Global Major Cities Guide

Tokyo is served by two major airports: Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport, which handle both international and domestic flights.

Sections

1. Narita International Airport (NRT)

Location

Narita International Airport is located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) east of central Tokyo, in Chiba Prefecture.
It primarily handles international flights and is one of the busiest airports in Japan.

Transportation Options to/from Tokyo

Train
- Narita Express (N’EX):
  - Operated by JR East, this is the fastest and most convenient option for reaching central Tokyo.
  - Destinations: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Yokohama, and other major hubs.
  - Travel Time: ~50-60 minutes to Tokyo Station.
  - Cost: ¥3,070 (one-way, standard class).
  - Tips: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, the N’EX is covered.
- Keisei Skyliner:
  - A high-speed train connecting Narita to Ueno and Nippori stations.
  - Travel Time: ~41 minutes to Ueno.
  - Cost: ¥2,520 (one-way).
- Local Trains:
  - Cheaper but slower options include the JR Sobu Line and Keisei Main Line.
  - Travel Time: ~80-90 minutes.
  - Cost: ¥1,320-1,500.
Bus
- Airport Limousine Bus:
  - Direct service to major hotels and stations in Tokyo.
  - Travel Time: ~90-120 minutes (depending on traffic).
  - Cost: ¥3,200 (one-way).
- Cheaper Shuttle Buses:
  - Some buses cost around ¥1,000-1,300 but may have limited stops.
Taxi
- Travel Time: ~60-90 minutes.
- Cost: ¥20,000-30,000 (expensive due to the distance and tolls).
Ride-Sharing/Private Transfers
- Services like Uber or private car hires are available but are similarly expensive (¥20,000+).
Rental Cars
- Available at the airport, but driving in Tokyo is not recommended for first-time visitors due to heavy traffic and complex road systems.

Main Facilities

Shopping and Dining:
- Duty-free shops, Japanese souvenir stores, and luxury brands.
- Restaurants offering Japanese cuisine (sushi, ramen, soba) and international options.
Lounges:
- Airline lounges and paid lounges for relaxation.
Wi-Fi:
- Free and reliable Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
Currency Exchange and ATMs:
- Available in all terminals.
Other Services:
- Luggage delivery services, showers, capsule hotels, and prayer rooms.

Procedures for International Arrivals

Immigration:
- Present your passport, visa (if required), and completed disembarkation card.
- Biometric data (fingerprints and photo) will be taken.
Customs:
- Fill out a customs declaration form.
- Declare any restricted or prohibited items.
Baggage Claim:
- Efficient and well-organized.
Quarantine:
- Health checks may be conducted, especially during pandemics or outbreaks.

Cultural Considerations

Politeness: Staff are extremely polite and helpful. Bowing is common.
Language: Signs are in Japanese and English. Staff often speak basic English.
Quiet Atmosphere: Avoid loud conversations or phone calls in public areas.

2. Haneda Airport (HND)

Location

Haneda Airport is located much closer to central Tokyo, about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) south of the city center.
It handles a mix of domestic and international flights and is known for its convenience and efficiency.

Transportation Options to/from Tokyo

Train
- Tokyo Monorail:
  - Connects Haneda to Hamamatsucho Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
  - Travel Time: ~13 minutes.
  - Cost: ¥500.
- Keikyu Line:
  - Connects Haneda to Shinagawa Station and other parts of Tokyo.
  - Travel Time: ~15 minutes to Shinagawa.
  - Cost: ¥300-400.
Bus
- Airport Limousine Bus:
  - Direct service to major hotels and stations.
  - Travel Time: ~30-60 minutes.
  - Cost: ¥1,000-1,500.
Taxi
- Travel Time: ~20-30 minutes.
- Cost: ¥5,000-8,000 (depending on traffic).
Ride-Sharing/Private Transfers
- Similar to taxis in cost and convenience.
Rental Cars
- Available but not recommended for navigating Tokyo.

Main Facilities

Shopping and Dining:
- Extensive shopping options, including Japanese souvenirs, luxury brands, and duty-free shops.
- Restaurants serving Japanese and international cuisine.
Observation Decks:
- Popular for plane-spotting and views of Tokyo Bay.
Wi-Fi:
- Free and reliable Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
Currency Exchange and ATMs:
- Widely available.
Other Services:
- Capsule hotels, showers, luggage delivery, and prayer rooms.

Procedures for International Arrivals

Immigration:
- Similar to Narita, with biometric data collection.
Customs:
- Straightforward process with clear signage.
Baggage Claim:
- Efficient and well-organized.
Quarantine:
- Health checks may be conducted.

Cultural Considerations

Efficiency: Haneda is known for its quick processing times.
Language: English signage and announcements are available.
Cleanliness: The airport is impeccably clean, reflecting Japanese standards.

Key Differences Between Narita and Haneda

Proximity to Tokyo:
- Haneda is much closer, making it more convenient for travelers heading to central Tokyo.
Flight Options:
- Narita handles more international flights, while Haneda has a mix of domestic and international routes.
Cost of Transportation:
- Haneda is cheaper to access due to its proximity.

General Tips for Both Airports

Luggage Delivery Services:
- If you have heavy luggage, consider using the airport’s luggage delivery service to send your bags directly to your hotel (cost: ~¥2,000-3,000 per bag).
IC Cards:
- Purchase a prepaid IC card (Suica or Pasmo) for seamless travel on trains and buses.
Cash vs. Card:
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller purchases or local trains.
Cultural Etiquette:
- Be mindful of Japanese customs, such as standing on the correct side of escalators (left in Tokyo) and maintaining quiet in public spaces.

By understanding the details of Narita and Haneda airports, you can plan your arrival and departure in Tokyo with ease. Both airports are world-class and reflect Japan’s commitment to hospitality and efficiency. Safe travels!