Japan Airlines Sakura Bangkok lounge is open to all of Japan Airlines business class passengers. In addition, both Oneworld elites and JAL frequent flyers can access the JAL lounge. At my time of visiting Thailand, JAL had the only open Oneworld Lounge. Both Cathay Pacific and Qatar lounges were still closed due to the Coronavirus Pandemic.
The JAL Sakura BKK Lounge is fairly large and holds similar ascetics as the rest of JALs lounges around the world. It pays homage to the JAL first class Lounges back in Tokyo. Accent in light color wood and bright lights, the lounge is large, clean and crisp. There’s also lots of windows which look out at the tarmac and terminal.
JAL Lounge Food And Beverages
The Bangkok lounge has a decent selection of both local food and Japanese dishes including local drinks and japanese drinks. With a heavy focus on Japanese food. They are both made to order food, similar to what you find in Tokyo, and grab and go food. Items include beef curry and freshly baked breads.
Due to Covid, most items are only on display for guests and a buffet tender will provide food to patrons. Hot dishes are ordered and then picked up when ready. You can eat anywhere in the lounge. There is a large dining area next to the kitchen.
There are some pre-packet snacks available. Yet, the made to order food is better.
At the buffet there is also a bar. This looks like a self-serve bar, but I found the attendants are very keen to serve people. Each time I walked up, someone would walk over and hover, waiting to be engaged. I found the sake to be very enjoyable. It was also nice that Japanese whiskey is available.
Soda, beer, juice, and water is also available.
JAL Lounge – Rest, Sit, Relax
The Bangkok Japan Airlines lounge has plenty of area to rest and relax before a flight. There are tables meant for eating next to the bar and food area and chairs on the far end of the lounge. Due to Covid there is a lot of plexiglass in place to provide some level of barriers between guests.
The lounge does not have anywhere to really sleep or relax for extended periods. This regional lounge is nice, but really serves it purpose for only a quick drink or snack before a flight.
Japan Airlines has also done a good job of ensure there is power outlets spread throughout the lounge. Making it easy to recharge before flight.
For kids there is a wooden model of a 787 cockpit. Sadly, due to Covid and high touch areas, the structure is only to look at for the time being.
For those who don’t want to worry about pulling your luggage around the lounge, use a locker by the entrance. You can program a code to ensure your items are secured while using the lounge.
Finally, behind the bar is the restrooms and showers. There are two showers available for use.
Bottom Line
For international airport lounges the JAL lounge is alright. It’s a good place to rest, utilize free wi fi before a flight or during a connection. I personally prefer the Cathay Pacific lounge, but with it closed due to Covid the JAL lounge sufficed. The Japanese food and sake are fine, and the service is top notch. It also was one of the few lounges to still offer showers during the pandemic. If you’re flying through Bangkok come in for a drink, but don’t arrive extra early. There’s no real perk to this lounge and nothing extra special about it.
