the likeliest to offer nonstops; otherwise expect a connection. Call (800) 490-3234 for live fares.
LAX to NRT at a glance
| Route | Los Angeles (LAX) to Tokyo (NRT) |
|---|---|
| Distance | about 5,440 miles / 8,750 km |
| Typical flight time | 11 h 05 min (estimate) |
| Time difference | 17 hours ahead |
| Route type | International |
| Airlines with hubs here | American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines |
About the Los Angeles to Tokyo route
Flying from Los Angeles to Tokyo is a long-haul journey that most travelers do in a single overnight or daytime push. Because it is international, check travel documents first, then compare itineraries.
Flight time and distance
A typical flight takes about 11 h 05 min gate to gate, with a realistic range of 10 h 50 min to 11 h 35 min depending on wind, routing and aircraft. That is an estimate based on the distance of roughly 5,440 miles (8,750 km), not a published schedule.
Tokyo is 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles on standard time, so the arrival time on your ticket will look different from the flight duration.
Among the 200 routes in our guides, LAX to NRT is longer than about 88% of them.
For comparison, Los Angeles to London (LAX to LHR) is about 5,440 miles, so Tokyo is about the same distance out from LAX.
The airports
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is the West Coast's largest gateway, with heavy service to Asia, Australia, Latin America and every major U.S. market. Full LAX guide.
Narita International Airport (NRT)
Narita is one of Tokyo's two main airports and serves many airlines from North America. Full NRT guide.
Other airports are worth a look: around Los Angeles, Hollywood Burbank and San Diego (SAN); and around Tokyo, Haneda. Comparing them can change the price or the travel time to your final destination.
Airlines on this route
No single carrier we cover has hubs at both LAX and NRT. American Airlines (at LAX), Delta Air Lines (at LAX), United Airlines (at LAX), and Alaska Airlines (at LAX) each operate a large network at one end, so many itineraries on this route connect rather than fly nonstop.
Airlines add and drop frequencies throughout the year. Our agents can check what is actually scheduled on your dates.
Common connection points
If you choose a one-stop itinerary, likely routings include Delta Air Lines via Seattle (SEA), which adds about 270 miles (5% beyond the direct distance) or American Airlines via Phoenix (PHX), which adds about 680 miles (13% beyond the direct distance). Choose the connection with the best weather odds for your travel month and leave a comfortable layover; our layover guide explains how much time is realistic.
Best time to fly
For this trip, keep in mind that at NRT, cherry blossom season in late March and early April and autumn foliage are the busiest times. At LAX, marine-layer fog can slow early-morning operations from late spring through summer.
Ground transport
Getting to and from LAX
Rideshare pickup happens at the LAX-it lot outside the terminal loop, and a shuttle connects to the Metro rail network; road traffic on the 405 and 105 can be unpredictable.
Getting to and from NRT
The Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner trains reach central Tokyo in roughly 40 to 60 minutes.
Booking tips
Long international tickets are more sensitive to changes than domestic ones, so read the fare rules on baggage and changes before you pay. Start with our international flight checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo?
A typical LAX to NRT flight takes about 11 h 05 min, with a likely range of 10 h 50 min to 11 h 35 min. Actual time depends on wind, routing, aircraft and whether you connect.
How far is Tokyo from Los Angeles by air?
The great-circle distance between LAX and NRT is about 5,440 miles (8,750 km).
Which airlines fly from Los Angeles to Tokyo?
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines have a major presence at LAX or NRT, and service varies by season. Ask us to check current nonstop and connecting options.
What is the time difference between Los Angeles and Tokyo?
Tokyo is 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles on standard time. Daylight saving time can change the gap for part of the year.
Do I need a passport to fly from Los Angeles to Tokyo?
Yes, international flights require a valid passport, and Japan may have additional entry or visa rules. Check the official government site before booking.
When is the best time to book LAX to NRT?
Domestic fares are often competitive one to three months ahead, while international trips benefit from more lead time. Compare several dates, since fares are priced flight by flight.
Explore related routes
More flights involving Los Angeles (LAX)
- Anchorage to Los AngelesANC to LAX
- Austin to Los AngelesAUS to LAX
- Boston to Los AngelesBOS to LAX
- Charlotte to Los AngelesCLT to LAX
- Cleveland to Los AngelesCLE to LAX
- Detroit to Los AngelesDTW to LAX
More flights involving Tokyo (NRT)
Last reviewed October 22, 2026. FlighTicketHub provides general information; confirm details with the airline before you travel.