Touchdown in Tokyo: Maximize Your Haneda and Narita Layover

Traveling to Tokyo? You’ll touchdown in one of two places: Haneda Airport or Narita Airport. These two contemporary airports serve the Greater Tokyo Area and provide the modern must-haves any international traveler with a short layover can dream up. 

Thanks to Haneda Airport and Narita Airport’s outstanding features, avoiding boredom and fatigue in the terminal is easy. Read on to discover everything you need to know to love your layovers. From refreshing showers and cozy overnight accommodation to worldly restaurants, incredible facilities make your downtime a breeze.

Haneda Airport 

Haneda Airport, which is also referred to as Tokyo International Airport, has been awarded a 5-Star Airport designation by the SKYTRAX Global Airport Rating.

It’s a hub for a number of airline carriers, including Japan Airlines. And although it was originally constructed in 1931, Haneda Airport offers state-of-the-art transportation options as well as a number of contemporary comforts and amenities for the modern traveler, ranging from onsite restaurants, lounges, accommodations, and shops to art displays and observation points.

Ace the layover: where to rest, sleep, and shower

Whenever you touchdown, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll have a place to rest, refuel, and even repack, if you need to, during your layover at Haneda Airport. 

Open 24 hours, HND is always on for your convenience. While some shops and amenities close overnight, travelers can still access a number of the airport's many lounges, onsite accommodations, 24-hour bag check counters in the arrival and departure lobbies, powder rooms, and even restaurants, any time of the day. 

Kick back: where to rest at Haneda Airport

Haneda Airport offers convenient seating options across all terminals, including couches, benches, and furnished areas, all of which are great for resting when you have a layover in HND. 

If you’re spending more time in the airport, consider paying to access one of the multiple lounges, accessible for both international and domestic travelers, located throughout the Haneda Airport.

Lounge around: unwind in Haneda Airport JAL lounges

Haneda Airport has multiple lounges across its three distinct terminals. Travelers can unwind in the Japan Airlines Lounges, including the First Class Lounge or Sakura Lounge, located inside Terminal 1. 

First Class Lounge: The luxurious first class lounge comprises an expansive facility outfitted with its own upscale dining area, specializing in Teppan Dining, plus the JAL RED Suite consisting of four unique zones featuring a library, gallery room, play room, and bar. The First Class Lounge is ideal for adult travelers searching for a place to rest when at the airport.    

Sakura Lounge: The embodiment of Japanese hospitality, the Sakura Lounge is outfitted with sleek seating options for resting travelers and picture windows that provide views of aircraft and glimpses of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Hungry commuters can indulge in high-quality JAL specialty dishes and refreshments from a buffet-style service located within the lounge.

Catch some z’s: where to sleep at Haneda Airport

Haneda Airport is a 24/7 facility. And when it comes time to power down for the evening, or just catch up on sleep, day or night, you have options. Here’s where you can stay during a long overnight layover in Haneda: 

First Cabin

1F Arrival Floor, Terminal 1 

The onsite, budget-friendly capsule hotel offers two room options (Business Class or First Class) and all rooms are equipped with a safety deposit box, television, and Wi-Fi. Restrooms and dining services are shared. Accommodations are sparse and compact, but provide just enough comfort for rest. 

Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu 

Terminal 2

Located within Terminal 2, this airport hotel, with a 24-hour front desk, offers roomy accommodations outfitted with plush beds, television, private restrooms and showers, and windows overlooking the scenery. 

The hotel also offers family-friendly aviation-themed rooms, too. Shuttle service is available to and from Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu. And its onsite restaurant, Flyer’s Table, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Refresh: where to shower at Haneda Airport

Wash away your worries at one of Haneda Airport's private shower rooms. In a busy airport atmosphere, it's like your own personal oasis. 

Power Lounge Central

Terminal 2, 3F Domestic Departure Lobby

This shared lounge offers three private shower rooms, access to a lounge area, and a free soft drink with paid entry. 

Showers: 1,000 yen per 30 minutes; last entry at 7:30 PM

Power up: where to charge devices and connect to Wi-Fi

There are a number of convenient free charging areas located throughout Haneda Airport’s three terminals. Additionally, these walk-up charging stations offer Wi-Fi connectivity, courtesy of Haneda Airport.

Dining options at Haneda Airport: food courts, casual eateries, and restaurants with views

Hungry travelers can savor Tokyo-inspired cuisines, or pizza, even, at these airport restaurants. 

* Restaurant hours are subject to change

Terminal 1

Tokyo Chef’s Kitchen: This robust food court offers a wide array of cuisines ranging from Japanese Soba, Tonkatsu, and Yakisoba to pizza and pasta, Chinese food, and Western-style fare. 

Hours of operation: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

The Haneda House: Providing a casual dining atmosphere, this eatery offers a selection of Tokyo-inspired dishes and views of the airport. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Terminal 2

Nangokusyuka: This restaurant offers panoramic views of the sea and runway as well as a menu that’s brimming with Chinese cuisines and tropical liquor options. 

Hours of operation: 11: 00 AM to 3:00 PM;  Monday-Friday 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Airport Grill & Bar: Overlooking the runway, this restaurant specializes in grilled cuisines and hearty hamburgers. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Amici Del Te: A cafe with a view, this eatery doles out a selection of pancakes, pasta dishes, parfaits, soups, and sweets like soft-serve ice cream. 

Hours of operation: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Castelmola: Italian cuisines and charcoal-fired pizza are what’s on the menu at this friendly, European-inspired bistro with scenic views. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Terminal 3

Ginza Ogura: This casual eatery specializes in Japanese eats made with seasonal ingredients. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM 

Yakitori Soba Nishakugosun: Japanese cuisines like noodle dishes and tasty sake are available at this stylish concession. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Tailwind: All-day dining options including breakfast buffet, lunch, and a la carte options are available at this bar-meets-restaurant. 

Hours of operation: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Sightseeing in Haneda Airport: art, observation decks, and more

Searching for a way to pass the time over the course of your extended layover? Haneda Airport features artwork, observation points, and one-of-a-kind experiences for travelers, all within the airport’s three terminals. 

Terminal 1

Roof Observation Deck: Encompassing two floors, this rooftop observation deck provides panoramic, 360-degree views of the airport and aircrafts departing and arriving. 

Haneda Airport Shrine: Somewhat hidden, Haneda Airport Shrine is frequented by commuters who utilize the space to pray for safe travels. 

Doshin Juveniland Tokyo: Fun for the entire family, this diverse toy shop is home to unique toys from around the world, including nostalgic tin-plated toys, games, key chains, and a special collection by famous antique toy collector, Teruhisa Kitahara.

Terminal 2

Observation Deck: With views stretching from Chiba’s coast to Tokyo Bay, this scenic outlook boasts beautiful scenery as far as the eye can see. 

Galaxy: Depicting a dreamy skyscape, Galaxy ignites the imagination and encompasses a section of the ceiling with varying shades of deep blues, resulting in an almost window-like illusion. 

Lakeside in the Morning and Lakeside in the Evening: This duo of large-scale displays features iconic works from renowned Japanese-born artist Hiroshi Senju. Lakeside in the Morning is located on the south floor, while Lakeside in the Evening is located on the north floor. 

MOOON: Emblazoned in a blue hue and dotted with a galaxy, this unique gold-horned bovine is likely unlike anything you’ve encountered in an airport. Ideal for photo ops, MOOON is a mural-clad lifesize sculpture that depicts a celestial nightscape across the figure of a cow in a peaceful, resting position.   

Kaze no Keikoku (Wind Valley): If you don’t look up, you might miss it. Kaze no Keikoku, or Wind Valley, hangs high above the heads of travelers. The artful display features a series of seemingly floating banners portraying a picturesque nature scene that is composed of trees and clouds.

Terminal 3

Observation Deck: The Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree are among the sights you can see at this observation deck. Travelers can also see international aircraft up close here. And this observation deck boasts the best nighttime views. 

Haneda Nihonbashi: Symbolizing the first step toward travel, the Haneda Nihonbashi bridge is constructed from Japanese cypress and is based on the original 19th-century Nihonbashi. It is decorated with ornate replicas of Edo period folding screens, each depicting famous locations across Edo.  

Wooden Tag: This interactive display features hundreds of wooden tags hung on red strings with sentiments and well-wishes from travelers passing through the airport. Read the messages, or share your own to commemorate your travels.  

TIAT Sky Road: Dozens of airplane models depicting the airlines operating international flights at Haneda Airport are on display at TIAT Sky Road. Plus, you can test your flying abilities in an immersive TIAT Sky Road flight simulator. 

Water Shine: Among artist Hiroshi Senju’s most recognizable works, Water Shrine evokes a sense of tranquility. Its somewhat abstract appeal portrays an image of a waterfall in motion, a picture that’s soothing to passerbys. 

Drifting Clouds: Among a series of artwork on display throughout the airport, Drifting Clouds captures the attention of travelers for its warm, soothing allure. 

See more about Haneda Airport Map

Narita Airport

Located in Chiba, Narita International Airport, or Tokyo-Narita, serves the Greater Tokyo Area along with Haneda Airport. 

Built in 1978, Narita International Airport has undergone massive modernization developments since its original construction. Today, the airport employs cutting-edge face recognition technology, which can be used to replace boarding passes, and autonomous surveillance robots rove throughout its passenger terminals.  

Narita is among the busiest airports in Japan and is widely considered one of the country’s premier airports. NRT offers amenities, accommodations, and more. 

Make the best of your layover: where to rest, sleep, and shower

Narita never sleeps. But that doesn’t mean you have to. 

NRT is open 24 hours, and with a variety of amenities and accommodations that reach from sleep rooms to a capsule hotel, a comfy bed is never out of reach. NRT also offers baggage checks at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, so you can enjoy your layover without the burden of bags. And, there are onsite restaurants open 24-hours a day, just like the airport. 

R&R: where to rest at Narita Airport

If you have a layover at Narita Airport you can rest easy. NRT has massage chairs located throughout the airport, spacious lounges, and comfortable seating options in every terminal. 

Narita Travel Lounge

Terminal 1

This casual lounge offers spacious, relaxing seating options and views that overlook the runway. Additional offerings include refreshments including coffee, alcoholic beverages, and light meals.

Access granted: relax in Narita Airport JAL lounges 

JAL offers multiple lounge spaces across Narita Airport’s Terminal 2. Whether you’re searching for a spot to elevate your heels or hungry for eclectic cuisines, these JAL lounges tick both boxes, traveler. 

* Lounge hours may vary depending on JAL flight schedule. 

First Class Lounge: Offering an elevated lounge experience, the JAL First Class Lounge provides travelers with the opportunity to sample gourmet, chef-prepared sushi while unwinding in a chic, modern dining atmosphere. The lounge is outfitted with soothing decor and comfy furniture conducive to relaxation. 

Sakura Lounge: Function meets comfort at the JAL Sakura Lounge. Large picture windows give the communal space an open feel and provide up-close views of aircrafts. The Sakura Lounge also offers dining options that include an eclectic, ever-changing buffet and thoughtful meal service. 

* Travelers are eligible to visit JAL First Class Lounge only when Sakura Lounge is temporarily closed. 

Get some shut-eye: where to sleep at Narita Airport

NRT is widely considered “sleep-friendly." There are designated areas for sleeping across Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 is outfitted with numerous lie-flat couches.

If you have an overnight layover in Narita, be warned that there will likely be noise and bright lights. Fortunately, NRT has a capsule hotel and rentable rooms for tired travelers looking to get some rest in a private, comfortable space. 

Nine Hours 

B1F, Terminal 2

The only accommodation facility at NRT, this modern capsule hotel is open 365-days a year and has a front desk that offers 24-hour service. Sleep accommodations are quite simple, and toothbrushes, towels, slippers, and in-house clothes are included in the room rate. Plus, overnight and day-use customers of Nine Hours can use its onsite showers free of charge. 

Dayroom Area 

3F, Terminal 2 

Comprising 10 rooms, this dayroom area is equipped with a twin or single bed and a private restroom and shower space complete with essentials like shampoo and face towels.

Freshen up: where to shower at Narita Airport

A refreshing shower is not hard to come by at Narita Airport. NRT offers a series of varying shower options, including inclusive wheelchair-accessible options. 

Shower Room Area 

2F, Terminal 1

This area offers eight private shower rooms. The spacious rooms feature a vanity area, sink, toilet, and large shower space as well as amenities like bath towels and body soap. 

Dayroom Area 

3F, Terminal 1

This dayroom area features both private shower rooms and shower rooms with napping beds. This area offers one wheelchair-friendly napping room equipped with a shower.

Showers: 1,050 yen per 30 minutes.

Log on: where to recharge devices and connect to Wi-Fi

Connected travelers can utilize complimentary Wi-Fi access points, which are available in all terminals as well as terminal connection buses at Narita Airport. Additionally, charging areas are available in a number of locations throughout the airport and are accessible free of charge.

Dining options at Narita Airport: ramen restaurants, imported eats, and tasty takoyaki

Sure, you’re hungry for adventure. But when you need a meal, or a drink, these Narita Airport restaurants are at the ready. Dig in. 

* Restaurant hours are subject to change

Terminal 1

Kineyamugimaru: Thick udon noodles are the specialty at this self-service eatery with airport views. Main menu items include udon noodles, tempura, and onigiri. Kineyamugimaru is halal certified. 

Hours of operation: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Keisei Yuzen: Great for families, and offering a kids menu, this airport restaurant specializes in set menus that range from fish and meat dishes to tempura, sashimi, and udon noodles. 

Hours of operation: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Spaghetti Goemon: Italian-style spaghetti is served up in a modern setting at this restaurant that imports its ingredients, ranging from cheese to olive oils, directly from Italy. 

Hours of operation: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Terminal 2

Shahoden: Chinese specialties like Chow Mein and Szechuan Noodles are served in this casual restaurant. Light meals and full-course dining options are available. 

Hours of operation: 11:30 AM to 7:45 PM

Tokyo Tonkotsu Base: Savor noodles in pork stock at this ramen restaurant. Straight from Tokyo, this eatery offers a lineup of diverse ramen options for a range of tastes and preferences. 

Hours of operation: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

N’s Court: This casual dining experience features 200-seats spanning across a courtyard-like setting. A wide range of food options is available, from Japanese fare to Western cuisines. 

Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM; Saturday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM; closed on Sunday

Terminal 3

Miyatake Sanuki Udon: This Japanese restaurant features ingredients shipped directly from the home of Udon Noodles, the long-established noodle factory Miyatake Sanuki Seimenjo. Expect bold flavors or thoughtfully crafted dishes. 

Hours of operation: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Botejyu Express: A branch of the Botejyu, originally founded in Osaka in 1946, this airport eatery serves modern-yaki, a style invented by Botejyu, which includes dishes like takoyaki octopus balls and deep-fried chicken. 

Hours of operation: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Sightseeing in Narita Airport: galleries, cultural experiences, and the best viewpoints

A layover in NRT is anything but boring. From cultural displays to observation points equipped with telescopes, Narita Airport has activities and experiences to help pass the time. 

Terminal 1

NAA Art Gallery: A vast collection of paintings, photographs, illustrations, and art pieces are on display at this free airport art gallery. Open 365 days a year with limited viewing hours. 

Mini Gallery of Japanese Art: Part of the airport’s Art Promenade, this gallery features a presentation of Japanese art pieces from the collection of the Tokyo National Museum. 

The Universe: This large-scale stained glass work by Yoko Yamamoto catches the light just so and delights the visual senses with a spectrum of colors. 

Observation Deck: Offering views of the runway, departures, and arrivals, you can gaze out as far as the eye can see at this far-reaching open-air observation point.

Terminal 2

Sun, Moon, and Four Seasons: This folding screen-inspired mural of epic proportions is constructed from ceramic and was commissioned to one of Japan’s most notable Nihonga artists, Matazou Kayama. The extensive work symbolizes the airport’s role as a gateway to the nation of Japan. 

Observation Deck: With two locations on the fourth floor, this outdoor observation deck provides travelers with up-close views of parked aircraft that beckon to be photographed.

Terminal 3

Kids Park: With two locations throughout the terminal, these family-friendly activations give young travelers the opportunity to expel energy in a playland-inspired atmosphere. Parental supervision is required. 

See more about Narita Airport Map

Transit 101: Haneda Airport to Narita Airport

While both airports serve the Greater Tokyo Area, international travelers often underestimate the distance between the two facilities. However, transport to and from each airport is easily accessible, the most common transportation options include airport shuttle and train service. Get the latest connection information to ensure your commute between airports never encounters a problem.

Airport shuttle

Time: 65 to 85-minutes 
Fare: 1,760-3,080 yen (subject to change)

Train (Keikyu Line, Toei Line, Keisei Line)

Time: 90 to 115-minutes 
Fare: 3,200 yen (subject to change)

What to Do for Longer-Term Layovers

Many travelers find themselves pondering the possibilities during a lengthy layover, wondering if they have the option to venture out and explore the vicinity of the airport. The answer, in most cases, is a resounding yes—provided that you have accounted for certain key considerations. From traveling requirements and security checks to time management, there are several factors that can influence your ability to leave Haneda or Narita airport and make the most of your layover.

Under 8 Hours at Narita Airport

• Visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple: Explore the historical 10th-century Buddhist temple and its surrounding park. Address: 1 Narita, Chiba 286-0023, Open 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM

• Taste the Famous Local Eel Rice at Kawatoyo: Savor the unique and delicious eel rice at this hidden gem. Address: 386 Nakamachi, Narita, Chiba 286-0027, Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Over 8 Hours at Narita Airport

• Explore Ueno Park: Discover a variety of museums, shrines, and the Ueno Zoo in this expansive park in Tokyo. Address: Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Open 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM

• Go Shopping at Ameyoko: Experience the bustling shopping street with a variety of food stalls and stores. Address: Ueno-Hirokoji Station, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Open 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Learn more about these recommendations and discover others based on your interests in this Narita Airport layover guide.

Under 8 Hours at Haneda Airport

• Savor Authentic Feather Dumplings at Ota Market: Experience the freshness of Tokyo’s seafood and unique culinary delights, including the must-try feather dumplings. Address: 3-2-1 Tokai, Ota City, Tokyo 143-0001, Open 24 hours.

• Relax in Unique Black Hot Springs at Hasunuma Onsen: Indulge in a one-of-a-kind bathing experience to rejuvenate before your next flight. Address: 6-16-11 Nishikamata, Ota City, Tokyo 144-0051, Open Wednesday to Monday from 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM.

Over 8 Hours at Haneda Airport

• Experience the Future at Minato Mirai 21: Dive into Yokohama’s futuristic central business district, Minato Mirai 21, where stunning architecture meets vibrant amusement attractions. Address: 2-3 Minatomirai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012.

• Visit the Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama: Unleash your creativity by making your very own cup noodles at this interactive museum. Address: 2-3-4 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0001. Open 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last admission at 5:30 PM).

Dive deeper into these recommended activities and find more options that align with your interests by consulting our detailed layover guide for Haneda Airport.

Book your next trip to Tokyo with JAL today

A trip to Tokyo begins with Japan Airlines. No matter which airport you touchdown at, know that you’ll be greeted by exceptional restaurants, activities and accommodation that makes your layover remarkably comfortable. 

However, to avoid any unexpected issues, be sure to understand how to transfer between terminals. Get to know essential information for Narita Airport and Haneda Airport to benefit from a smooth transfer.

Start planning today, book your trip with JAL and enjoy traveler-friendly perks and benefits like our inflight Wi-Fi service and luxurious airport lounges at Haneda Airport and Narita Airport. Extended layovers aren’t so bad, after all.