Choice of returning to Aus from Japan?

[Bus970]

Is it wise to go to Japan one way and then choose book return date once I arrive? I only plan 14 days max but I might want to change dates more or less. Is it a good idea to leave from Osaka or return via Narita airport. Which is a money saving choice? I have to stop at Tokyo first and then travel around? Thanks.

 

[Cynicor]

If the airline or immigration agent want proof of a departing flight what will you use?

 

[Bus970]

I believe if you have large amount in your bank can help but I will have a purchase order from a large company to pick up in Tokyo

 

[equus]

I believe if you have large amount in your bank can help but I will have a purchase order from a large company to pick up in Tokyo

That is not going to help you with entry to Japan, and possibly not with getting onto the plane in the first place.
Japanese entry requirements warn that visitors not holding return/onward tickets could be refused entry. As a practical matter, that means many airlines will want to check that before letting you board the flight to Japan in the first place - as if you were to be refused entry, the airline would be left with the cost of returning you to Australia.

 

[RealtimeY]

It should be easy enough to book a far-dated fully flexible flight back (within say a month) that you can pull out if asked. Just remember to cancel it.

In terms of saving money though, two one way flights flights are almost never good value. Perhaps you'd be better off with a semi-flexible round trip option, or use points for one/both ways for flexibility.

 

[elanshin]

Part of this comes down to what time period you're travelling. For example, because it's relatively quiet right now for Tokyo, i could've just paid the change fee ($225 for discount Y) on Qantas, and moved myself as all the other HND - SYD planes still had sale tickets.

On the other hand, if you're going during a peak period where tickets do sell out, the prices would go up drastically even if you had a flex ticket.

Of course the best money solution would be to lock in dates.

 

[offshore171]

Book a flex return ticket

 

[yachty]

Is it wise to go to Japan one way and then choose book return date once I arrive?

Nope. ANA especially seem very strict with confirming you have an onward ticket out of Japan, they won't uplift you without one. It is on Timatic that you need an onward/return ticket. Airport agents won't care how much is in your bank account.

+1 to booking a flex return ticket on the itinerary you want, then moving it once you know. Otherwise you could book one-way, and use one of those sites that gives you a 'temporary' PNR/ticket for 48 hours that you can use to show when you are checking in/on arrival (if asked). That would give you time to sort your arrangements out after arrival if you absolutely need to do it that way.

In terms of saving money though, two one way flights flights are almost never good value. Perhaps you'd be better off with a semi-flexible round trip option, or use points for one/both ways for flexibility.

Yeah two one-ways could cost OP substantially more, unless they're planning to use LCCs.

 

[kelvedon]

Or buy a fully refundable one way to Manila, Seoul or Taipei?

 

[Bus970]

If the airline or immigration agent want proof of a departing flight what will you use?

I was hoping to go to South Korea via Busan, I will check my options when I arrive in Tokyo but I still bought a flexible return.