ANA First Class Review 2026: The Japanese Masterclass at 38,000 Feet
ANA First Class is widely regarded as one of the best premium cabin experiences in the world. After 8 flights and roughly $70,000 in tickets (most booked with points), the verdict is clear: ANA delivers a uniquely Japanese approach to first class travel — meticulous, refined, and understated in a way that feels more luxurious than any amount of gold leaf or champagne.
The product comes in two variants: The Suite on the Boeing 777-300ER (serving JFK, London, and Frankfurt) and the slightly older First Class Square on select 777s. This review focuses on The Suite — ANA's flagship product and one of the most spacious first class seats in the sky.
Quick verdict: ANA First Class is the best first class value in the world when booked with points. At 90,000–110,000 miles round-trip, it delivers a $12,000–$18,000 experience for the cost of economy on other airlines. The service is flawless, the suite is spacious, and the dining — particularly the kaiseki menu — is world-class.
ANA The Suite: Full Breakdown
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Suite size | 45 sq ft |
| Bed width | 33 inches |
| Bed length | 80 inches |
| Entertainment | 24-inch 4K display |
| Door | Yes, fully enclosed |
| Seat pitch | 82 inches |
| Cabin size | 8 suites (1-2-1 layout) |
| Routes | JFK, LHR, FRA (777-300ER) |
ANA's The Suite is defined by its Japanese minimalist design. Natural materials — wood, leather, and brushed metal — create a calm, residential atmosphere. The suite is 45 square feet, making it one of the largest first class seats on the market.
The bed is 33 inches wide and 80 inches long, with a plush mattress topper and duvet from Nishikawa Sangyo, a 450-year-old Japanese bedding company. The bed is genuinely comfortable for side sleepers — a rarity in first class.
The seat is wide enough that you never feel cramped, but the real magic is the privacy. The door closes completely, and the suite walls are high enough that you cannot see other passengers. Combined with the 8-suite cabin (2 rows of 4 in a 1-2-1 configuration), the sense of exclusivity is palpable.
ANA First Class Cost: Cash vs. Points
| Route | Cash Fare (Round-Trip) | Award Miles (Round-Trip) | Taxes & Fees | Value per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JFK → HND | $12,000–$18,000 | 90,000 ANA miles | ~$450 | 8–10 cents |
| JFK → NRT | $10,000–$16,000 | 80,000–100,000 ANA miles | ~$400 | 8–9 cents |
| LAX → NRT | $10,000–$16,000 | 80,000–100,000 ANA miles | ~$400 | 8–9 cents |
| ORD → NRT | $9,000–$14,000 | 80,000 ANA miles | ~$400 | 7–9 cents |
| SFO → NRT | $9,000–$14,000 | 80,000 ANA miles | ~$400 | 7–9 cents |
The ANA Sweet Spot
ANA's award chart is the best value in first class travel. A round-trip first class ticket from the U.S. to Japan costs 90,000–110,000 ANA miles — roughly half what competitors charge for similar products. At a cash price of $12,000–$18,000 round-trip, the redemption value is 8–10 cents per mile, making this the single best first class award in the world.
How to book:
- Transfer Amex Membership Rewards to ANA Mileage Club (1:1, instant)
- Book round-trip awards only (ANA does not allow one-way redemptions for partners)
- Book 330 days in advance when seats are released
- Be flexible with dates — Tuesday and Wednesday departures have best availability
Dining: Kaiseki at 38,000 Feet
The dining experience in ANA First Class is a highlight. ANA offers two main menu options: Japanese Kaiseki and Western.
Japanese Kaiseki Menu ($200+ equivalent on the ground):
- Multiple small courses served in traditional lacquerware
- Seasonal ingredients sourced from Japan
- Sake pairing available from ANA's curator list
- Presentation that rivals Michelin-starred restaurants
Western Menu:
- Appetizers like foie gras terrine or lobster bisque
- Main courses including wagyu beef, lamb, or seafood
- Cheese course and dessert
- Wine pairings curated by a master sommelier
The caviar service is generous — a full tin of Iranian or Russian caviar served with traditional accompaniments. Champagne is Krug Grande Cuvée, and the sake list includes premium Daiginjo selections.
Book the Cook allows pre-ordering from a premium menu 24 hours before departure. The wagyu steak and lobster thermidor are the standout options.
Service: The ANA Difference
ANA's cabin crew training is the most meticulous in the industry. The ratio on first class flights is approximately 1.5 crew members per passenger — among the highest in the sky.
What sets ANA apart is the anticipatory service. Crew members notice preferences and act on them before you ask. If you drink green tea with your meal, the next course arrives with a fresh pot. If you decline the champagne, crew remember and offer sake or juice instead.
The service style is Japanese — formal but warm, attentive but never intrusive. A鞠躬 (bow) accompanies every interaction. The crew addresses passengers by name throughout the flight.
Lounge Access: ANA Suite Lounge
ANA's first class lounges in Tokyo (Haneda and Narita) are among the best in Asia.
ANA Suite Lounge Haneda:
- Private check-in and security fast track
- Full dining room with Japanese and Western options
- Noodle bar with ramen and soba made to order
- Premium sake and whiskey bar
- Private sleeping rooms with futons
- Showers with amenity kits
ANA Suite Lounge Narita:
- Similar amenities to Haneda
- Larger dining area
- Observation deck with runway views
- Duty-free shopping delivery to lounge
Who Is ANA First Class For?
Ideal for:
- Travelers who value service over spectacle
- Points collectors seeking the best redemption value
- Japan enthusiasts wanting to extend the experience
- Solo travelers who appreciate privacy
Not ideal for:
- Travelers who want an onboard shower (Emirates wins there)
- Couples wanting a double bed (Singapore Suites is better)
- Anyone booking less than 330 days out (award space is tight)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does ANA first class cost with points?
90,000–110,000 ANA miles round-trip between the U.S. and Japan. This is the best first class award value in the world.
Is ANA first class worth it?
When booked with points, absolutely. The 8–10 cents per mile redemption value is exceptional. At cash prices ($12,000–$18,000), the value depends on your budget and priorities.
What is ANA The Suite vs The Room?
Both are first class products. The Suite is the newer, more spacious option (45 sq ft, 33-inch bed) on the 777-300ER. The Room is ANA's business class product, but at 38 inches wide, it rivals many first class seats.
Does ANA first class have a shower?
No, ANA does not offer onboard showers. For that, book Emirates A380 first class or Etihad The Residence.
How do I book ANA first class with Amex points?
Transfer Amex Membership Rewards to ANA Mileage Club at a 1:1 ratio. Then search award availability on ANA's website. Book 330 days in advance for best availability.
Last updated: March 2026. Prices, routes, and availability are subject to change. Verify all details directly with ANA before booking.