Flying to Japan

Most travelers from overseas with land in Tokyo. Unless the flight is considerably cheaper, don’t even think about flying through Narita. It will save you both money and time because Haneda is so much closer to the city than Narita. In fact, Haneda is pretty much already in the city – it takes you about 30 minutes to Shibuya using the local train. Narita, on the other hand, takes about 40-90 minutes and you need to buy a rather expensive express train ticket to Tokyo.

I personally always use the airport limousine bus that is super cost effective and hassle-free. No need to lug my luggage around crowded train stations, no need to change and costing 1000-1500¥ depending where you go! Tickets can be bought in the arrival hall of Haneda airport at the bus ticket machines.

If your main goal is to explore Kansai, Shikoku or Kyushu make sure to also check flights to Osaka or Fukuoka to potentially save money and time.