I rarely use ANA points for an award. If needed to, I transfer from AMEX.

I am currently in Tokyo scheduled to fly HND-SIN-HND starting in 2 days. I hold PE outbound and J on return. It sure would be nice to be in J on the outbound. There do appear to be available seats according to the map, which I know is no guarantee.

My question: Would it be worth it to go to HND or an ANA office today and request an upgrade? Or try at HND when checking in? My experience with ANA and JAL both is that they tend to be very inflexible but maybe there is a way, in theory at least? I do have the points to pay for the difference and would consider also paying cash depending on the difference.

Also if I want to try on the departure day, should I check-in in advance?

Thanks in advance for any assistance!.