【Narita vs. Haneda】Airport Access Comparison: Reach Your Destination Like a Pro!
Hi everyone! I’m Ken, editor-in-chief of Tokyo Insider Guide.
The first hurdle of any Tokyo trip is getting from the airport to your hotel. Especially with Narita Airport being quite far from the city center, picking the wrong route can waste both your precious time and money.
In this article, based on the latest 2026 information, I’ve compared the “Fastest,” “Cheapest,” and “Most Comfortable” routes from both Narita and Haneda airports. Let’s find the perfect ride for your destination!
1. From Haneda Airport (HND): Proximity is Its Greatest Weapon!
Since Haneda is located very close to the city center, travel time is generally around 30 minutes.
| Transport | Main Destinations | Duration | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keikyu Line | Shinagawa, Ginza, Asakusa | approx. 15 min~ | approx. 400 yen~ |
| Tokyo Monorail | Hamamatsucho, Tokyo St. | approx. 18 min~ | approx. 500 yen~ |
| Limousine Bus | Major Hotels, Shinjuku | approx. 30 min~ | approx. 1,000 yen~ |
- Keikyu Line: The fastest way if you are transferring to the JR Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station. It also offers direct service to the Asakusa Subway Line, making it convenient for Higashi-ginza and Asakusa.
- Tokyo Monorail: Choose this if you want to enjoy the view of Tokyo Bay. It connects to the JR Line at the final stop, Hamamatsucho Station.
- Ken’s TIP: If you have heavy luggage, the Limousine Bus is your best choice. Trains can be extremely crowded during rush hour, making it a real struggle to board with large suitcases.
2. From Narita Airport (NRT): Choosing the Right Limited Express is Key!
From Narita, the best choice depends entirely on “where” your final destination is.
① Keisei Skyliner: The “Fastest” for Ueno & Nippori
One of Japan’s fastest trains, reaching speeds of 160 km/h. It gets you to Ueno in just 36–45 minutes. All seats are reserved and the cabins are very clean.
② JR Narita Express (N’EX): “Direct” to Tokyo, Shinjuku, & Shibuya
The best choice if you want to reach major hubs like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Shibuya without any transfers. A huge plus is that it’s covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass). All seats have power outlets and luggage locks.
③ Airport Bus Tokyo-Narita (TYO-NRT): For the Budget-Minded
At around 1,500 yen to Tokyo Station, this is the most affordable option. It runs frequently and allows you to sit throughout the journey, but keep in mind the risk of traffic congestion.
| Means | Destination | Time | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skyliner | Nippori / Ueno | ~40 min | 2,570 yen |
| Narita Express | Tokyo / Shinjuku / Shibuya | ~60 min+ | 3,000 yen+ |
| Cheap Bus | Tokyo Station | ~70 min+ | ~1,500 yen |
3. Three Rules to Master Airport Access
- Get an IC Card (Suica/PASMO): It saves you the hassle of buying paper tickets. For iPhone users, adding a card to your Apple Wallet in advance is the smartest move.
- Book Express Tickets Online: Both the Skyliner and N’EX often offer discounts if you book through their official websites before arrival.
- Taxis are the Last Resort: A taxi from Narita to central Tokyo can cost between 25,000 to over 30,000 yen. Unless it’s an emergency, stick to trains or buses.
Ken’s Final Advice
If I were advising a friend, I’d say: “If arriving at Narita, take the Skyliner to Nippori and transfer to the Yamanote Line.” It’s the best balance of time and cost. However, if you don’t want to navigate a complex station right after landing, booking a Limousine Bus that drops you right at your hotel entrance is the most stress-free way to go!
Summary
Narita and Haneda are the gateways to Tokyo. By understanding their characteristics and choosing the right route, your amazing journey begins the moment you land. Move smart, travel light, and enjoy Tokyo to the fullest!
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