Last Updated on 2025-05-05 by kei
If you’re flying to Japan, welcome! This Japan airport transportation guide will help you travel smoothly from major airports to your destination.
First, depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Japan. Be sure to check the latest visa information on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
(Reference: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Visa Information)
Also, before your trip, we highly recommend registering your information on “Visit Japan Web.” It helps speed up immigration and customs, saving you lots of time at the airport.
(Reference: Visit Japan Web)
Now, let’s talk about how to get from Japan’s major airports to the cities, with travel times and cost estimates.
Narita International Airport (NRT)
Located about 60 km (37 miles) from central Tokyo, Narita serves as a major gateway to Japan, especially for international travelers.You have two popular options:
- Airport Limousine Bus
- Travel Time: About 90 minutes to Shibuya or Shinjuku
- Estimated Cost: ¥3,200–¥3,600
- Airport Limousine Bus (Narita)
- Narita Express (N’EX)
- Travel Time: About 60 minutes to Tokyo Station
- Estimated Cost: Around ¥3,070
- Narita Express (JR East)
Which to choose? If you have heavy luggage, the bus is more convenient. If you want to reach Tokyo faster, the train is better.
Haneda Airport (HND)
Very close to downtown Tokyo, Haneda offers fast and convenient access to the city center, making it ideal for both domestic and international travelers.
- Train (Keikyu Line)
- Travel Time: About 15 minutes to Shinagawa Station
- Estimated Cost: About ¥300
- Keikyu Railway
- Airport Limousine Bus
- Travel Time: About 30–50 minutes to major Tokyo areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya
- Estimated Cost: ¥1,300–¥1,600
- Airport Limousine Bus (Haneda)
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
The main international gateway to Osaka, Kyoto, and the Kansai region, KIX is well-connected to major cities in western Japan.Two main options are:
- Train (JR West “Haruka” Limited Express)
- Travel Time: About 50 minutes to Shin-Osaka Station
- Estimated Cost: About ¥2,850
- JR West Haruka
- Airport Limousine Bus
- Travel Time: About 60–90 minutes to Umeda or Namba areas
- Estimated Cost: Around ¥1,600
- Kansai Airport Limousine Bus
Which to choose?
For a quick trip, take the train. For easy hotel access, use the bus.
Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
Located near Nagoya, Centrair provides easy access to central Japan, including popular destinations like Nagoya, Takayama, and Ise.
- Train (Meitetsu Railway)
- Travel Time: About 28 minutes to Meitetsu Nagoya Station
- Estimated Cost: About ¥890
- Meitetsu Railway
- Airport Limousine Bus
- Travel Time: About 60 minutes to Nagoya Station
- Estimated Cost: Around ¥1,200
- Centrair Airport Bus
Which one to choose?
Choose the train for speed, or the bus if you have big luggage.
Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
Situated close to downtown Fukuoka, this airport offers quick and convenient connections to Kyushu’s major cities and is a hub for domestic and Asian international flights.
- Subway (Fukuoka City Subway)
- Travel Time: About 5 minutes to Hakata Station
- Estimated Cost: About ¥260
- Fukuoka City Subway
- Taxi
- Travel Time: About 15 minutes to Hakata or Tenjin
- Estimated Cost: About ¥1,200–¥2,000
Which one to choose?
Take the subway if you want it quick and cheap, or a taxi for door-to-door convenience.
New Chitose Airport (CTS)
Serving as the main airport for Sapporo and Hokkaido, New Chitose is the gateway to Japan’s northern landscapes, known for beautiful nature and winter sports.
- Train (JR Hokkaido Rapid Airport) is all seats reserved.
- Travel Time: About 40 minutes to Sapporo Station
- Estimated Cost: About ¥1,150
- JR Hokkaido
- Rental Car
- Best if you’re visiting Niseko, Furano, or rural Hokkaido
- Estimated Cost: From ¥8,000 per day
- NIPPON RENT-A-CAR
- For Safe Driving
Which one to choose?
Take the train if you’re not confident driving in snowy conditions. Rent a car if you’re used to driving in snow.
Naha Airport (OKA)
Located in Okinawa, Naha Airport connects travelers to the islands’ tropical beaches, resorts, and rich cultural heritage.
- Monorail (Yui Rail)
- Travel Time: About 15 minutes to Kokusai Street area
- Estimated Cost: About ¥270
- Yui Rail
- Rental Car
- Ideal if you plan to explore Okinawa’s northern areas
- Estimated Cost: ¥6,000–¥9,000 per day
- NIPPON RENT-A-CAR
- For Safe Driving
Which one to choose?
The monorail is perfect if you’re staying in Naha. Rent a car if you plan to explore beyond the city.
We hope this guide makes your journey from Japan’s major airports to the cities smoother and stress-free. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, business, or adventure, Japan’s efficient transportation system will help you start your trip comfortably.
Have a wonderful time exploring Japan!