Haneda vs. Narita: Which Is Better?
Haneda Airport (HND) is Tokyo's closer airport, just 14km south of central Tokyo. Narita (NRT) is 60km east. If you have a choice, Haneda wins on convenience: the train to Shinjuku takes 30–40 minutes, versus 60–90 minutes from Narita. Haneda handles more domestic flights and increasing international routes. At similar prices, choose Haneda.
Getting to Central Tokyo from Haneda
Tokyo Monorail connects Terminal 2/3 (international) to Hamamatsucho Station on the JR Yamanote Line. Journey time: 18–23 minutes, fare ¥500. From Hamamatsucho you can reach Shibuya in 8 minutes and Shinjuku in 14 minutes. Runs every 4–5 minutes during peak hours. Accepts IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) and cash.
Keikyu Airport Line is often faster for central destinations. Trains run directly to Shinagawa (13 minutes, ¥310), Shinjuku (33 minutes, ¥630 via Keikyu Asakusa Line), and Asakusa (41 minutes). The Keikyu Line runs from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2/3 stations. For Shinkansen connections, go to Shinagawa—the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa is the standard route for onward rail travel.
Taxi to central Tokyo costs ¥4,000–7,000 depending on destination and traffic. Fixed-rate taxis to central zones average ¥5,500–6,000. Most practical for groups with heavy luggage or very late night arrivals when train service is limited.
Airport Limousine Bus connects Haneda to major hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station, and other hubs. Journey time 30–70 minutes; fare ¥1,000–1,300. Best for travelers heading directly to served hotels without luggage transfer hassle.
Terminal Layout
Haneda has three terminals. Terminal 1 handles JAL domestic and some international flights. Terminal 2 handles ANA domestic. Terminal 3 (International Terminal) handles all international flights. A free shuttle bus connects all terminals every 3–5 minutes. For domestic-to-international connections, allow 20–25 minutes for the transfer.
Facilities Worth Knowing
Terminal 3's "Edo-ko" area on the 4th floor recreates an Edo-period Tokyo streetscape with restaurants and shops—it makes airport time genuinely pleasant. The food is real quality: Tonkatsu Maisen, sushi counters, and ramen shops, not just airport approximations. If you have time to kill before departure, this is worth a visit.
Luggage storage is available at all terminals (¥400–700/day per bag at coin lockers; larger items at staffed counters). JAL and ANA lounges in Terminal 3 are accessible to premium cabin passengers and some credit card holders. 24-hour convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) cover last-minute needs.
Overnight at Haneda
For early morning departures or very late arrivals, staying at Haneda is practical. Royal Park Hotel The Haneda is connected directly to Terminal 2 via walkway—no need to go outside. First Cabin Haneda offers capsule-style accommodation within the terminal building at budget prices. Comfort Hotel Tokyo Haneda is a 5-minute shuttle ride from Terminal 3, reliable and affordable.
SIM Cards and Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is free throughout all terminals. SIM card and pocket Wi-Fi rental counters are in Terminal 3 arrivals—this is the most convenient place to pick up mobile data for your entire trip. Brands like IIJmio, b-mobile, and BIGLOBE offer 7-day and 30-day tourist SIMs. Pocket Wi-Fi (shared data device) is better for groups; SIMs are better for solo travelers. Prices run ¥2,000–5,000 for a week of data.
Currency and ATMs
Yen can be withdrawn at 7-Bank ATMs or Japan Post ATMs within the terminal—do this in the arrivals area before heading into the city. Airport currency exchange rates are poor; use the ATM instead. For context: the 7-Bank ATM in Terminal 3 arrivals accepts Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and most international cards with an English interface.
Practical Departure Tips
Terminal 3 international check-in opens 3 hours before departure for most airlines. Security and immigration move efficiently; arriving 2 hours early for international departure is adequate under normal conditions. If you're flying a budget carrier, confirm your terminal in advance—some use Terminal 1 or 2 for specific routes. The Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail both run from about 5:30am; the first trains can be tight for 6am departures, so confirm timing the night before.