What is “average Asia” anyway? No matter the metrics you use though, there is nothing really average about Japan compared to the rest of Asia. That’s why it costs more. Wealthier population, higher cost of living, bigger corporations with tons of business travel, better airlines... the list goes on.

With that said, I’ve never paid more than $550 round trip my last 3 flights to Japan over the past year (1 SQ, 2 NH) out of LAX. Keep an eye out for the occasional dip in fares. It does happen.