December 30, 2025 (1y ago)
Travelers flying into Tokyo face a key choice: Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita Airport (NRT). Both serve international and domestic routes, but differences in flights, costs, and access to the city center shape the best pick for your trip.
Narita handles a broader array of international arrivals, especially from Europe, North America, and budget carriers. Airlines like Jetstar, AirAsia, and Cebu Pacific favor Narita for direct flights to Tokyo.
This variety lets you find schedules matching your needs—early mornings, late nights, or connections. Haneda focuses more on Asia and premium routes from major hubs like Singapore or Seoul.
Low-cost carriers flock to Narita, driving down prices across the board. Full-service options follow suit.
For instance, Singapore Airlines charges about $810 from Singapore to Haneda versus $660 to Narita in the same class—a 20% savings. Other routes show 30-50% gaps, freeing up yen for Tokyo ramen or Shibuya shopping.
Haneda sits just 15-20 km from central Tokyo, reaching areas like Ginza in 30 minutes by train or taxi.
Narita lies 60-85 km east, doubling travel time to about 60 minutes via the Narita Express (N'EX) or Keisei Skyliner. City traffic rarely slows these efficient lines.
Fares reflect the distance: Haneda trains cost around ¥500 ($3.50), while Narita runs ¥3,000 ($20). That $16-20 difference shrinks with a JR Pass, which covers N'EX fully. Narita also offers more direct rail links to stations like Shinjuku, Ueno, and even Yokohama.
| Aspect | Haneda (HND) | Narita (NRT) |
|---|---|---|
| Distance to center | 15-20 km | 60-85 km |
| Travel time (to Tokyo Station) | 30 min | 60 min |
| Train fare | ¥500 ($3.50) | ¥3,000 ($20) |
| JR Pass coverage | Partial | Full (N'EX) |
Haneda edges out for proximity, but Narita competes strongly on price and flexibility. Match your priorities—cost, schedule, or speed—and book accordingly for a seamless Tokyo arrival.