Narita vs Haneda airport which is better? For a complete and easy trip to Japan, let’s join us to get detailed information on How to get from Narita airport to downtown Tokyo and also from Haneda to city center to start your journey to explore the beautiful land of the rising sun that compiled by Klook in this article!
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If any of you is preparing to book a flight to Tokyo, but is wondering which airport is the most convenient to land at, how to get to the hotel more easily, how to stay overnight, …. then don’t worry, because we are here. In this article, we will tell you all the useful information about the two main airports in Tokyo, Narita and Haneda, as well as how to get from these two airports to Tokyo city center, ensuring you will have a better vacation than expected.
Narita Vs Haneda: Should I Choose Narita Or Hadeda Airport?
If you are looking for a flight to Tokyo, you will probably often hear two familiar names: Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND). This seems to make you confused about which is the most reasonable choice. So let’s decode the differences between these two airports and see which is the most convenient choice for you!
| Criteria | Narita Airport (NRT) | Haneda Airport (HND) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | About 60 km from Tokyo, located in Narita, Chiba Prefecture | About 15–20 km from central Tokyo, located in Ota, Tokyo |
| Travel time to the center | 50–70 minutes (N’EX or Skyliner high-speed train) | 20–40 minutes (monorail, Keikyu Line or taxi) |
| Flight type | Mainly long haul international, major & low cost carriers | Mainly domestic and near international, focusing on Asian flights |
| Featured Airlines | ANA, JAL, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Jetstar, United | ANA, JAL, Air Do, Starflyer, Vietnam Airlines (some flights) |
| Scale & Service | Bigger, more restaurants, duty free shopping | Compact, fast internal movement, convenient for short transit |
| Popularity with tourists | Higher due to more international flights from Vietnam | Depends on the airline – some Vietnam Airlines and ANA flights land at Haneda |
| Overall | Suitable if you need flexible fares and long-haul flights | Suitable if you want to save travel time in Tokyo |
Narita Airport Information
Keisei Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
Narita Airport is one of the two main international airports serving the Tokyo metropolitan area. With a wide flight network, this is often a popular choice for international trips to and from Japan. Many major airlines such as Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Jetstar, or United Airlines operate flights from this airport with stable frequencies, helping you easily arrange an itinerary that suits both time and budget.
Although located about 60 km from central Tokyo – further than Haneda Airport, traveling from Narita is not complicated. You can choose the Narita Express (N’EX), Keisei Skyliner, limousine bus, or private car service to get into the city with flexible times and diverse prices. If you have a schedule in advance, pre-booking your transportation through Klook will help you save time and avoid unnecessary problems when you first arrive in Japan.
Haneda Airport Information
Narita Airport – Tokyo Limousine Bus
Haneda Airport (HND) is now one of the busiest airports in Asia and is no longer limited to domestic flights as before. In recent years, Haneda has continuously expanded its international network, especially routes to Asia, Australia and North America. Many major airlines such as Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), Qantas, or Singapore Airlines have operated flights to Tokyo via Haneda – a more convenient option if you want to save travel time.
The airport is only about 15–20 km from central Tokyo, making it easy to get into the city in less than an hour by Tokyo Monorail, Keikyu train, or taxi. With a short layover, light luggage, or a tight schedule, landing at Haneda makes your trip much more flexible.
What to Eat, What to Do at Narita Airport? Suggested Experiences from the First Hours in Japan
Narita is one of Tokyo’s two largest international gateways, and if you land here, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just a transit point. With three separately operated terminals, each area has its own personality and enough services to help you start (or end) your trip in the most pleasant way.
Terminal 1 is the largest area, divided into North and South areas, and usually serves traditional airlines. Terminal 2 is slightly smaller, and is the hub of many major airlines such as JAL or Qatar Airways. Terminal 3 serves low-cost carriers (LCC), with a simple, convenient and pedestrian-friendly design.
In terms of cuisine, Narita offers nearly 90 restaurants, cafes and bars. From traditional Japanese dishes to modern fast food – if you have a few hours to wait between flights, this is the ideal time to discover the first taste of Japan.
Sushi Yuraku – Level 4, Terminal 1
You don’t need to leave the airport to find a quality sushi bar. Sushi Yuraku uses seafood from the Tokyo Bay area and is served counter-style, where the chef prepares it right in front of you.
McDonald’s Japan – Level 4, Terminal 2
If you want to start off light, but still want to try local flavors, try the Teriyaki Burger, Samurai Mac or Shaka Shaka Chicken – special dishes only available in Japan, with a Japanese menu with clear pictures, making it easy to order.
Food Court Terminal 3 – Level 4, Terminal 3
True to the spirit of “delicious – fast – economical”, the food court at Terminal 3 brings together many national dishes such as udon, ramen, gyoza, and Japanese BBQ options. Open space, fast service, easy to take away – ideal for passengers on the go.
Tips
WonderREX (Tsukuba, Narita, AsakusaROX 3G) Discount Coupon
- If you have a longer wait, you can visit Kabuki Gate in Terminal 1. This is an exhibition area inspired by traditional Japanese art, where passengers can try on Samurai costumes, pose in traditional settings, or learn about Kabuki makeup through interactive displays.
- Before leaving the gate, don’t forget to stop by the duty-free shops and souvenir shops in Terminals 1 and 2. This is the ideal place to pick up some local snacks, limited-flavored kit kats, or small gifts with famous manga/anime characters – a very Japanese farewell.
How to Traveling Between Terminals at Narita Airport – Japan
At Narita Airport, moving between terminals is not complicated. The most popular way is to use the free shuttle bus, which operates continuously from early morning to late at night, stopping at a clear point right outside the arrival and departure halls of each terminal. The average waiting time is only 7–10 minutes, suitable for both transit and internal travel.
For Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, the distance is only about 500 meters – you can completely walk. This walkway has a roof, clear color guide lines and signs in both English and Japanese. If you have light luggage or extra time, this is a flexible and easy option.
Keisei Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
In addition, JR East trains connect directly to Terminals 1 and 2, making it easy to travel to central Tokyo or to other cities. However, Terminal 3 does not currently have its own terminal, so if you land or depart here, using a shuttle bus is still the most convenient way to connect to the train lines.
From Narita Airport to Tokyo: Easy, Many Options, and Bookable
Getting from Narita Airport to central Tokyo is easy – and you can find a way to suit your schedule and budget. If you want peace of mind from the moment you arrive in Japan, you can book your airport transfer in advance on Klook – both private and shared cars are available, with transparent prices and drivers picking you up at your door.
If you don’t have a plan in advance, you can still easily call a taxi or limousine bus right at the terminal. However, it should be noted that taxis from Narita to Tokyo are quite expensive, as the distance is up to 60 km. Additionally, Uber is also available at the airport, but the number of cars is limited and the price is usually higher than traditional taxis.
Narita Airport (Terminal 1) to Shinjuku train station
If you already own a JR Pass, the Narita Express (N’EX) is an ideal choice – it is free within the pass, and connects directly to major stations such as Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinjuku with a time of only 55–70 minutes.
Some Popular Options From Narita to Tokyo (Updated 2025):
| Vehicle | Reference price (VND) | Travel time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limousine Bus (Klook) | From 520,000 (adult) / 260,000 (child) | ~90–120 minutes | Can select specific destinations within the city |
| Private Car Service (Klook) | From 3,340,000 | ~60 minutes | Pick up at your door, convenient if you travel in a group or have a lot of luggage |
| Car sharing service (Klook) | From 1,240,000 | ~90–120 minutes | Pick up/drop off on fixed schedule, more economical |
| JR Narita Express (JR Pass) | Free (if you have JR Pass) | ~55 minutes | Tickets must be changed in advance, seats are by train carriage |
| Traditional taxi | From 4,190,000 | ~60–90 minutes | No reservation required but high cost |
Experience Haneda Airport – Compact, Close and Interesting Enough to Make You Want to Stay Longer
Haneda Airport (HND) – a favorite destination for those who want to get to Tokyo quickly – is not only convenient because it is close to the center (only about 15–20 km away), but also because of its modern and sophisticated service system.
The airport is divided into three main areas: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 serve domestic flights, while Terminal 3 is for international flights. All three are equipped with free Wi-Fi, public bathrooms, rest areas, lounges, and even airport hotels (Transit Hotels) – perfect for early flights or long layovers.
The cuisine at Haneda is also a big plus. From ramen, soba noodles to wagyu beef or European-style coffee, the restaurants here are not only diverse in flavor but also highly rated for quality. However, you should note: many restaurants in Terminals 1 and 2 will close before 9:00 PM, while Terminal 3 operates all night – a reasonable choice if you arrive at the airport late.
Suggestions for What to Eat in Haneda?
Yakiniku Champion – 4th Floor, Terminal 3 (International)
Without leaving the airport, you can still enjoy premium wagyu beef in the true yakiniku style – grilling it yourself at your table to your liking. This famous restaurant is the perfect place to start or end your trip to Japan with rich flavors and a unique culinary experience.
Ramen Setagaya – 4th Floor, Terminal 3
A hot bowl of ramen is always a must-try in Japan, and Setagaya is a reliable place. With many famous versions of ramen, the restaurant is open 24/7, ensuring to serve any hungry stomach whether you arrive at Haneda early in the morning or at midnight.
Planetarium Starry Cafe – 5th Floor, Terminal 3
If you want to relax more after your journey, stop by the cafe where you can “see the universe”. Starry Cafe is where you can sip coffee while watching the projection of more than 40 million stars on the dome ceiling – a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
Just a little tip!
Tokyo Luggage Services by LuggAgent (To/From Narita Airport/Haneda Airport/Tokyo Downtown)
- If you have a longer wait, you can stop by the Discover Museum – Level 3, Terminal 2. This small museum displays artworks, crafts and exhibitions revolving around Japanese culture – from traditional items to modern historical illustrations. An ideal stop for those curious to learn more about the country they have just arrived (or are about to leave).
- Need to kill some time or find some last-minute souvenirs? Haneda has you covered. A wide range of fashion boutiques, bookstores, convenience stores and famous brands are clustered around the main floors of Terminals 1 and 3. If you like to shop duty-free, Tiat Duty Free Shop – Level 3, Terminal 3 is open 24 hours, selling everything from alcohol and perfume to cosmetics and authentic souvenirs.
How to Get Between Terminals at Haneda Airport – Japan
Getting between the three terminals at Haneda Airport is quite convenient, with many suitable options whether you are in transit, changing flights or simply have free time to explore other areas of the airport.
The most popular is to use the internal shuttle bus (Free Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus). The buses operate continuously with a frequency of about 10-15 minutes/trip, stopping right in front of the arrival hall of each terminal:
Narita Airport – Tokyo Limousine Bus
- Terminal 8 – Terminal 1
- Terminal 9 – Terminal 2
- Terminal 0 – Terminal 3 (International)
Travel time between terminals is only about 7-10 minutes, no reservation required and completely free.
In addition, Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line are also two inter-terminal travel options, but mainly for passengers transferring between domestic and international flights. You need to present a valid boarding pass at the support counter to receive a free train ticket. This is a suitable choice if you want to move quickly during busy hours.
If you like walking and have light luggage, you can try the tunnel connecting Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The walkway has an escalator support, about 400m long – enough for a light stroll if you have time between two flights.
From Haneda Airport to Central Tokyo: Flexible Options and Easy Pre-Booking
Tokyo Haneda International Airport Transfers
After a long flight, getting from Haneda to central Tokyo doesn’t take too much time or effort. From taxis, trains to shuttle services – there are many ways for you to start your journey in Japan in the most comfortable way.
If you want to be proactive and worry-free after landing, you can pre-book a private or shared transfer service right on Klook. The driver will pick you up at the arrival hall, assist with your luggage and take you to your hotel – especially suitable if you are traveling in a group, have a lot of luggage or fly at night.
Narita International Airport Transfers
In addition, means of transport such as taxis, limousine buses, Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line trains are all stable and easy to use. Haneda is located closer to the center than Narita, so travel time and costs are also significantly saved.
| Vehicle | Reference price (VND) | Travel Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limousine Bus (Klook) | From 520,000 (adult) / 160,000 (child) | ~40–60 minutes | Stops at many central locations, convenient pre-booking |
| Private Car Service (Klook) | From 2,600,000 | ~30–45 minutes | Suitable for groups or multiple luggage |
| Car sharing service (Klook) | From 1,000,000 | ~45–60 minutes | Reasonable cost, sharing a fixed route |
| JR Pass (if already available) | Free | Use for the appropriate train route (depending on destination) | |
| Tokyo Monorail | From 82,000 | ~20–25 minutes to Hamamatsucho | Good connection with JR Yamanote Line |
| Keikyu Line | From 45,000–65,000 | ~25–30 minutes to Shinagawa | Convenient train route, reasonable price |
| Traditional taxi | From 940,000 | ~30–50 minutes | Fixed night rates may increase |
| Uber (if available) | From 1,170,000 | ~30 minutes | Limited number of vehicles, depending on rush hour |
Getting around Japan’s airports becomes easier and more convenient when you “memorize” the tips that Klook shares. So don’t let transportation become a concern in your journey to explore this land of the rising sun, but take the time to “enjoy” the memorable “moments” of the trip!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to
- Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
- Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
- Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
- Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
- Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
- TeamLab Planets Ticket
- TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
- Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass
- Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
- 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
- JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?
