Photo by Taro Ohtani on Unsplash
So, you’ve landed at Haneda Airport, and you’re raring to start exploring Tokyo. But first you need to get to the city centre! Here’s how.
First the good news! Getting to Tokyo from Haneda Airport is easy and convenient, thanks to the many transportation options available. Whether you prefer the train, bus, taxi, or rental car, there’s a mode of transportation that will suit your family’s needs and budget. But which one is best for you? Especially of you’re toting kids? Here we break down the five best ways to get to Tokyo from Haneda Airport.
No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan ahead and research your transportation options before your trip. We also recommend purchasing a prepaid, rechargeable IC card, such as a JR East Suica Welcome Card (an e-money card valid for 28 days from purchase for use on JR East trains, subways and buses). Or a Pasmo card that can be used on all trains and buses in Tokyo and across the country where IC cards are used, as well as for electronic payments when shopping (these are only available to overseas travellers). Both cards are easy to use, and you can top them up as needed. Suica cards are obtainable at specified stations, including both Narita and Haneda airports. On the other hand, Pasmo cards can be purchased at numerous private railway stations, subway stations, and bus depots throughout Tokyo.
No matter which you choose, both will help deliver you to tourist delights that range from incredible food streets to cultural precincts like Harajuku, Ochanomizu and Shimokitazawa and, of course, the big ticket attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo Monorail
The Tokyo Monorail is a scenic and convenient way to get to Tokyo from Haneda Airport, and comes with bonus views of Tokyo Bay. The monorail runs from the airport to Hamamatsucho Station. The journey costs 490 yen and takes 24 minutes and from Hamamatsucho Station, you can transfer to other JR lines, Tokyo Metro lines, or the Toei Asakusa Line to get to your final destination in Tokyo, . The monorail station is located on the 3rd floor of the International Terminal and the 2nd floor of the Domestic Terminal. The Tokyo Monorail is covered by the Japan Rail Pass, so it’s an excellent option if you have purchased one.
Keikyu Line
The Keikyu Line is the fastest and cheapest option, taking about 15 minutes to Shinagawa Station, which is a major transit hub in Tokyo, and costing around 410 yen. You will find two Keikyu Line stations at Haneda Arport.
Terminal 1 & 2: The station is located on the B1 floor. You can access it by taking the elevators or escalators down from the Arrivals Lobby.
Terminal 3: The station is also located on the B1 floor. You can access it by taking the elevators or escalators down from the Arrivals Lobby.
You can purchase tickets from vending machines at the station. From Shinagawa, you can transfer to various JR lines or Tokyo Metro lines to get to your final destination in Tokyo. The Keikyu Line also offers limited express services to Yokohama and Kamakura.
Limousine Bus
If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more comfortable option, taking a limousine bus from Haneda Airport to Tokyo might be the best choice for you. The bus stops at major hotels and popular tourist spots in Tokyo, so it’s a great option if you’re not familiar with the city. The location of the limousine bus stop at Haneda Airport depends on which terminal you’re departing from.
Terminal 1: The limousine bus stop for Terminal 1 is located on the 1st floor, just outside the North Wing Arrivals Lobby.
Terminal 2: The limousine bus stop for Terminal 2 is located on the 1st floor, just outside the South Wing Arrivals Lobby.
Terminal 3: The limousine bus stop for Terminal 3 is located on the 1st floor, just outside the Arrivals Lobby.
You can buy your ticket at an Airport Limousine Bus ticketing counter in the arrival halls at Haneda for around 1300 yen per adult. The journey time varies depending on your destination, but it’s usually around 45-60 minutes.
Taxi
Taking a taxi from Haneda Airport to Tokyo is the most convenient option, as it will whisk you direct to the door of your hotel. But it will also be the most expensive. But, they are a great option if you are in a hurry, have a lot of luggage, or are traveling with a group that can split the fare. It’s also worth considering if you’re toting tired kids after a long haul flight. There are taxi stands located at all three terminals of Haneda Airport:
Terminal 1: The taxi stand is located on the first floor, just outside the Arrivals Lobby.
Terminal 2: The taxi stand is located on the first floor, just outside the Arrivals Lobby.
Terminal 3: The taxi stand is located on the first floor, just outside the Arrivals Lobby. There is also a designated “Excellent Service Taxi Stand” at Terminal 3, which is staffed by drivers who speak English and are familiar with the main tourist spots.
The trip will take about 30-40 minutes with a ballpark cost of around 5,000-7,000 yen. It’s worth noting that taxis in Tokyo charge a higher fare at night (10pm to 5am) compared to daytime, and you can expect a 20% increase during these hours. Taxis in Japan are clean, safe and extremely reliable, but be sure to to have your destination address written in Japanese to avoid any communication issues.
Rental Car
If you’re planning to explore Tokyo and its surrounding areas at your own pace, renting a car might be a good idea. Haneda Airport has several car rental companies on-site, so you can easily pick up your rental car upon arrival. However, keep in mind that driving in Tokyo can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. It’s also worth noting that with limited spacing, parking can be extremely difficult and very expensive in Tokyo, so you’ll need to ensure your hotel has parking and factor the additional expense into your budget. And be sure to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season. Most rental car counters are located on the 1F Arrivals Lobby.
Please note: Fares quoted are as at publication. Please check with operators for exact fares at time of booking.
An award-winning travel writer and photographer, Aleney de Winter was fresh from school when she first set off to explore the far reaches of Australia with a two-man tent and a beaten-up Kingswood for company. Three decades, and two kids later, and she's still on the go, with her itchy-footed offspring in tow. 