China Airlines Pikachu Jet Business Class Experience

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As a frequent flyer, I know when a lie-flat seat is just a seat and when it delivers so much more. If you are a luxury traveler and want to add some cuteness to your next trip to Taiwan, then check out China Airlines Pikachu Jet CI2. I flew round-trip from Seattle to Taipei in business class, so I had the opportunity to evaluate the product on both legs. China Airlines is the grande dame of Taiwanese airlines with a great reputation for outstanding service and food.

Pros

Seat: My business-class seat just oozed comfort, with plush cushions, a lay-flat seat and luxurious bedding.
Food: Massive quantities with many items curated by Michelin-starred chefs.
Service: Outstanding service throughout the flight and the cleanest restrooms I’ve ever experienced on a flight.
Price: After comparing round-trip fares across the three Taiwanese airlines flying to Seattle, China Airlines emerged as the most cost-effective option, saving travelers between $200 and $1,100 per ticket.

Cons

Pajamas: Not offered, just slippers.
Lounges: The contracted lounge in Seattle, in my opinion, is among the worst at the airport.
Wi-Fi: I think this had more to do with the route over the ocean, but it didn’t work on either leg.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Use your American Express Platinum card to access the Centurion Lounge at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Large and luxurious with good food.

Editor’s note: The writer was hosted.

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What is a Pikachu?

The Business Class cabin with large pod-like seats with a Pikachu headrest cover and a Pikachu pillow — I loved my Business Class seat on the China Airlines Pikachu Jet CI2. Photo credit: China Airlines

I’ll be honest, before this flight, my Pokémon knowledge was limited at best. Doing some online research, I quickly learned that Pikachu is the Mickey Mouse of Asia. The darling mouse-like creature has bright yellow fur, a lightning-bolt-shaped tail and cute red cheeks that store electricity. By the time we landed, I became a fan. What’s not to like about those darling red cheeks?

Note: PIKACHU and Pokémon are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures Inc. and GAME FREAK Inc. © $1995$–$2026$ Nintendo / Creatures / GAME FREAK.

What to Expect in Business Class on China Airlines Pikachu Jet CI2

Airline seat with the Pikachu character printed on a felt headrest and a lavender pillow with a bright yellow Pikachu sleeping. — Business class seat with Pikachu pillow and headrest. Photo credit: Peggy Cleveland

China Airlines’ impeccable service made my entire flight memorable. Flight attendants provided thoughtful hospitality without being intrusive. They seemed to know what I needed before I did. Unfortunately, last-minute operational changes kept me from boarding the actual A350-900 adorned with 13 Pokémon characters. However, the crew delivered the experience by packing our cabin with themed interior elements and swag.

Here are the highlights from my flights:

OMG: The Food from Michelin-Starred Chefs

Airline meal with steak, lobster, asparagus and potatoes. — After carb-heavy meals in Taiwan, this high-protein meal hit the spot. Photo credit: Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

China Airlines created a high bar for future flights. The in-flight culinary experiences exceeded my expectations for airplane food. The company partners with several Michelin-starred chefs, including Chef Ken Chen, Le Palais (3 Michelin Stars), Chen Yong-Hua, MIPON (1 Michelin Star) and many more.

I almost had to be rolled off the A350. I felt like I ate and drank my way across the Pacific Ocean. The cabin crew kept the food coming, starting with a glass of French wine and a Pokémon-branded snack. Then the appetizer course offered all three menu options! The food kept coming the whole flight.
Outstanding! I enjoyed every meal. Premium, fresh ingredients and excellent service made my flight feel more like a 5-star restaurant than an airline meal. I think this is an area in which China Airlines really excels.
I found the menu extensive, offering a range of Western and Asian style dishes. I had a hard time deciding when pre-ordering my meals and changed my mind several times before my flight.
As a wine lover, I zeroed in on the premium French wine. Sipping on a glass of Laurent-Perrier Millésimé Brut 2015 champagne started my flight off with pure luxury.

SheBuysTravel Tip: To ensure you get your absolute first choice of Michelin-starred menu items, log in to the China Airlines website or app to pre-order your meals. You can select your dishes anywhere from 21 days up to 24 hours before your flight departs.

In-flight Oasis: Business Class Seats China Airlines on the A350-900

Alt Text: Lady sleeping with an eye mask and wearing pearls. — Best night’s sleep ever on an airplane. Photo credit: Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

The business class seat on China Airlines felt more like a living room recliner than an airplane seat, especially with the cute little lamp. It easily converted into a lie-flat bed with plush bedding and the cute Pikachu pillow. I have to admit – my best night’s sleep on an airplane.

Entertainment center: I enjoyed the large screen and a good selection of movies. I watched two new-release movies I hadn’t seen.
Noise-canceling headphones: Included at the seat, enhanced the experience for me.
Lots of Storage: I found plenty of places to store items I used during the flight in all the nooks and crannies.
Tray Table: Provided plenty of room between me and the table. The unique design allowed me to slide the tray forward when I wasn’t eating and use it to place my phone or hold other items I used during the flight.

The Swag and Other Benefits of China Airlines Business Class

Airline tray table with X MOSHINO travel kit spread out with toothbrush, toothpaste, luggage tag, eye mask, earplugs and personal care items. — China Airlines X MOSCHINO branded travel kit provides a variety of amenities for your flight. Photo credit: Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

My China Airlines experience began at the airport. Priority check-in saved me so much time because the airport was so crowded. I found the complimentary lounge access a nice touch. Onboard, I enjoyed the extra perks of business class, including a preflight drink and personalized service. I loved the X MOSCHINO branded travel kit and used most of the products during my flight. Guests in business class also enjoy complimentary wi-fi.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Since TransPacific satellite Wi-Fi can be notoriously spotty or drop out entirely over the ocean, always download your favorite movies, books or critical work documents directly to your personal devices before leaving the airport gate.

Pokémon Extras Aboard the China Airlines Pikachu Jet CI2

Pikachu cardboard kids' meal box, flat, paper luggage tag, coloring kits, note pads and a pink vinyl bag. — Pokémon swag available on China Airlines. Photo credit: Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

Everywhere I looked, the Pokémon theme was front and center. I found myself noshing on Pokémon snacks and resting my head on a Pikachu pillow. My dinner tray had a Pokémon tray liner. No paper cups in business class, but those flying in economy were offered themed paper cups. The Pokémon-themed kids’ meal boxes were a hit with the children on board. Check out the onboard shopping for unique Pikachu-themed merchandise, including luggage and travel accessories. The onboard entertainment also provides access to 10 Pokémon movies.

Business class seat on China Airlines features neutral colors, a lie-flat seat, a Pikachu headrest cover, a Pikachu pillow, a lamp and views through the porthole window. — The large, comfortable seats in China Airlines business class. Photo credit: Marguerite “Peggy” Cleveland

FAQs

What Pokémon-themed items are in business class?

Flight attendants spoil passengers with themed amenities from takeoff to landing.

Themed Pillows & Headrest Covers: Specially designed Pikachu pillows for maximum comfort during the flight
Tableware & Napkin Rings: China Airlines dresses up business class meals with exclusive Pokémon napkin rings and special tray mats.
Exclusive Amenities: The flight attendants surprise passengers with limited-edition gifts, such as a Pikachu ballpoint pen or sticky notes, along with themed mixed snacks.
In-Flight Entertainment: Access to a dedicated selection of 10 Pokémon movies on your personal screen.

Which routes and aircraft feature the China Airlines Pikachu Jet CI2?

Initially, China Airlines scheduled the Pikachu Jet CI2 to fly between Taipei and Tokyo and between Taipei and Seattle. I flew round-trip on the Taipei-to-Seattle route and enjoyed the experience.

Can you collect in-flight souvenirs?

Yes, there are a variety of options for pens, notepads and coloring sets. There are also special boxed Pikachu-themed kids’ meals.

Is China Airlines’ business class experience secure and comfortable for solo female travelers?

Yes, I felt very safe flying with the airline, and the attentive cabin crew ensured I was comfortable throughout the flight. The seat configuration gives every seat direct aisle access. Although there are no doors, the high shell walls ensured my privacy.