Best refundable ticket from TYO
 

Family of two + toddler visiting Japan in January 2026. I’ve read that it’s recommended to have a return ticket before arrival. But I’m trying to snag a last minute biz ticket from TYO back to the U.S. while traveling.
Want to buy a placeholder ticket but not sure if below are feasible. Options I’m considering:

• Book a fully refundable TYO→ICN ticket, or
  
• Use a 24-hour cancellation policy (book on United or Air Canada right before leaving the U.S. and cancel after clearing immigration).
  

Any tips?
For the actual return tickets I'm aiming to book two biz class or three economy with points. Can purchase economy right now, but do not want want to lock up points unnecessarily just in case I am able to find a biz class.
Thanks!

A refundable one-way ticket from Japan to an Asian hub *(e.g. Tokyo / Osaka / Fukuoka to Seoul / Busan / Shanghai etc.) is probably the most straightforward placeholder for immigration. Alternatively, TYO→ICN award booking should not require that many miles.

I would book the economy or premium economy award tickets and cancel if/when affordable business class seats become available.

I am assuming that it is still true that the miles will be instantly redeposited upon cancellation. The only thing that gets locked up is your ability to fly home on the flights/date you want, albeit in economy.

Looks like it would 100K milles for jp to usa biz class with United miles for a United Visa cardmember.

ETA: it might actually involve changing your existing tickets, but pretty sure it is cancel and rebook

On the same idea as you, but haven't had luck yet with refundable ticket. Have to look more thoroughly. Thanks!

The problem with booking an award ticket locks my points with that airline. Who knows where I may find the biz class. Could be UA, AC, VS, ANA, JAL and so on.

ok, was not clear what points you are using. Apparently not UA or AC miles.

I've gotten prompt and free refunds of awards booked with NH miles.