Fair question.

The trip as described is a R/T to PIT breaking there with a stopover in one direction in PHX. Nothing wrong or even more cost;y in this than a simple R/T. The zone to which your friend is flying, i.e. the east coast is pricier by about 30-40K in yen than the west coast but that is about it

Try looking at prices a month and then two months after the proposed dates. You will find huge drops because the 2nd week out of Japan is about as peak as it gets here for travel outbound. (prices climb from mid July and do not drop until early Sept.) It s called Obon which is akin to All Soul's Day in the Christian faith. The upshot is you are seeking a ticket at the single highest part of the year save possibly New Years.

If at all possible I advise your friend to enjoy the lack of crowds in Japan caused by the exodus of so many people at that time and then travel in Oct or Nov for fun.

Best,

Mike