Thanks all... I've flown NH new style F FRA-NRT and NRT-LHR, so I certainly know what to expect, and what I'd be missing flying UA - it was why I was willing to consider a NRT-HND transfer in the first place.

I was not aware of the ITM option. I have always equated KIX with Osaka. I'll investigate that as well. I'd rather avoid the 70 minute bus service NRT-HND.