On our most recent trip to Japan, we had the pleasure of flying with All Nippon Airways (ANA) in Business Class from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to Tokyo Haneda (HND). From start to finish, it was a smooth and enjoyable journey that truly captured the essence of Japanese hospitality.
Lounge Access – Comfort Before Takeoff
ANA provides access to excellent lounges at both airports. At Charles de Gaulle, the lounge is spacious, quiet, and well-stocked with food, drinks, and workspaces. Once we arrived in Tokyo Haneda, the ANA Lounge felt even more refined, modern Japanese design, great food, shower rooms, and a calm ambiance that’s ideal for relaxing after a long flight or during a layover.
Punctual, Efficient Boarding
Our flight departed exactly on time, and boarding was incredibly efficient. ANA’s ground staff were courteous and well-organized, making the experience seamless from the moment we stepped into the terminal.
Impeccable Service Onboard
One of the biggest highlights of flying ANA is the exceptional service. The cabin crew was extremely polite, attentive, and proactive, available at all times without being intrusive. Every small detail was handled with care, and you genuinely feel taken care of throughout the flight.
Fine Dining at 35,000 Feet
ANA’s Business Class menu is exceptional, offering both à la carte and set menu options. We highly recommend trying the Japanese meal, which showcases beautifully presented seasonal ingredients, fresh sashimi, and traditional accompaniments. The ANA signature Japanese noodles, available anytime during the flight, were a comforting and flavorful mid-flight treat.
For those preferring Western cuisine, the menu à la carte also includes well-crafted European-style dishes, complete with appetizers, mains, cheese, and desserts. The wine list and sake selection were carefully curated, with premium options available.
On our way back to Paris, we even had the privilege of flying over Greenland probably the most breathtaking sight we’ve ever seen. It was, without a doubt, the highlight of an already amazing flight.
In-Flight Comfort and Amenities
While the Boeing 787 Dreamliner used on this route is slightly older than some newer aircraft (such as Air France’s latest Airbus A350s), it’s still very comfortable. The Business Class cabin is clean, quiet, and well-designed for rest.
Each seat converts into a fully flat bed, and ANA provides a mattress topper, a duvet, and pajamas, which make a real difference on a long-haul flight. Noise levels in the cabin are low, and the overall environment feels private and peaceful, ideal for getting a few hours of quality sleep.
Final Thoughts
If you’re traveling to Japan and want to start your experience with the grace and precision of Japanese service, ANA Business Class is a fantastic choice. The combination of warm hospitality, gourmet meals, and thoughtful amenities makes the 13.5-hour journey genuinely enjoyable.
Our Verdict:
✔️ Exceptional crew
✔️ Excellent food (especially the Japanese set menu)
✔️ Great lounges and smooth operations
➖ Slightly dated cabin compared to newer aircraft, but still very comfortable
We would happily fly ANA again, and highly recommend it to anyone seeking a premium, culturally immersive way to travel to Japan.
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