London to Tokyo for under five hundred quid in December? Air China's got return flights from Gatwick at £492 per person, and they've actually thrown in the luggage allowance.
The deal
Return flights London Gatwick (LGW) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) from £492 per person. Departing December. Both directions route through Shanghai (PVG). You get two checked bags and hand luggage included — no nickel-and-diming on the essentials.
Why we like it
Tokyo in winter is genuinely decent: fewer crowds, lower humidity, and that crisp air that makes sightseeing less of a sweat-soaked ordeal. At this price point, you're looking at serious value for long-haul to Japan.
The Shanghai stopover adds a few hours each way, but if you're after the cheapest possible fare, that's how budget long-haul works. Two checked bags included means you're not starting your trip already out of pocket on excess baggage fees — that matters on a budget flight.
Main catch: Air China's on-time record is mixed, and the layover does eat into your day. Worth knowing before you commit.
How to book
Search the dates on Skyscanner and filter for Air China. Prices fluctuate, so snap it if you see the £492 still showing. Check the exact departure dates in December that match your plans — not all dates will hit that price.
📍 Explore Tokyo
Use the map to scope out neighbourhoods, transport links and walking distance to the highlights.
🎟️ Top things to do in Tokyo
Skip the queues with pre-booked tickets. Compare prices across GetYourGuide and Tiqets — both offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
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