My wife and I plan to go to Japan in the Fall. What are the best and most economical airlines and what sights are a must?

I wouldn't call it the best airline, but it was the most economical. When I went to Japan on Northwest, my r/t airfare from SFO to Narita was $500.00. I went through a travel agency in the City's Japantown (specializing in Japanese trips). I went back later in the year, again on Northwest, b/c airfare was so cheap. <BR> <BR>

I don't know if Virgin Atlantic flies from US to Japan. I flew Virgin from London to Tokyo last year, it was the best flight I have that direction for many years. Kyoto is a must. Do Tokyo first, otherwise you'll find Tokyo disappointing.

Go to Nara, too (not far from Kyoto). The temple there is supposed to be the largest wooden building in the world. It's certainly impressive. Also, there are some pretty and interesting shrines by a deer park where the deer will eat from your hands. <BR> <BR>

I'm going in July and got my tickets through JBTI (toll-free number 877-246-5284). Northwest rate (mid-week flights) NY to Osaka I got is $775 + tax. Continental has comparable rate. Check with them and see what you can get now. I spoke to a Miki who was very helpful.

Just a heads up that in these forums over the past couple of years there have been a large number of scathing posts about Northwest flying into Asia - thet concerned reliability, service etc.