Flights to Tokyo (HND)

Arriving into Haneda Airport, Tokyo

Your plane will touch down at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, also known as Tokyo International Airport. Walking into Terminal 3, you’ll find everything you may need to get your trip started – from tourist information, ATMs and currency exchange to pre-paid SIM card vending machines and pocket WiFi rentals. If you need to unwind after your flight, indulge in some of Tokyo’s finest sushi, ramen, and yakitori, wander through the shopping precincts, or enjoy the rooftop hot springs at the newly opened Tokyo Airport Garden.

How to get from the airport into downtown Tokyo?

Luckily, Haneda Airport is only 15km from downtown Tokyo, which means it won’t take you very long to get into the centre of the city. You've got a few options that are easily accessible from Terminal 3.

Train

You've got two choices here: Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu train line. Fares are cheap, and both will get you into central Tokyo in minutes depending on where you need to go. Take the Monorail to get to Hamamatsucho Station to transfer to the Yamanote Line for Tokyo Station, Shibuya Station, and Shinjuku Station, or hop on the Keikyu Line for Shinagawa station.

Bus

Both the Keikyu Limousine and Airport Limousine are quick and easy options to get from Terminal 3 to downtown Tokyo – especially if you’ve got a few suitcases to manoeuvre. Buy your ticket from the bus counter within the terminal.

Taxi

You won’t miss the taxi ranks when you leave the airport. You can expect flat-rate fares to destinations in downtown Tokyo, and while a taxi is on the pricier side, they are direct and could be cost-effective if you’re travelling in a group.

What is the best way to get around Tokyo?

Tokyo is huge, and you may feel overwhelmed thinking about getting around. Fear not, because it’s pretty straightforward thanks to an excellent and easily accessible public transport system.

Subways and trains will help you travel from neighbourhood-to-neighbourhood with ease thanks to a vast network, English signage and colour-coded lines. Get yourself a prepaid Pasmo or Suica card to make things even more simple – and top-up at vending machines as needed. It could also be worth looking into unlimited day passes for better value. Buses are also a great option if you plan on visiting the outer suburbs or if you’re making short trips.

Taxis and Uber are also safe and easy to organise, but be warned that they can get quite expensive, especially at rush hour and for longer trips. If you’re hopping in one, make sure to bring a business card with your destination address.

And, given it’s a fairly flat city, there’s no better way to explore the streets and sights of Tokyo than on foot.

When is the best time to fly to Tokyo?

It’s always a great time to book a flight to Tokyo! While it has its peak seasons, there’s something for everyone and bucket list highlights all year round.

Tokyo in spring

Spring (March - May) is one of the peak seasons in Tokyo – not only because of the mild weather, but because of the famous cherry blossom season, which transforms the city when the flowers are in full bloom. It’s the perfect time to visit parks, wander the streets, and picnic between hitting the main attractions of the city.

What to pack for Tokyo in spring: Days are variable in spring, so it’s a good idea to pack layers, including a jacket, and closed, comfortable shoes. 

Tokyo in summer

While summer (June - August) gets hot, humid, and a bit rainy, it’s when Tokyo literally lights up with buzzing street fairs and firework shows – one of Japan’s most impressive fireworks displays illuminates the skies above the Asakusa district unlike anything you've ever seen. And for the hikers and nature lovers: just out of Tokyo, Mt Fuji’s hiking routes open in July.

What to pack for Tokyo in summer: Light, breathable fabrics and a wide-brim hat will see you through a summer in Tokyo, and don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket and portable umbrella to keep you covered during the rainy season.

Tokyo in autumn

Autumn in Tokyo (September – November) is another peak travel season and brings beautifully temperate weather to see the sights of the city, including the change in foliage and moon-viewing gatherings. Halloween is a particularly festive affair, with thousands visiting the famous Shibuya Crossing for a big, extravagant street party.

What to pack for Tokyo in autumn: Days can be warm, and mornings and nights cool, so pack layers.

Tokyo in winter

December to February in Tokyo is cold and dry with fewer crowds, but it’s no less impressive to visit. The city twinkles with winter illuminations and light-up displays, and there’s nothing quite like visiting the Sensoji Temple and Meiji-jingu Shrine to see the religious new year ceremonies in action. While snow in the city is rare, the snow-capped Mt Fuji is a sight to behold!

What to pack for Tokyo in winter: It’s not too cold to sightsee, but you’ll want to be rugged up. Thermals, a big coat, a scarf, and beanie will serve you well.

What are the top attractions in Tokyo?

You could easily spend a month in Tokyo and still have a healthy to-do list. From serene gardens, traditional cultural experiences and historical shrines, to bustling streets, shopping hotspots and futuristic structures, we guarantee you won’t be bored. Here are just a few of our top recommendations.

Shibuya crossing

The busiest intersection in Japan (and possibly the world), Shibuya crossing feels like the beating heart of Tokyo, with the never-ending flow and pulsating energy that comes from the hundreds who cross in all directions. Test your people-dodging skills right in the thick of the crossing, or enjoy the bustle from afar at Mag’s Park, a rooftop viewing area. Visit at dusk or at night for the full experience.

Senso-ji Temple

Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture by visiting Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Head to the historic Asakusa area and make your way to the vibrant red temple to visit the shrines, wander the gardens, and soak in the wafting incense smoke. Leave some time to explore Nakamise-dori's stalls selling crafts, souvenirs, and snacks.

Harajuku

You can’t miss the cute, colourful and quirky streets of Harajuku. Head to the iconic Takeshita Street and take in the incredible street-style and vibrant Kawaii culture, shop the trendy boutiques, and indulge in the unique, Instagram-worthy street food and snacks.

Tsujiki & Toyosu fish markets

What was once one of the world’s largest wholesale fish markets has now become two must-see (and taste!) destinations in Tokyo. Visit Toyosu Market to see the famous live fish sales in action and sample some of the best fresh raw fish at the sushi bars. Head to Tsujiki for the street-food stalls, restaurants, and famous knife stores.

Yoyogi Park

Take a short stroll from Harajuku to one of Tokyo’s biggest parks. Known for its immaculate sprawling lawns ripe for picnicking, sparkling ponds and energetic performers that can be enjoyed all year-round, Yoyogi Park truly comes to life in spring for hanami – cherry blossom viewing. Bring your sake and local snacks, find a spot under a pink-and-white canopy and soak in one of Japan’s oldest traditions. While you’re there, make sure to visit the nearby Meiji Shrine.

Ghibli Museum

You don’t have to be a fan (or even know) anime creator Miyazaki Hayao to enjoy the Ghibli Museum. With exhibitions dedicated to the work of Studio Ghibli, it’s an incredible immersive world of fantasy and fun that celebrates one of Japan’s most iconic artforms. Tickets could be hard to come by, so make sure to book yours well in advance!

Tokyo nightlife

Don’t count on quiet nights and early bedtimes when visiting Tokyo, because once the sun sets, the city illuminates, and the streets hum with a renewed energy. Make your way to the narrow streets of Golden Gai in Shinjuku and hop from dive bar to dive bar, or head to one of Tokyo’s famous izakaya alleys for some snacks, sake and beer with locals. If you’re looking for a boozy night and a bit of dancing, you’ll want to make your way to Roppongi and Akasuka.

Ginza

Posh Ginza is renowned for its high concentration of trendy and luxury international shops, but you’ll also be able to satisfy your cultural hankerings by visiting one (or several) of the art galleries and creative spaces. You’ll also find Tokyo’s famous Kabukiza, a kabuki theatre. Watch one of the traditional performances, or simply enjoy the incredible architecture of the building itself.

Imperial Palace

A rich part of Tokyo’s history, the grounds of the Imperial Palace are postcard perfection. While the home of Emperor and Empress is off-limits, the stunning architecture is impressive to view from the outside, while the national garden, moats and museums surrounding provide a quiet haven from the high energy of Tokyo city.

Akihabara

Pop culture is as much a part of Tokyo’s heritage as the traditional arts, museums and shrines, so don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the gaming arcades, electronics, anime and manga that make Akihabara so famous. For the adrenaline seekers, dress up as Mario and drive a go-kart through the streets of downtown Tokyo, and for a cosplay experience like no other, visit one of the neighbourhood’s Maid Cafes.

Where's the best area to stay in Tokyo?

Shinjuku, for the first-timers

A great neighbourbood for first-time travellers to Tokyo, Shinjuku offers an incredible atmosphere, with a vibrant nightlife, restaurants galore, and shopping for all budgets. Not only is it close to many of the tourist attractions, but it’s one of the city’s biggest transport hubs, so getting around won’t be a problem.

Ginza, for the shoppers

Boasting Tokyo’s largest shopping district with luxury boutiques and department stores, Ginza is the ultimate hub for retail therapy. But beyond that, it’s packed with casual and fancy dining options, bars for an end-of-day sake, and is close to public transport for day trips and sight-seeing.

Tokyo Station area, for the day trippers and sightseers

If you plan on moving around the city and out of Tokyo, staying near Tokyo Station will serve you well. It ticks all the boxes for shopping, eating, and local hotspots, but it has the added benefit of offering the widest network of public transport options in Tokyo, with daily departures to destinations far and wide.

Shibuya, for the trendsetters

Known for its youth culture, Shibuya is a great spot for the young and young-at-heart, with bars, nightclubs, restaurants and izakayas on every corner. Close to transport and with no shortage of fashion stores, you’ll have everything you need on your doorstep.

Asakusa, for the culture seekers

For those looking to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture, stay in Asakusa. You’ll be surrounded by temples, rickshaws and local fare, with the bonus of lower cost accommodation. It’s also close to Roppongi, hotspot and international favourite for the night owls, foodies and bar hoppers.

Where and what to eat in Tokyo?

It’s almost impossible to get a bad meal in Tokyo – and that’s regardless of if you’re looking for a cheap bite from a convenience store, a fancy meal, or a vending machine snack.

Shinjuku for yakitori and ramen

While you won’t struggle to find yakitori and ramen anywhere in Tokyo, you’re spoiled for choice for both in Shinjuku. For those on the hunt for ramen, you’ll have over 300 restaurants to choose from (no decision is a bad one!) and if yakitori is on the cards, make your way to the narrow, vibey laneway of Omoide Yokocho and take your pick from one of the 60-odd open-fronted spots.

Asakusa for traditional cuisine

The best part about travelling is enjoying the local delicacies, and Asakusa is packed with authentic restaurants offering the very best sukiyaki, tempura, unagi and sushi. Make it a truly special experience by eating a traditional kaiseki dinner while enjoying a geisha performance.

Ginza for a Michelin Star meal

Tokyo is equally as famous for its cheap eats as it is for its high-end, luxury dining experiences. With more than 200 Michelin star restaurants – the most in the world – your wallet would cop a significant hit, but we guarantee it would be well worth it to book into one. From fancy ramen to French cuisine, these restaurants are dotted around downtown Tokyo, but Ginza is famous for being home to so many.

Department stores for Depachika

When we said you could find good food everywhere in Tokyo, we meant it. Hidden down on the basement floors of any department store, you’ll find the most incredible food aisles that boast everything from hot food, bento, and desserts to wine, sake and seasonal fruits.

Harajuku for street food

Harajuku is for fashion lovers and foodies alike, with the streets teeming with snack stands, food stalls, and the most picture-worthy treats you’ve ever seen. A haven for those with a sweet tooth, you’ll find quintessentially quirky Japanese desserts, including crepes, cotton candy and fruit-filled mochi.