An Encounter with the Flying Honu: A Special Journey Begins in ANA Business Class
On an August afternoon, with the faintest hint of summer’s end in the air, I found myself amidst the familiar hustle of Narita International Airport. My destination: the perpetual paradise of Hawaii. This annual pilgrimage is something of a ritual for me, a way to disconnect and recalibrate. This year, however, felt different. My steps toward the airport were lighter, my heart thrumming with an uncontainable excitement. The reason? This flight was more than just transportation. My companion across the Pacific would be the world’s largest passenger aircraft, ANA’s specially painted Airbus A380, the “FLYING HONU.” Specifically, it was the third in the fleet, “La,” gleaming in sunset orange, awaiting my arrival.
As a digital marketer, my world is one of numbers and logic. Travel, for me, is the essential antidote—a time to sharpen my senses. I walk the streets, feel the air on my skin, and immerse myself in local culture. The stories I share on Photomo are fragments of these very experiences. And that experience, I’ve learned, truly begins the moment you step into the airport. A late-night departure, like this one to Hawaii, sets the most perfect prologue.
I arrived as the check-in counters opened, dropped my bags, and, feeling unburdened, made a beeline for the ANA Lounge. On morning flights to Europe, lounge time can feel rushed. But a night flight offers the luxury of time. It’s a chance to savor the prelude, to contemplate the seven-hour journey ahead and the Hawaiian days that await. Before my official meeting with “La,” a proper warm-up on the ground was in order.
The Art of the Start: An ANA Business Class Lounge Experience at Narita
Ascending the escalator, I entered a realm of tranquility. The “ANA LOUNGE” sign ahead was an invitation to unwind. Beside it, a tall placard listed the Star Alliance Gold partners, a quiet testament to the quality within.
My first ritual upon entering is always to check the availability of the shower rooms. For me, a pre-flight shower, especially before a long haul to a resort destination, is non-negotiable. It’s a personal code for starting a trip refreshed. I inquired at the reception desk and, luckily, there was an opening. I smartly booked a slot timed just before boarding. A pro-tip for fellow travelers: if it’s a busy season, make this your absolute first priority upon arrival. This small step pays huge dividends in comfort.
The NRT ANA Lounge Shower: A Pre-Flight Essential
At my appointed time, I made my way to the shower suite. The space was modern and immaculate, clad in cool grey tiles, instantly calming my pre-travel excitement. It was compact yet functional, a showcase of Japanese efficiency. All the necessary amenities were provided, making it wonderfully convenient.
Under the warm water, I mentally mapped out my flight plan. I’d watch one movie, enjoy dinner, and then sleep. This strategy would allow me to hit the ground running in Hawaii. It’s a pleasant sort of game, this mental simulation. Fully refreshed and changed, I re-emerged into the soft buzz of the lounge, perfectly prepared for the journey ahead.
Lounge Cuisine: The Holy Trinity of Curry, Beer, and Udon
Post-shower, another delight awaited: the lounge dining. Now, I must be honest. For curry alone, I might give a slight edge to the JAL lounge. Yet, the ANA curry has its own distinct charm, enhanced by the best spice of all—anticipation.
Of course, curry requires a partner. I headed to the automated beer dispenser, a marvel that pours a perfect pint with a flawless head every time. Watching the amber liquid fill the glass is a moment of pure bliss. The pairing of spicy curry and crisp, cold beer is an undisputed classic, a combination I might argue is worth the lounge access alone.
Furthermore, one must indulge in the noodle bar, a signature of Japanese airline lounges. Before heading abroad, I always crave the comforting flavor of dashi. Tonight, I chose the kakiage udon (tempura udon). The steam rising from the bowl, carrying the fragrant aroma of the broth, awakens a deep-seated part of my soul. The silky noodles and the crispy tempura, soaking up the savory soup, gently settled my stomach. It was the perfect, soulful finale to my lounge feast.
With my lounge rituals complete, a glance at my watch confirmed it was time. The moment to meet the Flying Honu had arrived.
Riding the Sky Turtle: My ANA Flying Honu Review in Business Class
As I approached the gate, I saw her. Through the massive glass panes sat the giant, resplendent in a vibrant orange reminiscent of a Hawaiian sunset. On her nose, a charming, friendly eye. Her name, “La,” means “sun” in Hawaiian, and she radiated a warmth that matched her name. The sheer scale of the double-decker aircraft was awe-inspiring. I was about to ride this magnificent sky turtle across the Pacific, and my excitement was palpable.
The Seat: A Private Sanctuary on the ANA Narita to Honolulu Flight Experience
I boarded with the priority group and ascended to the upper deck. The ANA business class cabin was a sophisticated space, decorated in calming shades of navy blue. My seat for the flight was 8G. ANA’s business class features a staggered seat configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for every passenger. A privacy divider separates the seats, creating a personal cocoon. While some seats are designed for pairs, my single pod was perfectly secluded, ideal for a solo traveler like myself.
Settling in, I was immediately impressed by the thoughtful design. The large side table had ample room for my hat, water bottle, and other small items. The lie-flat seat, large entertainment screen, and multiple storage compartments spoke to a commitment to passenger comfort. A pillow, blanket, and amenity kit were already waiting, promising a restful journey.
The ANA Business Class Meal NRT to HNL: A Restaurant in the Sky
Once we reached cruising altitude, it was time for the much-anticipated dinner service. I opted for the Japanese meal (washoku). For me, flying a Japanese carrier is an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of their culinary art. The dishes arrived on a black lacquer tray, each presented in beautiful, delicate pottery. It felt less like an in-flight meal and more like a dining experience at 35,000 feet.
The appetizer course consisted of several small bowls, each holding a colorful, seasonal delight. The sashimi was remarkably fresh, a true luxury in the sky. The main dish, a simmered plate, was deeply flavorful, with a dashi broth that was both complex and comforting. Paired with warm rice and miso soup, it was a meal that soothed the soul. The quality was, without exaggeration, on par with a fine restaurant on the ground. I should also note that my neighbor’s Western-style hamburger steak looked equally delicious.
The Value of a Night Flight: Rest and a Refreshing Breakfast
After a satisfying meal and a glass of wine, it was time to embrace the greatest advantage of a night flight. I converted my seat into a fully flat bed and laid out the provided mattress pad. The cabin lights dimmed, and a peaceful quiet settled over us. The seven-hour flight time to Hawaii is perfect—just enough time to dine and get a solid block of restorative sleep. The comfort of the lie-flat bed was exceptional, and I quickly drifted off.
“Sir, we will be serving breakfast soon. May I wake you?”
I awoke to the gentle voice of a flight attendant. Outside, the sky was just beginning to lighten. Thanks to the deep sleep, my mind was incredibly clear. For the pre-arrival meal, I chose a light breakfast of fruit and yogurt. The sweet and tart flavors of the fresh fruit gently roused my senses. The protein-rich Oikos yogurt was a smart choice, providing the perfect fuel for an active first day in Hawaii.
Arrival in Paradise and the Next Chapter
The flight seemed to pass in an instant. Before I knew it, we were descending into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. As the cabin door opened, that familiar, humid, sweet-scented air washed over me. I was back in Hawaii. There’s no feeling quite like it.
I cleared immigration quickly and took a cab to Waikiki. My home for this trip would be the Sheraton Waikiki. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the iconic view of its infinity pool, which seems to merge seamlessly with the turquoise waters of Waikiki Beach. This view is always the moment it truly sinks in.
Guided by the sun turtle “La,” this journey had the best possible beginning. Next time on Photomo, I’ll be sharing a detailed report on my stay in a stunning Ohana Suite at this very hotel. Stay tuned.
Practical Insights: Your Questions about ANA Business Class Answered
Now, in true CityNomix fashion, let’s dive into some practical information based on my experience to help you plan your own trip.
What is the ANA Experience like?
The overall ANA experience is defined by meticulous attention to detail and impeccable service (omotenashi). From the lounge staff to the cabin crew, there’s a sense of pride and professionalism that makes the journey seamless and pleasant. The aircraft are clean, the food is high quality, and the comfort of the passenger is clearly the top priority. It’s a consistently premium experience.
Is there an ANA Office in Tokyo?
Yes, ANA has several offices and ticket counters in Tokyo. Their main headquarters are in the Shiodome area. However, for most travelers, booking and managing flights is easily done through their excellent English-language website or by calling their customer service center. For airport-related matters, their counters at both Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports are fully staffed.
How can I use Seat Guru for ANA flights?
SeatGuru is an excellent tool for choosing your seat. For the A380 Flying Honu (search for Airbus A380), you can view the seat map for the upper deck business class. It highlights which seats have more privacy, which are standard, and which might be close to galleys or lavatories. I always cross-reference the airline’s seat map with SeatGuru before making my final selection to avoid any surprises.
Does ANA offer Promo Codes for International Flights?
While ANA doesn’t use promo codes in the same way as many US airlines, they frequently offer sales and special fares. The best way to catch these deals is to subscribe to their newsletter and check the “Deals & Offers” section on their website. Fares can be significantly lower during these promotional periods, especially if you have flexible travel dates.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Overture to Hawaii on ANA Business Class
My flight on ANA Business Class to Hawaii was more than just a journey; it transformed the act of travel into a memorable part of the destination itself. The experience perfectly leveraged the benefits of a night flight, starting with the enriching time in the Narita ANA Lounge. The unique charm of the Flying Honu, combined with a private, comfortable seat and exquisite in-flight service, created an atmosphere of pure anticipation. I arrived in Hawaii not just transported, but truly refreshed and energized. If you are planning your next trip to the islands, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in this experience. A remarkable journey awaits you on the back of the gentle sky turtle.
ANA LOUNGE (Narita International Airport, Terminal 1)
Official Website: https://www.ana.co.jp/en/ca/serviceinfo/international/inflight/guide/lounge/promotions/nrt.html#nrt01
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