Overview
Landing in Tokyo and not sure whether to use Narita or Haneda Airport?
This up-to-date 2026 guide clearly explains the differences between Tokyo’s two major airports and shows you the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective ways to reach Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ueno.
Instead of comparing dozens of routes yourself, you’ll find:
- A simple Narita vs Haneda comparison
- The best transport option for each Tokyo area
- Updated train, bus, and transfer prices for 2026
- Practical tips for JR Pass users and first-time visitors
If you want to avoid confusion after a long flight and start your Japan trip smoothly, this guide will help you choose the right airport and the best route—before you even land.
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Narita vs Haneda (2026): Which Airport Is Better?
Haneda is closer (about 20 km) and usually cheaper to reach central Tokyo, while Narita offers more long-haul and low-cost carrier routes.
| Factor | Narita (NRT) | Haneda (HND) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical time to central Tokyo | approx. 60–90 min | approx. 20–40 min | Haneda wins (speed) |
| Typical cost | ¥2,580–¥3,600 | ¥330–¥1,400 | Haneda wins (budget) |
| Best rail options | N’EX / Skyliner | Keikyu / Monorail | Depends on area |
Full comparison guide:
Narita vs Haneda – Complete 2026 Guide
Best Routes by Destination (Fastest & Easiest)
Tokyo Station
- From Narita: Narita Express (N’EX) → Tokyo Station (comfortable, reserved seats)
- From Haneda: Keikyu to Shinagawa + JR, or Monorail to Hamamatsucho + JR
Shinjuku / Shibuya
- From Narita: N’EX direct, or Airport Limousine Bus if your hotel is served
- From Haneda: Limousine Bus is often easiest with luggage and hotel drop-off
Ueno / Asakusa
- From Narita: Keisei Skyliner to Ueno/Nippori (fastest rail option)
- From Haneda: Keikyu Line + subway/JR
Quick Comparison Tables (2026)
From Narita (NRT) to Tokyo
| Mode | Duration | Cost (one-way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Narita Express (N’EX) | approx. 53–80 min | ¥3,070 | Comfort / JR Pass users |
| Keisei Skyliner | approx. 40–60 min | ¥2,580 | Ueno / Asakusa stays |
| Limousine Bus | approx. 60–120 min | ¥3,600 | Hotels + luggage |
JR Pass users can use the Narita Express (N’EX) at no extra cost, making it one of the most convenient options from Narita Airport.
From Haneda (HND) to Tokyo
| Mode | Duration | Cost (one-way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keikyu Line | approx. 11–18 min to Shinagawa | ¥330 | Fastest & budget |
| Tokyo Monorail | approx. 13–20 min to Hamamatsucho | ¥520 | Scenic + JR connections |
| Limousine Bus | approx. 30–60 min | ¥1,000–¥1,400 | Luggage & hotels |
Arriving Smoothly in 2026 (What Most Travelers Forget)
1 Get connected first (Pocket Wi-Fi)
2 Planning regional travel after Tokyo?
3 First-time visitor tip
If this is your first visit to Japan, choosing routes that rely on JR lines can reduce stress by avoiding fare calculations and ticket machines at busy stations.
For detailed routes, ticket tips, and step-by-step instructions, use the guides below based on your airport and destination.
Detailed Step-by-Step Guides
- Narita → Tokyo (Full route guide)
- Haneda → Tokyo (Best transport options)
- Narita vs Haneda (Airport comparison)
- Tokyo → Narita (Return trip guide)
