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19 Best Ways To Earn Lots of Japan Airlines (JAL) Mileage Bank Miles [2024]

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Alex Miller
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Alex Miller

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Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business...
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Key Takeaways

  • You can earn Japan Airlines (JAL) miles by flying with JAL, Oneworld alliance partners, or non-alliance partners such as Air France and Emirates.
  • Several Marriott Bonvoy credit cards allow you to earn points and transfer them to JAL at a transfer rate of 3:1.
  • You can also earn miles by staying at over 15,000 partner hotels, booking rental cars, and purchasing through JAL Shopping Americas.

In 1951, Japan Airlines (JAL) became the first international airline in Japan. Now the largest commercial carrier in the country, it has hubs at Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) airports.

As a member of the Oneworld alliance, JAL serves more than 90 airports in 20+ countries.

Members of its airline loyalty program, JAL Mileage Bank (JMB), can earn miles for flights on JAL and partner airlines, as well as by making purchases with JAL’s travel and non-travel partners.

Let’s take a look at the myriad ways you can earn JMB miles to redeem for award flights, e-money, and other awards. Plus, you can read our post on the best ways to fly to Japan using points.

JAL Mileage Bank (JMB)

Join JMB To Earn Miles

Sign up for JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) and start earning miles for JAL flights, partner flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and more!

1. Take Flights on JAL

Japan Airlines Boeing 777 300ER First Class JAL Suite 2A
Japan Airlines first class. Image Credit: Cherag Dubash

Earn miles for flights on JAL Group Domestic and JAL International Airlines: Japan Airlines, Japan Transocean Air, Japan Air Commuter, and Ryukyu Air Commuter.

Flight mileage is determined by the sector mileage and the fare. Below is a table showing the JAL accumulation rates on international flights from Japan. Find accumulation rates for other international and domestic fares on JAL’s website.

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Classes

Applicable Booking Classes

Accumulation Rate

First Class

F, A

150%

Business Class

J, C, D, I

125%

X

70%

Premium Economy Class

W, R

100%

E

70%

Economy Class

Y, B

100%

H, K, M

70%

L, V, S

50%

O, G, Q, N

30%

2. Book Flights on JAL Partner Airlines

JAL partners with the Oneworld alliance and several additional carriers.

The following table shows the percentage of miles earned (depending on fare) for flights on each airline.

Oneworld Airline Partners

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Airline

Miles Earned

Airline

Miles Earned

Alaska Airlines

30% to 150%

Malaysia Airlines

25% to 150%

American Airlines

30% to 150%

Qantas

50% to 150%

British Airways

25% to 150%

Qatar Airways

30% to 150%

Cathay Pacific

50% to 150%

Royal Jordanian

25% to 125%

Finnair

25% to 125%

Royal Air Maroc

30% to 125%

Iberia

25% to 125%

S7 Airlines (temporarily suspended)

25% to 125%

Other Partners

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Airline

Miles Earned

Airline

Miles Earned

Air France

20% to 150%

Jetstar Japan*

30%

Bangkok Airways

50% to 150%

Korean Air

30% to 150%

China Eastern Airlines

30% to 150%

LATAM Airlines

30% to 125%

Emirates

15% to 150%

SriLankan Airlines

30% to 125%

Hawaiian Airlines

30% to 125%

Vistara

50% to 125%

* On Plus Bundle and Max Bundle (not Starter Fare)

Hot Tip: For more information, check out this in-depth guide to help you know where to credit your airline miles.

3. Elite Status Bonus Points

In addition to earning miles for flights on JAL and its partner airlines, JMB members earn FLY ON Points, which are calculated based on mileage. Collect FLY ON Points (or qualifying segments) to reach different membership levels and earn bonus miles:

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Membership Level

Qualifying Points

Qualifying Segments

Mileage Bonus

Crystal

30,000 FLY ON Points

30 segments

55%

Sapphire

50,000 FLY ON Points

50 segments

105%

JGC Premier

80,000 FLY ON Points

80 segments

105%

Diamond

100,000 FLY ON Points

120 segments

130%

JMB miles calculation: flight mileage x FLY ON point conversion rate 

SCROLL FOR MORE

Eligible Route

Conversion Rate

Japan Domestic Flight

2.0

International flight

JAL flight to and from Japan – China + Hong Kong + Asia + Oceania routes

1.5

JAL flight other than above routes

1.0

4. Bonus FLY ON Points

JAL is running a promotion for bonus points to add up to 400 points according to the purchased fare as follows:

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Fares

Flight Bonus FLY ON Points

JAL Group domestic flights within Japan 

(for flights departing on or before April 11, 2023)

Normal Fare, Child Fare, Round-trip Fare, JAL Business KIPPU, e Business, Shareholder’s Saver Fare, Discount for the Disabled, Care Giver’s Saver, Tokubin 1, Tokubin 3, Tokubin 7, Tokubin 21, Remote Island Round-trip, RAC Round-Trip Fare, etc

400 points

Special Transit, Child Fare for Special Transit, Discount for the Disabled for Special Transit, Transit Fare7

200 points

Sakitoku, Super Sakitoku, Ultra SAKITOKU, Senior Citizen Stand-by, Sky Mate Stand-by, JMB Award, JMB Companion, Transit Fare 28, Individual Inclusive Tour Fares, Group Discount Fares, etc.

0 points

JAL Group domestic flights within Japan

(for flights departing on or after April 12, 2023)

When traveling on the transfer fare, flight bonus FLY ON Points will be earned for each flight sector involved.

Flex, JAL CARD Flex, Business Flex, Remote Island Flex, Specific Route Flex, Shareholder’s Flex

400 points

Saver, Special Saver, Round Trip Saver

200 points

Promotion, Sky Mate Fare, Senior Citizen Fare, Award Tickets, Individual Inclusive Tour Fare, Inclusive Tour Fare, Group Discount Fare, School Educational Fare, etc.

0 points

JAL international flights

(Flights departing on or after July 1, 2022)

F, A,  J, C, D, I, X, W, R, E, Y, B, H, K, M, L, V, S
* Ineligible for agent-organized tours.

400 points

Booking classes other than those above

0 points

* For Japan domestic flight sectors included in international tickets that are eligible for flight mileage accrual, Flight bonus FLY ON Points are based on booking class as shown.

It really is possible to earn a ton of points and qualify for the bonuses that come with elite status!

One of the great things about the JAL status program is you don’t have to wait a full calendar year if you qualify for the next tier earlier. About 1 week after qualifying for a higher FLY ON tier, you’ll receive a new membership card to activate some of the service benefits!

Hot Tip: If you qualify for JMB Sapphire or JMB Diamond, you will receive an invitation to join JAL Global Club (JGC). Membership costs 5,000 miles and includes lounge access, annual gifts, and even bonus miles! 

Earn JMB Miles With Credit Cards

5. JAL USA CARD

JAL USA CARD bonus
Image Credit: First National Bank of Omaha

With the JAL USA CARD, you earn miles and receive discounts on in-flight purchases. Pay a $20 annual fee (waived the first year) to get 1 point per every $2 spent. Add a $50 upgrade fee (for a total of $70 per year) and you can earn 1 point for every $1 spent.

Hot Tip: JMB has a variety of non-U.S. financial partners. Check out more details on the JAL points transfer program.

6. Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

You can earn Marriott Bonvoy points and transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Japan Airlines at a transfer rate of 3:1. Plus, for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points that you transfer, you’ll receive an extra 5,000 JAL miles bonus.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
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A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Free Night valued at 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.
60,000 points + 1 Free Night Award
$770
$0
20.99% - 27.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros
  • Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
  • 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
  • 5 Elite Night Credits each year
Cons
  • Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier
  • Earn 60,000 Bonus Points plus 1 Free Night Award after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Free Night valued at 50,000 points. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
  • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
  • New! Earn 2X points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services.
  • 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • New! Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
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The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)
Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.
Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from your account opening.
125,000 points
$875
$95
20.99% - 27.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros
  • Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier
  • Earn 125,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases - our best points offer!
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
  • Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
85,000 points
$595
$250
20.49%-29.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
  • 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit
  • Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
  • Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases with the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card.
  • Marriott Bonvoy 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • With complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit, available for Qualifying Rates.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49%-29.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
95,000 points
$665
$650
20.49%-29.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros
  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.49%-29.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Earn Asia Miles With Credit Cards

7. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Cards

While JAL is not a direct airline partner of Amex Membership Rewards, it’s a partner of the Asia Miles program. If you want to use your miles with JAL through Asia Miles (1:1 ratio), you can use any of the Membership Rewards credit cards:

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
$1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
  • $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.¤
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

LAST CHANCE
American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

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This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
60,000 points + up to $100 back
$1,420
$325
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros
  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
  • Get the American Express® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points + up to $100 back. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

If you’re a business owner, see our list of the best Amex business credit cards.

8. Citi ThankYou Rewards Credit Cards

Similar to Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards has Asia Miles as a transfer partner. Earn Citi ThankYou Points and transfer them to Asia Miles to use with JAL.

Citi Premier® Card
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U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

*The information regarding the Citi Premier card has expired, and the card is no longer open to applicants.

*The information regarding the Citi Premier card has expired, and the card is no longer open to applicants.
No offer available
No offer available
$0
$95
21.24% - 29.24% variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Citi Premier® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

Pros
  • 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
  • Access to Citi transfer partners
  • Annual hotel credit
Cons
    • $95 annual fee
  • No welcome offer available
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
  • 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 21.24% - 29.24% variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Collect Miles With JMB Travel Partners

9. Partner Hotel Miles

With more than 15,000 participating hotels around the world, it’s easy to earn miles in your JMB account. Browse hotels with the partner hotel search engine or visit JMB World Marketplace.

10. Transfer Hotel Loyalty Points

You can transfer points from several hotel loyalty programs, but we would not recommend this as a good use of your points unless you needed to top-up your JMB account for an award.

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Hotel Loyalty Program

Minimum Transfer

Transfer Ratio

ALL – Accor Live Limitless

5,000

5:1

Hilton Honors

10,000

10:1

IHG One Rewards

10,000

5:1

World of Hyatt *

5,000

5:2

* If you transfer 50,000 or more World of Hyatt points, you’ll get a bonus of 12,500 World of Hyatt points transferred to the airline partner.

11. Hotel Special Offers

JMB provides plenty of opportunities to earn extra miles. For instance, earn up to 1,000 miles with Tokyu Hotels. Look for new deals on the JMB Promotions page (search for Hotel Mileage Information).

12. Book a Rental Car

Check out the variety of per-mile, per-day, and per-rental offers from JMB car rental partners:

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Car Rental Agency

Mileage Offer

Car Rental Agency

Mileage Offer

Alamo

300 miles per rental

Funinsha Rent-a-car

1 mile per ¥100

Avis

100 miles per day

Hertz

50 miles per day

Budget

50 miles per day

Japan Executive Limousine, Inc. (Southern California)

1 mile per $1

Dollar

300 miles per rental

Smile (Japan)

1 mile per ¥100

JMB World Marketplace also offers earning opportunities for car rentals.

Collect Miles With JMB Shopping Partners

13. JAL Shopping Americas

JAL Shopping Americas
Include your JMB membership number when making purchases from JAL Shopping Americas to earn 1 mile per $1 spent. Image Credit: JAL

Purchase items at JAL Shopping Americas and earn miles. JLB members earn 1 mile per every $2 spent, while holders of the JAL USA Card get 1 mile per $1 or enjoy a 5% discount.

To receive miles, provide your JMB membership number and look for miles to be credited about 2 months after purchase.

Hot Tip: You can also shop to earn miles at the JMB World Marketplace!

14. Duty-free Shopping

The Shilla Duty-Free

Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you can’t catch up on some shopping! The Shilla Duty-Free has 3 locations to shop with your JMB membership card: 1 in Seoul, and 2 at Incheon International (ICN).

Earn 2 miles for every $3 spent here. JMB members can earn miles for shopping even without boarding a flight!

Lotte Duty-Free Shop Ginza

Lotte Duty-Free Shop Ginza is an airport-style duty-free shop located in the city, where products of over 200 different brands are sold on the 2 floors of Tokyo Plaza Ginza, a new landmark of Ginza. The shop offers a new style of shopping that can be enjoyed by not only foreign customers visiting Japan but also Japanese customers planning to travel abroad.

You can earn 1 mile for every ¥100 spent at Lotte Duty-Free Shop Ginza.

15. JALUX ASIA Ltd.

Earn miles for souvenir purchases or home delivery of orchids, fruits, and spices with JALUX ASIA Ltd. Mileage earned varies by product purchased.

Special Offers and Services

16. JAL Family Club

Japan Airlines JAL Family Club
Image Credit: JAL

Whether Japan is your former home or you just travel there frequently, the JAL Family Club can be useful. There’s no fee to join, and you get a variety of benefits, such as the ability to pool miles for award redemptions and bonus miles.

First, choose a JLB member over the age of 12 to serve as the Primary Member of the JAL Family Club Account. Members must live in an eligible region outside of Japan (America, Europe/Middle East/Africa, Asia/Oceania).

Up to 9 people (including the Primary Member) may join the account, including the Primary Member’s spouse, children, parents, and spouse’s parents.

While there is no annual fee for the JAL Family Account, a registration fee of 1,000 miles is required.

Don’t have 1,000 miles in your account? You can agree to have them deducted as soon as you do! A renewal fee of 1,000 miles will be deducted every 5 years.

With a family account, you can earn bonus miles for your first JAL flight and other promotions.

17. Book Moving Services

Moving to Japan? Need to ship items overseas to friends and family? The following U.S. to Japan shipping services will earn you JMB miles!

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Company

Miles Earned

Endo Freight Forwarders

10 miles per cubic feet

Nippon Express

1 mile per $1

Nissin International Transport U.S.A.

Up to 5,000 miles

18. Purchase a Newspaper Subscription

Sign up for a new subscription or renew your subscription to Asahi Shimbun Digital newspaper to receive 3,000 miles. JALFC members earn 5,000 miles. Asahi Shimbun Digital offers digital access to the printed morning edition newspaper as well as online features.

19. Local Area Services

Take a detailed look at all of the Japan Airlines partnerships:

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Company

Service

Miles Offered

Location

Ai Klean

Maid services by Japanese professionals

1 mile per $1; 300 bonus miles for first-time customers

Los Angeles, CA

Global Action

Welfare service

500 miles for enrollment

Outside of Japan

JAL ABC Coat Storage

Coat storage

Up to 50 miles per piece

Narita/Haneda/ Kansai Airports

JAL ABC Mobile Phone Rental

Mobile phone and Wi-Fi router rentals

Up to 200 miles

Narita/Nagoya/Chubu Airports

JAL Airport Baggage Delivery Service

Baggage delivery

Up to 100 miles

Narita/Haneda/Kansai Airports

Nippan IPS

Education Services

Up to 500 miles

Mobile

Starts Pacific Inc.

Real estate

Up to 5,000 miles

Los Angeles, CA

Final Thoughts

Earning JMB miles is as easy as flying JAL and booking travel with its partners. Plus, JMB provides plenty of opportunities to earn miles with non-travel partners. Rack up miles even faster with the JAL USA Card!

Need some inspiration as to how you’d use those miles? Check out this Japan Airlines, 777 First Class review (Tokyo to LA)!

The information regarding JAL USA CARD was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Citi Premier® Card has expired and the card is no longer open to applicants.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Japan Mileage Bank? Why should I join?

Japan Mileage Bank (JMB) is the free loyalty program of Japan Airlines (JAL).

Members earn miles by flying JAL and its partner airlines. You can also earn points by making purchases with other JMB partners.

Miles can be redeemed for flight awards and upgrades.

How can I join JMB?

Enroll in JMB online.

Do JMB miles expire?

Miles earned in the Japan Mileage Bank program are valid for 36 months.

Is Japan Airlines a member of an airline alliance?

Japan Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance. It has additional partners including Emirates, Air France, Jetstar Japan, China Eastern Airlines, Bangkok Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air, Latam Airlines, Srilankan Airlines, and Vistara.

JAL is also a member of Asia Miles, which includes over 20 airlines.

How can I contact Japan Airlines from the U.S.?

From the U.S., call the JAL Mileage Bank Center at 800-JAL-FONE (800-525-3663).

What is the login for JMB?

Is there a credit card to earn JMB Miles?

Earn up to 2  points per $1 spent with the JAL USA card depending on which annual fee option you choose. You can also transfer miles directly from Marriott Bonvoy.

Any of the travel rewards cards from American Express Membership Rewards or Citi ThankYou Rewards will earn miles transferable to Asia Miles as well.

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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