Originally Posted by ksandness
I'm also going to check out UAL, ORD to KIX, which is actually closer to my destination, over on that board.
Another option which you might consider = ORD to NGO.
Both JL and AA appear to have direct flights. (Maybe they're code shares?). I've flown in to NGO from SFO (with United Airlines). Very happy with that experience.
NGO is great for connecting to central and Western Japan. Very simple 30 minute train journey to Meitetsu Nagoya Station and then a quick walk to the JR Station (immediately next door) for the Tokaido Shinkansen and various other trains.