126. Jess's Family Trip to Japan on Points—Spring Break for $200?!

In this episode, Jess takes us step-by-step through her family's spring break trip to Japan—a points and miles masterpiece that cost just $200 total out of pocket for four round-trip flights and multiple hotel stays. From first class flights to washer/dryers in hotel rooms, this trip had it all. Whether you're dreaming of cherry blossoms, bullet trains, or Hello Kitty cafés, this episode is packed with tips for making Japan happen—without breaking the bank.

Flying to Japan in Style with AA Miles

Jess booked her family's flights using American Airlines miles, flying on Japan Airlines from Chicago to Tokyo, and shares her tips for snagging first-class saver award seats, business-class seats, and also premium-economy seats.

Staying in Tokyo, Family Style

For the Tokyo leg, Jess chose the Hyatt House Shibuya, a new property that has quickly become her top recommendation for families.

Kyoto on a Budget with Hyatt Place

After Tokyo, the family took the bullet train to Kyoto and stayed at the Hyatt Place Kyoto, a Category 2 gem offering amazing value.

Activities included exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine, tasting local snacks at Nishiki Market, and spending several hours with deer at Nara Park—Molly's favorite part of the trip!

Luxury Final Night at the Conrad Tokyo

For their final night, Jess used Hilton free-night certificates to stay at the Conrad Tokyo, a luxury property with top-tier service. From Hello Kitty water bottles at checkout to executive-lounge cocktails, it was the perfect way to end the trip. Jess doesn't recommend it for the location alone, but if you've got free night certificates, she says it's 100% worth it.

A trip to Japan for a family of four with flights and hotels for $200? This is the power of points and miles. Hit play now and hear how Jess pulled it off—and how you can too.

Links:

• Points Talk Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com
• How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
• Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-house/en-US/tyoxs-hyatt-house-tokyo-shibuya
• Hyatt Place Kyoto Review: Hyatt Place Kyoto Review - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/hyatt-place-kyoto-review/
• SmartEx App (for Shinkansen tickets): Tokaido Sanyo Kyushu Shinkansen Internet - https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html
• Reservation Service | Tokaido Sanyo Kyushu Shinkansen Internet Reservation Service - https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html
• Voice Map app: Walking Tour App » VoiceMap - https://voicemap.me/walking-tour-app
• Cat rescue cafe: Home | 宿木カフェ＆レストラン - https://www.yadorigicafe.com
• Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

• 00:30 – Flights to Japan: AA miles, upgrades, and flight tricks
• 07:00 – Booking first class seats and handling premium economy changes
• 12:00 – Transportation in Tokyo and using transit cards for kids
• 16:00 – Hyatt House Shibuya: why it's perfect for families
• 23:00 – Favorite Tokyo experiences: TeamLab, shopping streets, latte art & cat cafés
• 29:00 – Kyoto stay at Hyatt Place + must-dos like Nara Park and local markets
• 36:00 – Final night at Conrad Tokyo with Hilton free-night certificates
• 42:00 – Recap of highlights, family takeaways, and why Jess is ready to go back