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4 Best Ways To Get From Tokyo To Narita Or Haneda International Airports

Every year, millions of business travelers head to Tokyo for a trade show or to meet with clients. There are many factors to consider when traveling to the city’s two major airports of Narita airport and Haneda airport. After all, Tokyo is the world’s largest city with one of the most advanced and complicated transportation systems that even locals find it difficult to navigate. Knowing how best to navigate around can save a significant amount of time.

In the guide below you will find answers to the questions most business travelers have when traveling from Tokyo to Narita or from Tokyo to Haneda International Airport, including the journey time needed to travel between the most popular Tokyo destinations (e.g. from Tokyo station to Narita and Haneda airport, from Tokyo Big Sight to the airport, from Roppongi district to the airport) using Tokyo subway, buses, taxi or private car. You will also learn how to buy subway or bus tickets from the main Tokyo stations, the ticket costs for buses, subway, taxi fare and many more.

Which Airport Are You Heading To In Tokyo?

When deciding on which Tokyo airport transfer to choose from, it is important to first know which airport you are heading to.

• Narita International Airport – The first of the two airports in Tokyo is Narita International Airport, which is the larger of the two and handles the vast majority of the city's international flights. The airport is located on the outskirts of the city of Narita, which is 60km east of the center of Tokyo.
• Haneda International Airport – The second and older airport in Tokyo is Haneda International Airport. When it was replaced by Narita International Airport as the city’s main international travel hub in 1978, Haneda International Airport focused exclusively on domestic flights. Since 2010, however, the airport has started to handle international flights again. Just 14km south of the center of Tokyo, it is significantly closer than Narita International Airport.

Where Are You Departing From In Tokyo?

When visiting such a sprawling metropolis, it is equally important to know which part of the city you are leaving from.

• Tokyo Station – Located in Chiyoda, Tokyo Station is the largest train station in Tokyo and the busiest in all of Japan. From Tokyo Station, travelers can connect with the rest of the country with high-speed lines operating to places like Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, and Yokohama. In addition, 5 of the Tokyo’s subway lines are within walking distance of the train station.
• Tokyo Big Sight – The iconic Tokyo Big Sight is the city’s premier venue for exhibitions and fairs. The center is famed for its spectacular modern architecture and fair such as the Tokyo Motor Show and Eco-Products Fair are held at this venue in Koto.
• Roppongi – It would be difficult to say that Tokyo has one, clearly defined, downtown. There are a number of business hubs with plenty of nightlife spread out all over the city in areas such as Ginza and Shinjuku, which deserve mention. Here, however, Roppongi has been selected to represent the downtown area. The neighborhood boasts an impressive blend of successful businesses, fine dining restaurants, lively bars, and high-end hotels.

What Are Your Tokyo Airport Transfer Options?

There are several choices when deciding on your airport transfer to Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport. There are options for those traveling on a strict budget while business travelers can also find options more suited to those who prioritize comfort and convenience.

1. Subway Train –An option for the budget-minded visitor, the subway train is a cheap way to get from the city to either airport. It should be noted that it is not convenient for those traveling with luggage.
2. Bus– The cheapest option for a Tokyo airport transfer, the bus is the ideal choice for students and backpackers.
3. Taxi– For those who do not wish to use public transport to get to Haneda or Narita airport, taking a taxi is an alternative. While the taxi provides more privacy and comfort than the subway train or bus, there are still several risks that could cause delays.
4. Private Car– For the greatest comfort and convenience, the obvious choice is to book a private car. The service is tailored for business travelers who are on a tight schedule, for larger groups who need to book larger vehicles, and families with heavy luggage.

1. Tokyo To Narita Or Haneda International Airport by Subway Train
 

• Cost: Approx.JPY1200 – 3000 (USD10 – 27)
• Operating Hours: 07:45 – 21:45 (Narita Express), 05:00 – 01:00 (Tokyo Subway)
• Comfort & Convenience: 6/10

► What is the Tokyo subway train operating hours?

For Narita, there are two types of train to travel from Tokyo. There is the Narita Express service and also the regular subway service. For Haneda, there is only the regular subway service. Unfortunately, none of the trains run 24 hours.

Tokyo Station to Narita International Airport:

07:45 – 21:45 (Express Train), 05:00 – 22:43 (Subway Train)

Tokyo Station to Haneda International Airport:

04:49 – 23:52 (Subway Train)

Those who have a late-night or early-morning flight to catch are recommended to look elsewhere for their Tokyo airport transfer. Especially for early morning flights, you may not be able to find a service that can guarantee you will arrive on time.

► Can I take the Tokyo subway train directly to Narita or Haneda airport?

The Narita Express train heads directly from Narita International Airport through terminals 1 and 2 to Tokyo Station. If you need to take the train before or after the Express service is open, however, then you will need to use the non-direct normal subway train. In the case of Haneda Airport, there is only the non-direct service available to travelers. For those whose final departure point is not Tokyo Station, they will need to either make additional changes on the subway or seek other forms of transport.

► If not, how can I get to my final destination from my stop on the Tokyo Subway Train?

If you are required to make a line transfer during your journey to Narita or Haneda airport, there are some factors that should be considered first.Many of the stations are huge with multiple levels and platforms. Additionally, the transfers between lines can often involve long walks. What might look like a convenient trip with a couple of changes on a subway map, in reality, can involve several long walks.

► How can I buy a ticket for the Tokyo Subway Train?

The subway may be cheap, but they are not so straightforward to pay for your journey. The subway stations in Tokyo are mainly set up for local commuters using travel cards. First, you must find a ticket machine. Second, you must locate your station on the map of 285 stations. Third, you must make sure you have the local currency and the correct amount for your fare.

► Can I buy a travel card for the Tokyo Subway Train?

If you prefer to use a travel card than a ticket for your journey to Narita or Haneda airport, there are 3 options which are ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Suica card – The first of the two main travel cards in Tokyo is the Suica card. The card can be used on all subway services, as well as for onboard sales and to purchase goods in many of Tokyo's convenience store chains. Tickets can be purchased at JR East ticket offices across the city, including the kiosk at Tokyo Station.

Cost: Starting at JPY1,000 (Approx. 9USD), which includes a JPY500 (Approx. 4USD) deposit

Paismo card – The second of Tokyo’s main travel cards is the Paismo. Similar to Suica in many ways, the main difference is simply who the provider is. When you purchase your ticket, there is the option of a blank Paismo card or a named Paismo card. The named card will have your name on it, which you will need to replace a lost card, but you will also need to spend time initially completing the ID registration.

Cost: Starting at JPY1,000 (Approx. 9USD), which includes a JPY500 (Approx. 4USD) deposit

Subway 24-Hour ticket – If you prefer to purchase a simple subway ticket, then 24-hour subway tickets are available at all Tokyo subway stations. 48-hour and 72-hour options are available also.

Cost: 24-Hour Pass = JPY800 (7.3USD), 48-Hour Pass = JPY1,200 (11USD), and 72-Hour Pass = JPY1,500 (14USD)

► Can I use the Tokyo Subway Train if I have a heavy suitcase with me?

The Tokyo subway suffers from limited luggage space and it can be hard to find a safe and secure place to leave suitcases. Travelers are recommended to always sit in sight of their valuables and those with multiple items of luggage are advised to look at an alternative Tokyo airport transfer method.

► Can I use the Tokyo Subway Train during rush hour?

With 13 lines and 285 stations, Tokyo’s subway network can be daunting enough at the best of times. During the morning and evening commutes, the most popular subway lines can become dangerously overcrowded. If you are not watching closely, it can be very easy to miss your stop. Even if you are watching, it can be hard to force yourself past the other passengers on the subway as well as those on the platform trying to get on.

Journey by Tokyo Subway:

► Tokyo Station To Narita & Haneda Airport - Subway Journey Time:

► Tokyo Big Sight To Narita & Haneda Airport - Subway Journey Time:

► Roppongi To Narita & Haneda Airport - Subway Journey Time:

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2. Tokyo To Narita Or Haneda International Airport By Bus

• Cost: Approx. JPY3,000 – 3,500 (USD28 – 32)
• Operating Hours: Approx. 05:00 – 00:00 (Some night buses available)
• Comfort & Convenience: 6/10

► How long does the bus to Narita or Haneda Airport take?

While the local city bus is the cheapest option for travelers for their journey to either Narita or Haneda Airport, it is still inevitably slower than the other modes of transport on offer. For example, it takes almost double the time by bus to get to the airport from downtown as it would take if driven by private car.

► How do I pay for the bus to Narita or Haneda Airport?

When taking the bus, all locals will use the aforementioned Paismo and Suica travel cards. If you do not have this card, then you will be required to count out the correct change in the local currency, which can be quite stressful when you are unfamiliar with the notes and there is a queue of locals behind you waiting to board the bus.

► Is there space for luggage on the bus to Narita or Haneda Airport?

Most buses in Tokyo do not have a significant amount of space for luggage. If you have a large suitcase or multiple baggage items, you may not be able to find somewhere to store it. Even if you are lucky enough, you may be unable to see that your luggage safe and secure at each stop along the way to your destination. It is strongly advised to keep any valuables on your person where possible.

► Do the Tokyo bus drivers speak English?

Bus drivers in  Tokyo do not speak English. This can make it difficult for travelers heading to Narita or Haneda Airport to check they are boarding the right bus, to know which stop to get off at, and also to ask for help if any problems arise during the journey.

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Journey by Bus Breakdown:

► Tokyo Station To Narita & Haneda Airport - Journey Time By Bus:

► Tokyo Big Sight To Narita & Haneda Airport - Journey Time By Bus:

• Tokyo Big Sight to Narita Airport = 75 Mins
• Tokyo Big Sight to Haneda Airport = 35 Mins

► Roppongi To Narita & Haneda Airport - Journey Time By Bus:

• Roppongi Station to Narita Airport = 105 Mins
• Roppongi Station to Haneda Airport = 65 Mins

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3. Tokyo To Narita Or Haneda International Airport By Private Car 

• Cost: Check online for competitive rates
• Operating Hours: 24/7
• Comfort & Convenience: 9/10

► How can I travel in privacy to Narita or Haneda Airport?

By booking a private car for your journey from Tokyo to either Narita or Haneda airport, you can travel in complete privacy and comfort. Use that time to catch up on emails, make some calls, or take a rest before a busy day of meetings.

► Can I get an English speaking driver to go to Narita or Haneda Airport?

By booking a private car for your journey to Narita or Haneda Airport you can guarantee you will be traveling with a driver who speaks English. They will be on hand if any change to the travel plan is required and to handle any question you may have about your journey.

► Is it possible to book a private car for Narita or Haneda Airport from a choice of vehicles?

There are a number of options to book a car in Tokyo, with all services boasting a large fleet of car types. Whether you wish to travel in style with a Mercedes Benz S-Class or require a 9-seater like the Toyota Hiace, you can find the vehicle for you when you rent a car for your Tokyo airport transfer.

► Can I pay for my Narita or Haneda Airport transfer by card?

With a private car service from Tokyo to Narita or Haneda Airport, you do not need to worry about having yen, understanding the value of the local currency, or hassling about with travel cards. Payment for the private car is handled directly between the company and the customer, usually via online payment.

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Journey By Car Breakdown:

► Tokyo Station To Narita & Haneda Airport - Journey Time By Private Car:

► Tokyo Big Sight To Narita International Airport Journey Time:

• Tokyo Big Sight to Narita Airport = 60 Mins
• Tokyo Big Sight to Haneda Airport = 20 Mins

►Roppongi To Narita International Airport Journey Time:

• Roppongi to Narita Airport = 70 Mins
• Roppongi to Haneda Airport = 25 Mins

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4. Tokyo To Narita Or Haneda International By Airport Taxi 

• Cost: Approx. JPY6,000 – 8,000 (USD56 – 75)
• Operating Hours: 24/7 (Limited availability between 00:00 – 06:00)
• Comfort & Convenience: 7/10

► Where can I find a taxi in Tokyo?

One of the potential issues with getting a taxi in Tokyo is finding one in the first place. It’s not so common to be able to hail one off the street and so business travelers will most likely need to find a taxi rank. If you are unsure of where to find a taxi rank, head to a nearby tourist attraction or subway station. Once found, however, there is still the issue that the queues at taxi ranks can become long during peak hours and passengers can spend as much time in the queue as it takes to drive to the airport itself.

► Can I get a taxi for more than 4 people to go to Narita or Haneda Airport?

The vast majority of the taxis in Tokyo are standard size and cannot accommodate groups of more than 4 people. Large groups who wish to take a taxi will be forced to split into groups and take separate taxis. Separating the group when traveling in an unfamiliar place is best avoided when possible.

► Do taxi drivers in Tokyo speak English?

Generally speaking, taxi drivers in Tokyo do not speak English. There is a slim chance that some will be familiar with the major landmarks, but the majority of destinations will be unknown in English to most drivers. 

► Do I need to show the address of where I am going to take a taxi in Tokyo?

One way to work around the language issue with the driver is by providing the address of your destination written in the local Japanese language. This is not a foolproof solution, however, as even with the address there is no guarantee the driver will be familiar with the location. If you become lost then you will require a working local SIM card for your phone and the contact number of someone at your destination who can speak both English and Japanese to explain.

► How should I pay for a taxi from downtown Tokyo to Narita or Haneda Airport?

To pay for your taxi in Tokyo you will need to have the local yen currency. Normally, Tokyo taxi drivers will not accept foreign currency or cards. Even if you do have yen, it is important to familiarize yourself with the value of the currency to make sure you do not overpay. Furthermore, it is useful to be familiar with Tokyo so you know if the fare is correct for the distance of the journey.

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Journey By Taxi Breakdown:

► Tokyo Station To Narita International Airport Journey Time:

► Tokyo Big Sight To Narita International Airport Journey Time:

• Tokyo Big Sight to Narita Airport = 60 Mins
• Tokyo Big Sight to Haneda Airport = 25 Mins

► Roppongi To Narita International Airport Journey Time:

• Roppongi to Narita Airport = 70 Mins
• Roppongi to Haneda Airport = 25 Mins

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Make your Tokyo airport transfer stress-free and contact our 24/7 team at Bookings@Tokyo-Car-Service.com with questions or to get a quote. We're excited to offer you a $10 discount on your 1st service with our company, simply use this promo code  10CARBLOG (click the image below):

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