Wherever you’re in the world, if you are planning to visit the bustling Tokyo Metropolis, you have the option of two airports to make your arrival – Narita or Haneda. Though one of them is widely misperceived as a domestic airport due to its large number of domestic flights, they both receive their fair share of connecting international and domestic flights.
So, which is better? That would depend on several personal factors. Are you particular about airport service? Would you prefer a landing stripe close to your destination? Perhaps you’ll like a longer touring view of the city as you shuttle between the airport and your accommodation. Whatever your preference, your airline provider will likely have some influence on that choice, so confirm your destination airport before booking.
Narita or Haneda? Factors to Consider
- Location and Accessibility
Narita International Airport is located about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo and entertains multiple express railway options to get you to the city. Among these options include the JR Narita Express (N’EX), which serves many major train stations in the Greater Tokyo Area, and the Keisei Skyliner, which is cheaper than the Narita Express, but goes only to Ueno and Nippori stations.
Alternatively, if you are on a budget, you can take a bus or a taxi, however, your unpacking might have to wait a while. Driving from Narita to the city centre will take at least an hour and a half, depending on traffic during the time of the day you arrive.
Haneda Airport has a significant advantage when it comes to location. Unlike Narita, it is much closer to central Tokyo and is only 20 kilometers south of the city centre, offering quicker and more convenient access to the city. Transport options available here include the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line, as well as buses and taxis linking up various parts of Tokyo.
- Flight Options
Narita and Haneda airports serve many international destinations, but they are notable differences in terms of the types of flights they handle.
Historically, Narita has been the main hub for international flights, catering to a wide range of airlines and offering connections to multiple destinations around the world. If your travel itinerary involves flights to distant international locations, Narita might offer a broader selection of options.
On the other hand, Haneda International Airport has been the busiest airport in Japan for the past decade, handling over 80 million passengers yearly. In recent years, the international flight offerings in Haneda have been significantly expanded to accommodate up to 90 million passengers per year. While the airport still serves domestic flights, its international route network has grown, making it an increasingly attractive option for travelers seeking more direct connections to Tokyo from various countries.
The Bottomline
Narita and Haneda airports are both exceptional airports exhibiting notable distinctions. While Haneda boasts a distinct advantage due to its proximity to central Tokyo and long-haul flights, Narita accommodates a wider array of international airlines and presents a more extensive array of airport lounges to select from. Ultimately, picking either of the two should be a process you relish rather than worry over. Whichever you arrive on, you can be sure you’re landing in one of the very best airports Japan has to offer.
Are you looking to visit Tokyo anytime soon? Expedition Tokyo provides you with everything you need to know about accommodation, cuisine, tourist locations, and historical attractions in Japan’s Neon City.
