Narita or Haneda - Which Tokyo Airport to Choose?

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo and wondering which airport to fly into? Tokyo has two major airports - Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. Each airport has its own advantages and characteristics, so its important to know the differences to make an informed choice. Lets take a closer look at Narita and Haneda airports to help you decide which one is best for your Tokyo adventure.

Narita International Airport

Narita International Airport, located in Chiba prefecture, is the busiest airport in Japan and serves as the primary international gateway to Tokyo. Here are some key points to consider about Narita:

1. Distance from Tokyo: Narita Airport is situated approximately 60 kilometers east of central Tokyo. The journey to the city takes around 60-90 minutes by train or bus, depending on your final destination.
2. International Flights: Narita Airport handles a large number of international flights from around the world, making it a popular choice for international travelers.
3. Airlines: Many major airlines, including Japans flagship carrier Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways, operate from Narita Airport.
4. Facilities: The airport offers a wide range of facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, luggage storage, and even a traditional Japanese cultural experience.
5. Tourist Attractions: While Narita Airport itself is not located in central Tokyo, it has its own nearby attractions such as Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, where you can experience Japanese culture and history.

Haneda Airport

Haneda Airport, officially known as Tokyo International Airport, is another major airport serving the Greater Tokyo Area. Lets take a look at what Haneda has to offer:

1. Distance from Tokyo: Haneda Airport is located much closer to central Tokyo, only about 15 kilometers south of the city center. This makes it more convenient and faster to reach your destination in Tokyo.
2. Domestic and International Flights: While Narita is mainly an international airport, Haneda handles both domestic and international flights. Its the primary hub for domestic flights within Japan.
3. Airlines: Many domestic and low-cost carriers operate from Haneda Airport, making it a preferred choice for travelers visiting other destinations within Japan.
4. Facilities: Haneda Airport offers a wide range of facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and even a rooftop observation deck where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.
5. Tourist Attractions: As Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo, it provides easier access to popular tourist spots and neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza.

Which Airport Should You Choose?

Choosing between Narita and Haneda Airport depends on various factors such as your flight options, destination within Japan, and personal preferences. Heres a quick summary to help you decide:

• If you have an international flight or prefer a wider range of airline choices, Narita Airport may be the better option.
• For domestic flights within Japan or if you want to reach central Tokyo quickly, Haneda Airport is more convenient.
• Consider your final destination and the transportation options available to decide which airport is more accessible for you.
• Lastly, if you have extra time between flights or wish to explore nearby attractions, Narita Airport provides opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Ultimately, both airports offer excellent facilities and services, ensuring a smooth entry and exit from Tokyo. Whichever airport you choose, Tokyos wonders await you!