Landing in a new country can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry! If you’re a Filipino traveler arriving at Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, getting to the city center is actually super easy.
There are a few good options depending on what you’re looking for—some are fast, some are affordable, and others are super comfy. Whether you’re headed to Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Asakusa, there’s a way to get there that fits your budget and style.
This quick guide is here to help you choose the best route to the city—simple, budget-friendly, and easy to follow. Think of it like a tip from a fellow kabayan who’s already been there and wants to make your arrival a little smoother.
🗼 How to Get from Tokyo Airport to the City Centre (Tokyo Station / Shibuya / Shinjuku)
Whether you're arriving at Narita or Haneda Airport, here’s a quick, no-stress guide to getting to central Tokyo. Perfect for Filipino travelers—just pick what works best for your budget, time, and comfort level.
✈️ From Narita International Airport (NRT) to Tokyo
| Transport Option | Where to Find It | Travel Time | Cost (JPY / PHP) | Convenience | Best For | Extra Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Narita Express (N'EX) | Inside the airport terminal | 55–65 mins | ¥3,070 / ₱1,100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | First-timers | Reserved seats, direct to major stations |
Keisei Skyliner + Subway | Terminal 1/2/3 station | 60–75 mins | ¥2,570 / ₱930 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Budget + speed | Transfer needed at Ueno |
Airport Limousine Bus | Outside arrival area | 90–120 mins | ~¥3,100 / ₱1,100 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Big luggage or hotels | Direct to hotels, no transfers |
Taxi | Just outside the terminal | 90–120 mins | ~¥25,000 / ₱9,000+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families or late-night flights | Pricey, but door-to-door |
Private Transfer | Book via apps like Klook or Trip.com | 60–90 mins | ₱5,000+ (for 2–3 pax) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Small groups or tired travelers | Fixed price, no language barrier |
🛬 From Haneda Airport (HND) to Tokyo
| Transport Option | Where to Find It | Travel Time | Cost (JPY / PHP) | Convenience | Best For | Extra Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Keikyu Line + JR | Basement level of terminal | 30–40 mins | ¥500–600 / ₱180–220 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Budget travelers | May need 1 transfer |
Tokyo Monorail + JR | Inside terminal | 35–45 mins | ¥700 / ₱250 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | First-timers | Scenic ride, easy connection |
Airport Limousine Bus | Buy ticket inside, board outside | 40–70 mins | ¥1,300–¥1,500 / ₱470–₱550 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Travelers with big bags | Direct to hotels and stations |
Taxi | Outside the terminal | 30–50 mins | ¥7,000–¥10,000 / ₱2,500–₱3,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Late-night arrivals or groups | Fast but pricey |
Private Transfer | Pre-book online | 30–60 mins | ₱2,500–₱4,000+ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families or comfort |
Unmissable Things to Do in Tokyo
3511 booked
🚄 Tokyo Airport Train: Your Smooth Ride to the City
Riding the train in Tokyo might sound overwhelming, but don’t worry—it’s way easier than it looks, especially from the airport. If you’ve been on the MRT in Manila, this is like the upgraded version: super clean, always on time, and safe.
🛤️ Train Lines & Routes
There are a few train options depending on which airport you land at:
Sources: Narita Airport
✈️ From Narita Airport:
- Narita Express (N’EX) – Direct to Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinjuku
- Keisei Skyliner – Fast train to Ueno, then easy transfer
- Regular Keisei Line – Cheaper but slower
Sources: Haneda Airport
✈️ From Haneda Airport:
- Keikyu Line – Goes to Shinagawa, then transfer to JR Yamanote Line
- Tokyo Monorail – To Hamamatsucho, then transfer to JR Line
📍 Popular Stops & What’s Nearby:
- Tokyo Station – Near Imperial Palace, great connection hub
- Shibuya – Hachiko, shopping, nightlife
- Shinjuku – Hotels, food, department stores
- Ueno – Zoo, parks, museums
- Asakusa – Sensoji Temple, old-town Tokyo vibes
🕒 Operating Hours
First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
Around 5:00 AM | Around 11:30 PM | Every 10–20 mins |
💸 Ticket Prices & How to Buy
Destination | Adult Fare (JPY / PHP) | How to Buy |
|---|---|---|
Tokyo Station (N’EX) | ¥3,070 / ~₱1,100 | Ticket machine, JR counter, online |
Ueno (Skyliner) | ¥2,570 / ~₱930 | Skyliner booth, machine, Klook app |
Shibuya/Shinjuku | ¥3,000+ / ~₱1,100+ | Train counters, or use IC card |
✅ You can use an IC Card like Suica or Pasmo (reloadable like Beep card)
✅ Or buy a one-time ticket
✅ Some apps like Klook sell discounted train passes
🧳 Pros & Who It’s Best For
✅ Super reliable – Hindi ka malalate
✅ Clean & safe – Even late at night
✅ Budget-friendly – Much cheaper than taxi
✅ Comfortable – Lalo na Express trains
✅ English signs everywhere – Easy for first-timers
Best for:
- Solo travelers
- Couples
- Budget travelers
- First-time visitors
- Anyone with light luggage
🚌 Airport Bus: Budget-Friendly and Bag-Friendly Way to Reach Tokyo
If you’re on a budget, traveling with big luggage, or just want a no-transfer, no-hassle ride straight to your hotel area, airport buses in Tokyo are a solid choice. Many routes go to major stations, hotel districts, and tourist spots.
🚍 Where to Ride the Bus
✅ After immigration, go to the Arrival Hall
✅ Look for signs: “Airport Limousine Bus” or “Keisei Bus”
✅ Buy a ticket at the bus counter or machine (English available!)
✅ Head outside to your boarding gate number (it’s on your ticket)
💸 Fare Estimates & Routes (PHP Converted)
| Bus Route | Approx. PHP | Main Destinations |
|---|---|---|
Narita → Tokyo Station | ~₱1,100 | Tokyo Station, Marunouchi area |
Narita → Shibuya/Shinjuku | ~₱1,200–₱1,400 | Shopping, hotels, nightlife areas |
Narita → Ikebukuro | ~₱1,200 | Hotels, Sunshine City mall |
Haneda → Tokyo/Shibuya | ~₱500–₱700 | Fast and direct to central Tokyo |
Haneda → Shinjuku/Ikebukuro | ~₱700–₱900 | Longer ride but comfy |
🕒 Travel Time & Traffic Tips
| Time of Day | Estimated Duration | Traffic Notes |
|---|---|---|
Morning (6 AM – 9 AM) | 60–90 mins | May hit rush hour roads |
Midday (10 AM – 3 PM) | 45–70 mins | Usually smooth |
Rush Hour (4 PM – 7 PM) | 70–100+ mins | Expect delays |
Evening (8 PM – 12 AM) | 50–70 mins | Less traffic, relaxing ride |
💳 How to Buy & Board
- Go to the bus counter or kiosk in the airport
- Tell staff your destination (e.g., “Shinjuku Station”)
- Pay by cash or card
- Get your ticket + gate number
- Go to the bus stop platform
- Show your ticket to the staff/driver and hop on!
🧾 Keep your ticket – Sometimes collected at entry, sometimes at exit.
🧳 Who This Is Best For
✅ Travelers with big luggage
✅ Solo or first-time visitors
✅ Families (no need to carry bags across train platforms)
✅ Budget-conscious but want to avoid train transfers
✅ Late flights – many buses run until midnight
⚠️ Things to Watch Out For
⚠️ No 24/7 buses – Last bus usually around midnight
⚠️ Traffic delays – Especially from Narita during rush hour
⚠️ Not all stops are in English – But buses have screens showing stops clearly
⚠️ Double check your route number – Some areas (like Shinjuku) have multiple stops
🚖 Taxi: Hassle-Free, Door-to-Door Comfort in Tokyo
Sources: Wikipedia
If you’re pagod from the flight, traveling with big bags, arriving late at night, or just want to go straight to your hotel without transfers—taking a taxi from the airport is the easiest (though priciest) option.
No need to figure out train maps. Just sit back and relax.
🚖 Where to Get a Taxi
✅ After customs, go outside to the official taxi stand (very organized, may line up a bit)
✅ Look for signs that say “Taxi” (in English and Japanese)
✅ Staff will help you get a taxi—safe, clean, and metered
✅ Prefer to book in advance? You can use apps too (see below)
💸 Fare Estimates & Cost (Converted to PHP)
| Route | Taxi Fare (JPY / PHP) |
|---|---|
Narita → Tokyo City | ¥20,000–¥30,000 / ₱7,500–₱11,000 |
Haneda → Tokyo City | ¥6,000–¥10,000 / ₱2,200–₱3,800 |
Large Taxi or Van (for groups) | Add ¥2,000–¥5,000 / ₱700–₱1,800 |
🕒 Travel Time Estimate
| Time of Day | Narita Airport | Haneda Airport |
|---|---|---|
Morning Rush (6–9 AM) | 75–90 mins (traffic) | 40–55 mins |
Midday (10–3 PM) | 60–70 mins (smoother) | 30–45 mins |
Rush Hour (4–7 PM) | 80–100 mins (slow) | 40–60 mins |
Night (8 PM – 12 AM) | 55–70 mins (light) | 30–40 mins |
📱 Ride-Hailing & Booking Apps
✅ GO App – Japan’s version of Grab (works for Tokyo taxis)
✅ S.RIDE – Another popular local taxi app
✅ Uber Japan – Works in Tokyo but expensive; often sends regular taxis
✅ Klook / Trip.com – You can pre-book a private transfer (good for peace of mind)
🧳 Who It’s Best For
✅ Families with kids or seniors
✅ Travelers with lots of luggage or shopping
✅ Late-night arrivals (after trains stop running)
✅ First-timers who don’t want to deal with transfers
✅ Those staying in less accessible hotel areas
⚠️ Things to Watch Out For
⚠️ Expensive – Especially from Narita (masakit sa budget)
⚠️ Not all drivers speak English – Show your hotel name in Japanese
⚠️ Some taxis don’t accept cards – Always have yen cash just in case
⚠️ Avoid random drivers offering rides – Stick to the official taxi line
Explore the Top Places to Stay in Tokyo
🚗 Private Transfer: Stress-Free Arrival in Tokyo, Door-to-Door
If you want to skip the train crowds, avoid transfers, and go straight to your hotel, a private airport transfer is a solid and comfy option. Great for families, groups, or anyone na pagod na after the flight.
🕒 Travel Time & Availability
⏱ Travel Time:
- Haneda: 30–50 mins
- Narita: 60–90 mins
📅 Available 24/7 – Perfect for early morning or late-night flights
🙋♂️ Your driver will meet you inside the airport, holding a sign with your name. G na agad!
💸 Sample Cost Range (Converted to PHP)
| Vehicle Type | Approx. Fare | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
Standard Car (1–3 pax) | ₱3,000 – ₱4,000 | Solo, couple, small group |
Van (4–6 pax) | ₱4,500 – ₱6,000 | Family, barkada, seniors |
Unlock the Best Flights to Tokyo
📲 Where to Book
✅ Book ahead via:
- Trip.com
- Airport Transfer Japan (local providers)
Pro Tip: Choose providers with English support or in-app chat, especially if you want to update your driver in case of delays.
🧳 When This Makes Sense
✅ You're with family or elderly travelers
✅ You have lots of luggage
✅ You're arriving past midnight or super early
✅ Your hotel is not near a train station
✅ You just want a relaxing, worry-free arrival
📱 Why Pinoys Like It
✅ May driver holding your name — no getting lost
✅ Fixed price — no surprise fees, no meter stress
✅ Maluwag and aircon — perfect after a long-haul flight
✅ Drop-off is right at your hotel door
✅ No language barrier — booking app handles the Japanese details
⚠️ Reminders & Considerations
⚠️ More expensive than train or bus
⚠️ Must book in advance — not ideal for last-minute arrivals
⚠️ Double-check hotel address and flight number to avoid confusion
⚠️ Some providers charge extra for midnight pickups or waiting time
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✈️ What’s the Best Way from Tokyo Airport to the City?
Just landed in Tokyo and not sure how to get to the city? No worries, kabayan! Whether you're tipid, tired, or traveling with barkada, there's a transport option that fits your trip style. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:
Travel Style | Best Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
Budget Traveler | 🚆 Keisei Train (Narita) / 🚝 Keikyu Line (Haneda) | Cheap, fast, and easy to transfer to subways |
First-Time Visitor | 🚅 Narita Express or Tokyo Monorail | Smooth ride, comfy seats, and clear English signs |
Group or Family | 🚗 Private Transfer / Taxi | No transfers, more space, and door-to-door drop-off |
Late-Night Arrival | 🚖 Taxi or Pre-booked Car | Runs 24/7 when trains are already closed |
Comfort Seeker | 🚗 Private Transfer (via Trip.com) | Meet-and-greet, fixed rate, stress-free |
No matter where you land — Narita or Haneda — Tokyo’s transport system is world-class. Just choose what suits your budget, schedule, and luggage situation.
🎌 And don’t worry: English signs are everywhere, locals are polite, and it’s easy to ask for help if needed.
Enjoy Japan, kabayan — have the best time in Tokyo! 🇯🇵🍣
🙋♀️ FAQ: Tokyo Airport to the City
🛬 What’s the difference between Narita and Haneda Airport?
Narita is farther from central Tokyo (about 60–90 minutes), and it's where most international flights land. Haneda is much closer (30–45 minutes) and easier if you're staying in Tokyo. If you can, choose Haneda — it's more convenient.🚆 What’s the cheapest way to get to the city?
If you're on a budget, you can take the Keisei Main Line from Narita or the Keikyu Line from Haneda. Fares start at around ₱300–₱700. These are local trains and great for backpackers or tipid travelers.🚄 What’s the fastest way to reach Tokyo?
From Narita, the Narita Express (N’EX) or Keisei Skyliner are your best bets — they’re fast, comfortable, and have space for luggage. From Haneda, take the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line to reach the city quickly.📱 Can I use a Suica or Pasmo card?
Yes! These are IC cards that work on almost all trains, buses, and even vending machines. You can buy them at the airport and reload anytime.Will I get lost? Are signs in English?
Don’t worry! Tokyo is very tourist-friendly. There are English signs, clear train maps, and helpful announcements. Locals are kind too — just show your destination if you need help.