Getting there

Tokyo has two main airports and each has its own quirks. ✈️ Here is how to get to central areas (such as Shinjuku or Tokyo Station) without spending more than necessary or getting lost.

✈️ 1. Narita Airport (NRT)

Narita is the main international gateway but lies about 60–70 km from central Tokyo, so planning your transfer is important.

• FAST option (Narita Express – N'EX): JR’s limited express service with direct trains to key stations such as Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya and Shinjuku. The journey takes around 60–90 minutes. It is comfortable but one of the more expensive options, at about 3,200 ¥ one way.
• BALANCED option (Keisei Skyliner): A fast train from Narita to Ueno or Nippori in the north of Tokyo in about 41 minutes. From there you can connect to the JR Yamanote Line and other routes. The fare is roughly 2,570 ¥.
• BUDGET options (Airport bus or Keisei Main Line):
  Bus: The "Airport Bus Tokyo–Narita" goes to Tokyo Station and other points for about 1,300 ¥, taking around 90 minutes depending on traffic.
  Train: The slower Keisei Main Line commuter trains take 80–100 minutes but also cost around 1,300 ¥.

Note: Narita Express often has special round‑trip offers that can make it better value. Narita Express Information & Tickets Keisei Skyliner Information Low‑Cost Airport Bus (TYO–NRT)

✈️ 2. Haneda Airport (HND)

Haneda is much closer to central Tokyo and usually more convenient for reaching the city quickly and cheaply.

• FAST option (Tokyo Monorail): A scenic ride over the water to Hamamatsuchō Station on the JR Yamanote Line in about 18 minutes. The fare is around 500 ¥.
• BALANCED option (Keikyu Line): Direct trains to Shinagawa in about 15 minutes for roughly 330 ¥. Some services continue to other areas such as Asakusa.
• COMFORT option (Airport Limousine Bus): Useful if you have heavy luggage or your hotel is on the route. Journey time is roughly 30–70 minutes depending on traffic, with fares around 1,400 ¥.

Tokyo Monorail Information Keikyu Line Access From Haneda Book Airport Limousine Bus

Final tip: For local trains from Haneda (Monorail or Keikyu) and the cheaper Narita options, using a Suica, Pasmo or similar IC card is very convenient – just top it up and tap in and out. For the N'EX and Skyliner, you need a reserved‑seat ticket.