2025-11-01
Haneda vs Narita: Choosing the Best Tokyo Airport for Your Trip to Japan.
Between Haneda and Narita, find out which Tokyo airport is best for your trip to Japan!
Japan has several international airports, but the three most commonly used by travellers are Haneda (HND), Narita (NRT), and Kansai (KIX). The first two are located near Tokyo, while Kansai serves the Osaka region.
Each airport has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your destination and travel style. And if you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, it’s perfectly normal to wonder which airport is the best option.
That’s exactly what this article is about.
Here, you’ll find a comparison of Japan’s three main international airports, followed by practical information about Tokyo’s two airports: Haneda and Narita.
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Haneda, Narita or Kansai: Which Is the Best Airport for Your Trip to Japan?
Location and Access of Japan’s Airports
- Haneda (HND): Located 15 km from central Tokyo, it’s the most convenient option for those visiting the Japanese capital.
- Narita (NRT): About 60 km from Tokyo. It’s easily accessible by train or bus, but the journey takes longer.
- Kansai (KIX): Serves the Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe region. It’s 50 km from Osaka, with direct rail connections.
Type of Flights
- Haneda: Handles both domestic and international flights and is increasingly used for long-haul routes.
- Narita: Traditionally Tokyo’s main international airport, offering numerous intercontinental connections.
- Kansai: The international gateway for the Kansai region, with flights to Asia, Europe, and North America.
Transfer Time to City Centres
- Haneda: 20–30 minutes to central Tokyo.
Narita: 60–90 minutes to central Tokyo.
Kansai: 50 minutes to central Osaka.
Convenience for Domestic Travel Within Japan
- Haneda: The best choice for quick connections to other Japanese cities.
- Narita: Also offers domestic flights, but fewer than Haneda.
- Kansai: Frequent flights to Hokkaido, Okinawa, and other Japanese destinations.
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Comfort and Services at Japan’s Airports
- Haneda: Modern, clean, and very efficient, with plenty of rest areas and capsule hotels.
- Narita: Large and busy, but well signposted, with excellent shopping areas.
- Kansai: Built on an artificial island, it offers good rest zones and nearby hotels.
Which Airport in Japan Should You Choose?
- Haneda: Ideal for travellers staying in Tokyo who want a quick and easy arrival.
- Narita: A practical choice for intercontinental flights, though it’s farther from the city.
- Kansai: The right option for those planning to explore Osaka, Kyoto, and the Kansai region.
👉 In summary:
- If your destination is Tokyo, Haneda is the most convenient.
- However, if you find a cheaper or direct flight to Narita, it might be worth it.
- If your trip includes Osaka or Kyoto, Kansai is the best choice since it’s closer.
Haneda Airport (HND): The Complete Guide to Flying to Tokyo with All the Practical Information
If your trip to Japan includes landing at Haneda International Airport (HND), you’re in luck.
That’s because it’s located very close to the city centre, making it far more convenient than Narita Airport.
Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about airlines, transport options, car rentals, nearby hotels, and other useful information about Haneda.
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Flights and Airlines at Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport handles both domestic and international flights, making it one of the busiest airports in Japan.
It’s mainly used by Japanese airlines such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines, which operate most flights from this airport.
In addition, there are also flights operated by European, American, and Asian airlines. The airport’s infrastructure is modern and efficient, with English-language support services available.
How to Get from Haneda Airport to Central Tokyo
Haneda is about 20 minutes from central Tokyo by train.
Options include the Keikyu Line, which connects directly to Shinagawa, and the Tokyo Monorail, which goes to Hamamatsucho.
There are also express buses to various parts of the city.
For added convenience, taxis are available, though they can be expensive. Private transfers can also be booked in advance.
Are There Direct Flights from Major European Cities and Transatlantic Routes?
Yes, Haneda has direct flights from several European capitals, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Rome.
There are also direct connections from major North American cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
This makes it much easier for travellers arriving from Europe or the Americas.
Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Haneda Airport
Haneda is considered more convenient than Narita due to its proximity to the city centre. The airport is clean, efficient, and well signposted.
English is widely used on information signs and by airport staff.
Additionally, there are rest areas, duty-free shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
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Is Uber Available at Haneda Airport?
Uber exists in Tokyo, but it works differently. Instead of private drivers, registered taxis accept requests through the app.
This means the fare is the same as a regular taxi. Therefore, there are no cheaper Uber services like in other cities.
How Many Terminals Does Haneda Airport Have?
Haneda has three main terminals. Terminal 1 is used by Japan Airlines and its partners.
Terminal 2 serves ANA and associated airlines, while Terminal 3 handles international flights. All terminals are connected by a free shuttle and an internal train.
Is It Worth Renting a Car at Haneda Airport?
Tokyo has an excellent public transport network, so a car isn’t necessary for getting around the city.
However, it can be useful if you plan to explore Japan outside the major cities.
The roads are good, but keep in mind that driving is on the left. To compare prices and book online, I recommend using DiscoverCars.
Is It Possible to Spend the Night at Haneda Airport?
Yes, Haneda is open 24 hours, and many travellers stay overnight here.
There are reclining chairs, rest areas, and even private sleeping pods.
There are also capsule hotels inside the airport, a convenient solution for those with very early flights.
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Are There Hotels Near Haneda Airport?
Yes, there are several accommodation options.
Inside the airport, you’ll find capsule hotels and business hotels.
Nearby, there are international chain hotels, such as the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu. These hotels offer free transfers between the terminal and the accommodation.
Useful Information and Important Contacts
- IATA Code: HND
- Distance to Tokyo City Centre: 15 km
- Average Travel Time to the City Centre: 20–30 minutes
- Airport Phone Number: +81 3-5757-8111
- Official Website: www.tokyo-airport-bldg.co.jp
- Wi-Fi: free throughout the airport
Narita International Airport (NRT): The Complete Guide to Flying to Tokyo with All the Practical Information
If you’re travelling to Japan, there’s a good chance you’ll land at Narita International Airport (NRT).
It’s located about 60 km from central Tokyo and is one of the main entry points into the country. Although farther than Haneda, it handles a large portion of international flights.
Here, you’ll find all the practical information to make your arrival easier, including airlines, transport options to the city centre, nearby hotels, car rentals, and useful tips for Narita.
Flights and Airlines at Narita Airport
Narita Airport is one of Japan’s largest international hubs.
It serves Japanese airlines such as ANA and JAL, as well as several European and North American carriers.
It’s also a base for low-cost airlines like Jetstar Japan and is the most used airport for long-haul flights.
How to Get from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo
The journey takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
The Narita Express (N’EX) connects directly to Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Tokyo Station.
Another option is the Keisei Skyliner, which goes to Ueno. There are express buses to various parts of the city. Taxis and private transfers are available, though they can be expensive.
Are There Direct Flights from Major European Cities and Transatlantic Routes?
Yes, Narita has direct flights from several European cities, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Rome.
There are also connections from North American cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. It is one of the main entry points for international travellers.
Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Narita Airport
Narita is large, busy, and has three distinct terminals.
English is widely used on signs and in customer service.
The airport features duty-free shops, rest areas, restaurants, and currency exchange services. Wi-Fi is free across all terminals.
Is Uber Available at Narita Airport?
Uber operates in a limited way in Japan. At the airport, the service is linked to registered taxis, without discounted fares. Most travellers opt for traditional taxis, private transfers, or public transport.
How Many Terminals Does Narita Airport Have?
Narita has three terminals.
Terminal 1 is used by major international airlines, including Star Alliance members.
Terminal 2 serves Oneworld airlines and others, while Terminal 3 is dedicated to low-cost carriers. Free buses connect all terminals.
Is It Worth Renting a Car at Narita Airport?
For visiting Tokyo and its surroundings, a car isn’t necessary. The public transport network is efficient and covers the entire region.
However, renting a car can be useful for exploring rural areas or taking long trips. To compare prices and book in advance, I recommend DiscoverCars.
Is It Possible to Spend the Night at Narita Airport?
Yes, but the airport has more restricted hours than Haneda and Kansai.
Some areas close overnight.
There are comfortable chairs and rest areas, but travellers should check the schedules. Capsule hotels and business hotels are available inside and near the airport.
Are There Hotels Near Narita Airport?
Yes, there are several accommodation options.
Hotel Nikko Narita and Narita Tobu Hotel Airport are popular choices.
Many hotels offer free transfers between the terminal and the accommodation. There are also budget options in Narita city, just a few minutes away.
Useful Information and Important Contacts for Narita
- IATA Code: NRT
- Distance to Tokyo City Centre: 60 km
- Average Travel Time to the City Centre: 60–90 minutes
- Airport Phone Number: +81 476-34-8000
- Official Website: www.narita-airport.jp
- Wi-Fi: free throughout the airport
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We travel as a family, focusing on authentic experiences, sustainable choices, and that extra touch of comfort that makes all the difference. At passaportenobolso.com, we share travel tips and practical information about destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. I’ve visited over 40 countries and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Every now and then, I also travel solo… Follow along on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
