Welcome to Tokyo! With two major international airports serving the metropolitan area, visitors are often faced with the dilemma of which one to fly to.
We’re here to help you decide whether Haneda International Airport or Narita International Airport is the better choice for your upcoming trip.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Haneda Airport is more convenient for accessing central Tokyo, while Narita Airport offers more flight options but requires a longer transfer.
Location and Accessibility
Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo
When it comes to location, Haneda Airport takes the crown. Located just 14 kilometers south of central Tokyo, it offers convenience and ease of access to travelers.
Being closer to the city center means less travel time and more time to explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo.
With its proximity to major attractions and business districts, Haneda Airport is a preferred choice for many travelers.
Whether you are visiting Tokyo for leisure or business purposes, landing at Haneda Airport allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently.
Narita Airport is farther from the city center but offers more public transit options
On the other hand, Narita Airport is located approximately 60 kilometers east of central Tokyo.
While it may seem like a disadvantage in terms of distance, Narita Airport makes up for it by offering a wide range of public transportation options.
Travelers landing at Narita Airport have the choice of taking a train, bus, or even a taxi to reach their desired destination in Tokyo.
The airport is well-connected to major train lines, including the Narita Express, which provides a direct connection to Tokyo Station.
Although the journey from Narita Airport to central Tokyo may take a bit longer compared to Haneda Airport, the availability of multiple transportation options makes it convenient for travelers to choose the most suitable mode of transport based on their preferences and budget.
Domestic and International Flight Options
Haneda has more domestic flight options
When it comes to domestic flights, Haneda Airport takes the lead.
With its extensive network of domestic airlines, Haneda offers a wide range of options for travelers looking to explore different parts of Japan.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido, Okinawa, or any other destination within the country, Haneda Airport has got you covered.
The convenience of having more domestic flight options at Haneda means that travelers can save time and money by avoiding the need for additional transfers or connecting flights.
Narita offers more international flight routes
If you’re planning an international trip from Tokyo, Narita Airport might be the better choice for you.
With its extensive network of international airlines, Narita offers a plethora of flight routes to destinations all over the world.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant streets of New York City, soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Bali, or immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Paris, Narita Airport has direct flights to many popular international destinations.
Additionally, Narita Airport is often the preferred choice for international travelers due to its larger size and capacity, which can accommodate more flights and passengers.
It’s important to note that both airports, Haneda and Narita, offer a mix of domestic and international flights. However, depending on your travel plans, one airport may have more convenient options for you.
It’s always a good idea to check the flight schedules and destinations offered by each airport before making your final decision.
Amenities and Services
Both airports offer amenities like restaurants, stores, and lounges
Whether you’re traveling through Haneda or Narita, you can expect to find a range of amenities that will make your journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
Both airports have a wide selection of restaurants, offering everything from local Japanese cuisine to international favorites.
You’ll also find a variety of stores where you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, electronics, and more.
And if you’re looking for a place to relax before your flight, both airports have comfortable lounges where you can unwind and recharge.
Haneda has faster WiFi while Narita has more lounges
When it comes to connectivity, Haneda Airport is known for its lightning-fast WiFi.
Whether you need to catch up on work, stream your favorite shows, or stay connected with loved ones, you can rely on Haneda’s high-speed internet.
On the other hand, Narita Airport may not have the fastest WiFi, but it compensates with a larger number of lounges.
This means that you’ll have more options to find a quiet and comfortable space to relax, especially during peak travel times.
While both airports offer amenities and services to cater to the needs of travelers, Haneda Airport stands out with its faster WiFi, ensuring a seamless online experience.
On the other hand, if you value having a variety of lounges to choose from, Narita Airport might be the better option for you.
Cost Considerations
Flying into Haneda is generally cheaper than Narita
When it comes to cost, Haneda Airport often offers more affordable options compared to Narita Airport.
This is because Haneda is primarily a domestic airport, which means that airlines operating there have lower landing fees and other operational costs.
As a result, many airlines are able to offer more competitive prices for flights to and from Haneda. So, if you’re looking to save some money on your airfare, flying into Haneda could be a great option.
Transportation costs from Narita to Tokyo can add up
While Narita Airport is located further away from downtown Tokyo compared to Haneda, transportation costs from Narita to the city can often be higher.
The airport offers several transportation options, including train, bus, and taxi services.
However, these services come at a price, and depending on your destination in Tokyo, the cost can vary.
Additionally, if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group, you may need to consider the cost of additional bags or larger vehicles, which could further increase your expenses.
One way to save on transportation costs from Narita is to take advantage of the Narita Express (N’EX) train service.
The N’EX offers direct connections to major stations in Tokyo and is a convenient option for many travelers.
Additionally, some hotels in Tokyo offer shuttle services to and from Narita Airport, which can help you save on transportation costs.
It’s important to consider both the flight and transportation costs when deciding which Tokyo airport to fly into.
While Haneda may offer cheaper flights, you should also factor in the cost of transportation to your final destination in Tokyo.
By comparing the overall costs, you can make an informed decision that suits your budget and travel needs.
Conclusion
When choosing between Tokyo’s two major airports, consider how close you need to be to the city center versus factors like flight availability and cost. For convenience, Haneda Airport can’t be beat – but Narita gives you more flight options.
Carefully weigh your priorities to decide if the extra distance is worth it. No matter which you choose, you’ll be starting your Tokyo vacation off right by flying into this world-class city.
