When flying from my country to Tokyo, should I choose Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND)? What are the pros and cons of each?

Tokyo TravelAirportsTravelTokyoTransportation
Created At: 8/15/2025Updated At: 8/18/2025
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Hey, I know exactly what you're talking about! Every time I help friends plan Tokyo trips, this is the absolute first thing to decide. Put simply, it’s like choosing between two train stations in a city: one right downtown where you step outside into the shopping district, and another way out in the suburbs where it takes an extra hour to get into the city.

No worries, I'll break it down for you. After reading this, you'll know exactly which one to pick.

Conclusion First (For the Lazy)

  • Prioritizing convenience, short on time, hate hassle? 👉 Choose Haneda (HND)
  • Prioritizing savings, price-sensitive about flights, don't mind extra travel time? 👉 Choose Narita (NRT)

Haneda Airport (HND) - The Convenient "Neighbor," Fast & Easy Access ✈️

Haneda's biggest advantage is its location. It's actually within Tokyo city limits (Ota Ward), super close to the center.

Pros 👍

  1. Close to the city, short transit time: This is the core advantage! Getting from Haneda to key central areas like Shinagawa, Shibuya, or Shinjuku by train/subway usually takes just 30-50 minutes. You can practically get to your hotel before your seat cools down! Very efficient.
  2. Cheaper transport: Because it's close, transport costs less. Taking the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail to central Tokyo costs just a few hundred yen. Taxis are still pricey, but compared to Narita, they can be a "grit-your-teeth and pay" option, especially late at night or if splitting with a group.
  3. Great for overnight/early flights: If you're arriving late at night or leaving very early, Haneda is the clear choice. The easy access means you won't stress about missing the last train or leaving your hotel painfully early.

Cons 👎

  1. Fewer international flights (comparatively): While Haneda has definitely increased its international routes, it still focuses more on domestic flights than Narita. Flight options to Haneda from your country might be fewer, especially with low-cost carriers (LCCs).
  2. Potentially more expensive flights: Airlines know everyone loves the convenience, so tickets on the same route to Haneda often cost more than to Narita.

Narita Airport (NRT) - The "International Gateway," Budget-Friendly with Tons of Flights 🌍

Narita isn't technically in Tokyo; it's in neighboring Chiba Prefecture. Think of it as the international airport serving the "greater Tokyo area."

Pros 👍

  1. Massive international flight selection: Narita was historically Japan's main international gateway. So, flights worldwide are incredibly abundant here. All the big airlines (and plenty of LCCs) operate here. You'll have way more choices.
  2. More competitive airfares: With so many routes and competition, especially from LCCs, it's easier to find cheaper flights here. If you're on a tight budget, the savings on airfare could buy you a couple of nice meals!
  3. Excellent airport facilities: As a huge international hub, it boasts a vast selection of duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges – great for browsing or relaxing.

Cons 👎

  1. Far from the city, long transit time: This is its biggest weakness. Getting from Narita to central Tokyo (e.g., Shinjuku, Tokyo Station) takes 60 to 90 minutes, no matter which transport option you choose.
  2. Expensive transportation: Distance equals higher costs.
    • The fastest options - Skyliner (to Ueno) or N'EX (Narita Express) (to Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya) - cost 2,000-3,000+ yen.
    • Cheaper airport buses or regular trains exist but add significant travel time and hassle.
    • DO NOT even think of taking a taxi from Narita to central Tokyo. The price will give you a heart attack (likely over ¥20,000).

So, How To Decide? Here are some scenarios:

  • Scenario 1: Family trip, traveling with kids, elderly, or lots of luggage

    • Recommendation: Definitely choose Haneda (HND)! No question. Avoiding an extra hour of travel right after landing boosts happiness significantly. Save your energy and time for fun, not a long train ride.

  • Scenario 2: Young backpacker, budget is king, plenty of time to spare

    • Recommendation: Focus on flights into Narita (NRT). Use the savings on flights for food and experiences. An extra hour on a train might not bother you, and you can see some "Japanese countryside" scenery along the way.

  • Scenario 3: Time-pressed business traveler or "marathon-style" tourist

    • Recommendation: Prioritize Haneda (HND). Time is money. Getting into/out of the city quickly lets you maximize every minute in Tokyo.

  • Scenario 4: Your hotel is in eastern Tokyo (e.g., Ueno, Asakusa, Oshiage near Tokyo Skytree)

    • Then Narita (NRT) becomes much more viable. Getting to Ueno, Asakusa via Skyliner or the regular Keisei line from Narita is very convenient and can sometimes even be faster than the route from Haneda.

My Personal Suggestion

If the price difference between the two airports isn't huge (e.g., within ¥5000 / $50 USD or so), I usually instantly choose Haneda (HND). The combined value of the time saved, reduced hassle, and lower transport costs generally makes it worthwhile. That feeling of getting to your hotel 30 minutes after landing and being able to dash out and start exploring? Narita just can't match that.

But if flights to Narita are significantly cheaper, or it's the only option with your preferred schedule, that's totally fine too. Japan's transport system is famously efficient and easy to navigate. The longer journey is comfortable, well-signposted, and could just be part of the adventure.

Hope this breakdown is helpful. Have an awesome time in Tokyo! 🎉

Created At: 08-15 05:22:18Updated At: 08-15 10:05:04