Arriving in Tokyo, a metropolis brimming with culture, history and dazzling neon lights, marks the start of an unforgettable journey. However, before diving into the endless excitement of this city, travellers must make an important decision: which airport to choose, Haneda or Narita?

Tokyo itself is served by two main airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Knowing the advantages of each airport can greatly affect your arrival experience before exploring the beauty and uniqueness of this country. To help you decide which airport to choose, Traveloka has summarised some of the pros and cons of Haneda and Narita. Check out the full information in the article below!

Each of Tokyo's airports, Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND), cater to different styles of travellers. Here are some key points you can consider when choosing a landing airport in Tokyo.

As Tokyo's historic international hub, Narita has advantages for international travellers, especially those coming from outside Asia. Narita usually offers a larger selection of international flights, including long-haul destinations, thus providing more options for your itinerary. Additionally, adventurous travellers on a budget may find Narita more appealing. Flights arriving at Narita can sometimes be slightly cheaper, and the airport may have lower facility fees.

For travellers looking to get into the heart of Tokyo quickly, Haneda Airport is best. Located just 20 kilometres from the city centre, Haneda provides a convenient and time-efficient option. A short train ride will get you to the heart of Tokyo in less than 30 minutes, allowing you to make the most of your precious vacation time.

In addition, Haneda also caters to those who wish to venture outside of the capital city. With a strong domestic network, Haneda serves as a gateway to other exciting destinations in Japan. Whether you seek tranquility in the ancient temples of Kyoto or the majestic slopes of Hokkaido, Haneda offers seamless connections to propel you further into your Japanese adventure.

Ultimately, the ideal airport depends on your travel preferences. If exploring Tokyo's vibrant streets and embarking on a domestic journey is your primary goal, Haneda's close proximity and extensive domestic connections are unrivalled. However, if organising your budget or finding the ideal international flight is your top priority, Narita may be a better option. Whichever airport you choose, both Narita and Haneda provide efficient transport options to Tokyo and offer a range of facilities to ensure your arrival goes smoothly.

So, which airport is closer to the heart of Tokyo, Haneda or Narita? In terms of proximity to Tokyo, Haneda Airport is the best. Located only about 20 kilometres from the city centre, Haneda offers significant advantages. This means a quick and convenient commute, with a comfortable train ride taking you to the bustling streets of Tokyo in around 30 minutes. You don't have to fear getting lost! As Haneda provides direct access to the city centre, you can make the most of your time in Tokyo.

On the other hand, Narita International Airport, although not as close as Haneda, remains an excellent choice for many travellers. Located about 70 kilometres east of central Tokyo, Narita offers a slightly longer travel time (about 1-1.5 hours by train). However, this does not detract from its value, especially for those travelling to Tokyo on a budget.

While Haneda is indeed closer to Tokyo, deciding which airport is "better" will certainly depend on your travel preferences. If you want to get to the city centre quickly, Haneda is a great choice. However, if you prioritise finding the perfect international flight or prefer a slightly more budget-friendly option, Narita might be a better fit for your travel plans.

When comparing the size of Haneda and Narita airports, it is important to consider that the answer is not as simple as one might think. While both airports are spacious and well-equipped, they differ in terms of their main functions and layout, and here are the details.

Despite not having the official title of an international airport, Haneda Airport, also known as Tokyo International Airport, actually leads the way in terms of passenger traffic. This bustling airport serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights, establishing its position as one of the busiest airports in Japan. Although it is located close to the city centre, Haneda Airport efficiently manages large amounts of air traffic.

In terms of physical size, Haneda covers approximately 1,522 hectares (3,761 acres), which ranks it as one of the busiest airports in the world in terms of passenger traffic. The airport consists of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and the International Terminal, each of which offers a range of facilities and services to meet the needs of travellers.

Although it doesn't take the top spot overall, Narita Airport should not be underestimated. Historically, it has been Tokyo's main international gateway and remains the busiest international airport in Japan. Narita usually handles the majority of long-haul flights and international connections, making it an important entry point for travellers coming from outside Asia.

In terms of size, Narita Airport covers about 2,180 hectares (7,152 acres), which is larger than Haneda. The airport consists of three terminals, which are Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 (mainly serving low-cost carriers). Each terminal is equipped with a variety of facilities, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and various transport services.

When it comes to choosing between Haneda and Narita airports in Tokyo, the decision comes down to individual preferences. Haneda Airport appeals to travellers looking for quick access to central Tokyo and domestic destinations in Japan due to its convenient location and extensive domestic flight network. On the other hand, Narita remains a popular choice for budget travellers and those coming from non-Asian countries, offering more international flight options, especially for long-distance travel.

Both airports ensure a smooth arrival experience with efficient transport to Tokyo, so choosing the best option means aligning priorities with each airport's strengths. Whether you prioritise convenience, budget or flight availability, the Traveloka App provides an easy booking experience, offering a wide selection of flights for Haneda and Narita airports that can be tailored to your budget and preferences. Explore Traveloka for great deals on activities, flight, and hotel. Visit Traveloka for more information!