If you’re yet to experience the otherworldly journey to Japan, perhaps 2024 is the year that changes.
From the futuristic tech that seeps its way into everyday life to the seemingly unlimited variety of cuisine, every city in Japan offers up something that will make you pause and think, ‘Why don’t I live here?’
The sheer efficiency of public transport in Japan alone should be enough to entice you to finally take the leap and book that trip, and if you want to shave the travel budget down into bite-sized payments, the key is to consult our partners at Qantas and Zip.
Throughout the year, Qantas is offering flights from the East Coast to Tokyo that can be booked using Zip—for every $3 spent, you’ll also nab an extra Qantas Point* to add to the piggy bank. Just book an eligible flight departing from Australia at qantas.com and checkout with Zip to earn 1 Qantas Point for every A$3 spent.
What's even better is if you have earned Zip points through Zip's own rewards program, you can transfer them to Qantas Frequent Flyer points once you reach your Zip Rewards Goal^—meaning more points for your next flight.
The Ins And Outs
With the help of Zip you can break that total amount into monthly payments over six months—interest-free*. If you’re planning your trip over six months in advance, the entire flight will still be paid off by the time you head to the airport, without having to part ways with a large chunk of money in one fell swoop.
If you’re new to Zip, signing up for an account (using this link) will give you access to a bonus 3000 Qantas Frequent Flyer points, so you can store those away for your inevitable return to Japan (or somewhere else in the world that tickles your fancy). All you have to do is link your QFF number in the Zip app and complete your first purchase within 90 days of activation*. Easy as.
Japan Flights From The East Coast
Sydney To Tokyo
Depending on the time of year you’d like to kick off your Tokyo-based tour, return flights from Sydney to Tokyo are currently available here*.
To make the most of your time in Japan, hop on the train from Tokyo and venture outside the capital city to witness Mount Fuji—it’s truly ten times more impressive in person than what you’ve likely seen in movies.
Alternatively, you can spend your entire trip in Tokyo to only scratch the surface. Embark on an eatery tour and scour the very best restaurants the city has to offer. A pitstop at Menya Itto will bring you face-to-face with the most scrumptious ramen you may ever try.
Brisbane To Tokyo
Japan during spring—also known as peak cherry blossom season, is as close to inner peace as you’ll get, as the country comes to life with vibrant flowers lining footpaths and parks. For a true Kodak moment, head to Nara Park from either Osaka or Kyoto and frolic among the deer and cherry blossoms like you’re living out a fairytale in real time.
Melbourne To Tokyo
The most opportune time to visit Tokyo from Melbourne falls in late May, with return flights available here*.
Flying to Japan on the brink of summer opens up doors for those balmy Japan activities. Attend the famous Sumida River Fireworks Festival in Tokyo—one of countless summer festivals that take place—and dive headfirst into the culture by borrowing or hiring a traditional kimono worn by a majority of attendees at these events.
As always, make sure you’re appreciating the culture and recognising the significance of the attire and celebrations.
So, now that the travel itinerary is sorted and you can lean on Qantas and Zip to guide you through the booking process, Japan awaits. More on how to fly now and pay later with Qantas and Zip here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Qantas and Zip and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
*Please note: Flight prices may fluctuate due to timings and departure destinations. To check prices, please head here. Zip Pay and Zip Money is available for bookings made online at qantas.com where you see the Zip logo. A 1.5% Qantas payment fee applies, capped at a maximum per passenger of A$22 for Australian domestic or A$120 for international itineraries. Eligible purchases include domestic or international flights departing from Australia and excludes round the world itineraries, flight vouchers or non-flight products and services or where carbon offset and travel insurance is included in the booking. Earn 1 Qantas Point for every $3 spent on eligible purchases at qantas.com when you link your Qantas Frequent Flyer membership number in the Zip app and check out with your Zip account. Qantas Points will be applied to your QFF account within 14 days of completion of purchase. Exclusions and terms and conditions apply. Qantas FFP are redeemable when you reach the Rewards Goal. Rewards Program T&Cs and Zip Rewards QFF Offer T&Cs apply. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn Qantas Points. If you are not a Qantas Frequent Flyer member, join for free. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available at qantas.com/terms.^Redeemable when you reach the Rewards Goal. Rewards Program T&Cs and Zip Rewards QFF Offer T&Cs apply. *Term only available for purchases of $1 or more. Available for approved applicants only and subject to completion of satisfactory credit check. Minimum monthly repayments are required. Paying only the minimum monthly repayment amount will generally not repay the purchase within the interest free period. Any balance outstanding at the expiry of the interest free period will be charged at the standard variable interest rate, 25.9% per annum, as at 1 June 2023. A monthly account fee of $9.95 applies and a one-off establishment fee may apply for new customers. Other charges may be payable, see T&Cs. Interest, fees and charges are subject to change. Terms & Conditions apply and are available on application. See your contract for further details. Credit provided by ZipMoney Payments Pty Ltd (ABN 58 164 440 993), Australian Credit Licence Number 441878).
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