United Airlines Launches Nonstop US Flights to Sapporo and New Chicago–Tokyo Service

United Airlines has announced two new nonstop routes to Japan, significantly expanding options for North American travellers planning trips to both Tokyo and Hokkaido.

Chicago O’Hare to Tokyo Narita — Daily from October 24, 2026

Starting October 24, United will operate daily year-round service between Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Tokyo Narita (NRT) on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. United will be the only US carrier offering nonstop service between Chicago and Narita, giving Midwestern travellers a direct route to Japan without connecting through another US hub. The route is now open for booking.

San Francisco to Sapporo — Seasonal from December 11, 2026

The bigger announcement for Japan visitors is the launch of nonstop San Francisco (SFO) to Sapporo New Chitose (CTS) service. Operating three times weekly on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from December 11, 2026 through March, this marks the first ever nonstop service between the continental United States and Sapporo.

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido and the gateway to Japan’s finest winter travel. The city hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival in February, and the surrounding mountains — Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu — are among the world’s best ski destinations. Until now, travellers from the US had to connect through Tokyo or Osaka, adding hours to an already long-haul journey. The direct SFO–CTS flight changes that calculation completely.

Demand on the Sapporo route is expected to be strong given there is no competing nonstop service on the corridor. We recommend booking early, particularly for the peak February window coinciding with the Snow Festival.

For travellers heading to Tokyo, the new ORD–NRT service is a welcome addition that faces more competition — United, ANA, Japan Airlines, and others already serve Narita from multiple US cities. The Chicago route simply gives Midwesterners a convenient home-departure option without routing through the coasts.

Both routes are now bookable on United’s website and major online travel agents. If you are still working out your routing into Japan, our guide to flights to Japan covers how to compare airlines, route options, and what to consider when booking long-haul transpacific travel.