Should I fly into Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT)?+
Haneda for almost everything. HND is 14 km from central Tokyo (monorail/Keikyū in 15-25 min); NRT is 60 km (Narita Express 60+ min, ¥3,070). HND has more international slots now than NRT post-2010 reform. NRT still handles overflow long-haul + some specific carriers (Singapore Airlines has both, JAL/ANA split domestically). Most major US/EU/Asia carriers fly HND.
How do I get from Haneda to central Tokyo?+
Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsuchō (¥500, 13-17 min) — connects to JR Yamanote line. Keikyū Line to Shinagawa (¥300-¥600, 15-25 min) — direct to Tokyo Station bullet trains. Limousine Bus to major hotels + Shinjuku (¥1,800, 30-60 min). Both train options run every 4-10 minutes during the day. Tokyo trains run from ~05:00 to ~00:30 (no 24h trains).
Which terminal does my airline use at Haneda?+
Terminal 1: JAL + Skymark + StarFlyer (all domestic). Terminal 2: ANA + Air Do + Solaseed (domestic + some Asia short-haul). Terminal 3: ALL international long-haul including ANA + JAL international, BA, Lufthansa, Air France, Singapore, Cathay, Korean, Emirates, Qatar, United, American, Delta, Air Canada, Qantas. Domestic-to-international connections require shuttle bus between T1/T2 and T3.
How early should I arrive at Haneda?+
Domestic: 60-75 min before flight (Japanese efficiency — bag drop is quick). International: 2-2.5 hours. T3 security can hit 30-min waits at 8-10am Asia departures. JAL + ANA passengers can use Smart Lane (Premium Class / J Class) for faster security. Japanese punctuality means flights ALWAYS leave on time; don't cut it fine.
Can I leave Haneda during a layover?+
Yes — Japan offers 90-day visa-free entry to most major nationalities (US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Korea, Taiwan + 60+ others). Use the monorail (13 min to Hamamatsuchō) or Keikyū (17 min to Shinagawa) to reach the city. Recommended for 5h+ layovers: Tsukiji outer market for sushi (1h round trip), Shibuya crossing (90 min), or stay in the airport — HND has Edo-themed shopping replicating old Tokyo.
What is special about Haneda Terminal 3?+
Opened 2010 (re-opened post-COVID restructure), T3 is the international terminal. The 4th-floor "Edo Komichi" replicates Edo-period Tokyo with red lanterns, a wooden bridge and shops selling traditional crafts + matcha sweets. The 5th-floor observation deck has full runway views — one of Japan's best free aviation spots. 24-hour open with restaurants until late.
