Tokyo has two major international airports, and choosing the wrong one can add an hour — or save one — on your journey into the city. Here is an honest comparison to help you pick the right Tokyo airport.
Location: Haneda wins on proximity
Haneda (HND) lies just 15–20 kilometers from central Tokyo. Narita (NRT) is about 60–70 kilometers east — roughly an hour by express train. If your time in Tokyo is short, Haneda's proximity is a genuine advantage.
Terminals and layout
Haneda has three terminals — Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic flights, Terminal 3 serves international. The international terminal is modern, compact, and easy to navigate.
Narita also has three terminals — Terminal 1 for major alliances, Terminal 2 for more international carriers, Terminal 3 for low-cost airlines. Allow extra walking time.
Getting into Tokyo
- From Haneda: Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho in 15–20 minutes; Keikyu Line to Shinagawa in a similar time.
- From Narita: Narita Express to Tokyo Station in about an hour; Keisei Skyliner to Nippori/Ueno in around 40 minutes.
Haneda transfers are noticeably cheaper across every mode of transport.
Flights: which airport serves your route?
Narita generally offers more international flight choices, particularly with US carriers and low-cost airlines. Haneda's international network has grown enormously and wins on convenient flight times. Check both airports when searching — price and schedule differences can outweigh the transfer-time gap.
Which should you choose?
Choose Haneda if: your trip is short, you connect to a domestic flight, you arrive late or depart early, or the fare is similar.
Choose Narita if: it is significantly cheaper, your airline only flies there, or you fly low-cost.
Switching between them? Allow 3–4 hours — the inter-airport transfer takes 60–90 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Is Haneda or Narita closer to Tokyo?
Haneda, by a wide margin — 15–20 km versus 60–70 km.
Which is better for international flights?
Narita handles more international routes overall, but Haneda covers most major destinations now.
How do I transfer between Haneda and Narita?
Direct buses and trains take roughly 60–90 minutes.
Can I sleep at either airport overnight?
Both have rest areas, but a nearby airport hotel is the comfortable choice for overnight layovers.
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