How to Access Tokyo from Haneda Airport by Train
3 September 2024
This article explains how to get from Haneda International Airport (HND) to major Tokyo stations (Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ueno, Ikebukuro) by train.
Tips for first-time visitors to Haneda Airport
Here are some tips for travellers using Haneda Airport for the first time.
International flights arrive at Terminal 2 or Terminal 3
If you are arriving on an international flight, you will land at either Terminal 2 or Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is dedicated to domestic flights. Terminal 3 was specifically designed for international flights and Terminal 2 also handles some international flights. While Terminals 1 and 2 are connected by an underground passage, Terminal 3 is a bit farther away, requiring a train or bus transfer.
Two train lines serve Haneda airport: The Tokyo Monorail and The Keikyu Line
Haneda Airport is served by two convenient train lines: The Tokyo Monorail and The Keikyu Line. Both lines offer airport connection trains with slight differences in fares and journey times. Please note that the ticket gates for the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line at Haneda Airport are separate."
Tokyo Monorail
The Tokyo Monorail provides fast and comfortable transportation between Haneda Airport and central Tokyo. The monorail departs from all terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3) and travels to Hamamatsucho Station. From Hamamatsucho, you can transfer to the JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to reach other major Tokyo stations.
Keikyu Airport Line
The Keikyu airport Line connects Haneda Airport with central Tokyo. There is a station at each terminal in Haneda Airport (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3) from where trains travel directly to Shinagawa and Sengakuji stations. You can transfer to JR lines at Shinagawa station.
Which is Better: Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line?
The best option depends on your destination. Train routes in Japan are thoroughly covered by Google Maps, so it’s recommended to search for your route there and choose between the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line based on your specific needs. While the fare for the Keikyu Line is slightly cheaper, both are relatively close in price. Below is a comparison of the fares for both lines.
Fare Comparison: Tokyo Monorail vs Keikyu Line (Haneda Airport to Central Tokyo) as of Sep. 2024
JPY520 = USD3.5
Route | IC Cards Fare (Suica) | Paper Ticket Fare |
|---|---|---|
Tokyo Monorail (Hamamatsucho ⇄ Haneda Airport) | ¥519 | ¥520 |
Keikyu Line (Shinagawa ⇄ Haneda Airport) | ¥327 | ¥330 |
Tokyo Monorail: Ideal for those heading to Hamamatsucho Station, where you can easily transfer to the JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, providing quick access to areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station.
Keikyu Line: A better choice if your destination is closer to Shinagawa Station or if you're transferring to other JR lines or the Toei Subway lines from there.
Regardless of your choice, both lines offer efficient and convenient transportation from Haneda Airport to central Tokyo. Use Google Maps to determine the best route for your destination and travel preferences.
Use IC cards such as a Suica for convenient travel
Using IC cards such as Suica makes travelling easier, as you don't need to buy individual tickets. You can also install Suica on your smartphone. Tourist Suica physical cards named 'Welcome Suica' are also available for purchase at Haneda Airport terminals.
Train Guides in Japan: How to take the train
Taking the train in Japan is essential. Learn how to buy tickets and use the 'Welcome Suica' card for JR, subways, and private railways, plus the benefits of the Japan Rail Pass.
The JR Rail Pass is not valid on The Tokyo Monorail or The Keikyu Line
The JR Rail Pass is an unlimited journey ticket valid on all JR lines. While the JR Rail Pass is very convenient and reasonably priced, it is not valid on the Tokyo Monorail or the Keikyu Line because they are not JR. You need to purchase separate tickets or use an IC card for these lines.
Japan Rail Pass allows you unlimited travel on JR lines
The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers unlimited travel on JR trains across Japan, making it a must-have for tourists. Learn about the different types of JR Passes, how to purchase one, and important tips, including restrictions on Nozomi and Mizuho Shinkansen trains.
How to Buy Train Tickets at Haneda Airport
There are three options to purchase train tickets for the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Airport Line:
Buy tickets from the ticket machines at the airport.
Purchase a Welcome Suica, an IC prepaid card.
Use Mobile Suica on your smart phone (Android and iPhone)
We explain how to buy tickets using a Tokyo Monorail ticket machine. The process for purchasing Keikyu Line tickets is essentially the same. You can see the details how to purchase Keikyu Line tickets here.
Please note that credit cards are not accepted at the ticket machines in the airport. You can only pay with cash or an IC card like Suica.
Regarding the Mobile Suica, please see the article below.
Overseas travellers have a chance to use the "Mobile Suica"
Mobile Suica in Japan can also be used by tourists from outside of Japan. However, while iPhones are compatible, most Android devices sold overseas cannot install Mobile Suica. Here, we introduce the installation method and points to note for installing Mobile Suica on iPhones.
Step 1: Find Your Destination and Fares
Above the ticket machines, you will find a map displaying destinations and their respective fares. First, confirm your destination and fare using this map.
Step 2: Change the Language on the Ticket Machine and Select Ticket Type
If you plan to transfer to JR lines or the Rinkai Line after using the Tokyo Monorail, you can select a "Transfer Ticket," which allows you to purchase tickets for your entire journey. However, ensure you check the total fare on the fare chart above the machine before proceeding.
Step 3: Select Your Destination Station
This explanation assumes you are selecting the standard Monorail Line. After choosing the Monorail Line, a list of destination stations will appear. Select your destination from this list. The option "Monorail & Yamanote Line Area" on the lower right allows you to purchase a ticket that can be used at any JR Yamanote Line station.
Step 4: Payment
After selecting your destination, the total fare will be displayed on the screen. Pay the amount by cash or an IC card such as a Suica. Note that credit cards are not accepted.
How to Take the Train from Haneda Airport
Here, we explain how to take the train from Haneda Airport using the Tokyo Monorail as an example. The process for the Keikyu Line is essentially the same.
Step 1: Go from the Arrival Lobby to the Ticket Gate
Once you arrive at Haneda Airport, follow the signs to the ticket gates. Please note that the ticket gates for the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line are separate.
Step 2: Tap Your Ticket or IC Card at the Ticket Gate
In Japan, you need to pass through ticket gates both when you board and exit the train. You can do this by tapping your ticket or IC card, such as Suica, on the sensor. Note that credit card touch payments are not supported.
Step 3: Board the Train When It Arrives at the Platform
Once on the platform, board the train when it arrives. All seats are non-reserved.
How to Get to Major Stations in Tokyo
This section explains how to reach major stations in Tokyo. Generally, if you take the Tokyo Monorail, you'll transfer at Hamamatsucho Station, and if you take the Keikyu Line, you'll transfer at Shinagawa Station.
Shinjuku Station
Here’s how to travel from Haneda Airport to Shinjuku Station.
Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line:
Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line at Hamamatsucho Station and go to Shinjuku Station.
Travel Time: About 50 minutes
Keikyu Line + JR Yamanote Line:
Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport to Shinagawa Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station and go to Shinjuku Station.
Travel Time: About 40 minutes
Fare: 610 yen
Tokyo Station
Here’s how to travel from Haneda Airport to Tokyo Station. Tokyo Station is a major hub for Shinkansen services.
Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line:
Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line at Hamamatsucho Station and go to Tokyo Station.
Travel Time: About 30 minutes
Keikyu Line + JR Tokaido Main Line:
Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport to Shinagawa Station.
Transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line at Shinagawa Station and go to Tokyo Station.
Travel Time: About 30 minutes
Ueno Station
Tokyo Monorail + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line:
Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station.
Transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line at Hamamatsucho Station and go to Ueno Station.
Travel Time: About 40 minutes
Keikyu Line + Toei Asakusa Line:
Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport to Sengakuji Station, where it continues as the Toei Asakusa Line directly to Ueno Station.
Travel Time: About 40 minutes
Ikebukuro Station
Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line:
Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line at Hamamatsucho Station and go to Ikebukuro Station.
Travel Time: About 45 minutes
Keikyu Line + JR Yamanote Line:
Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport to Shinagawa Station.
Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station and go to Ikebukuro Station.
Travel Time: About 45 minutes
Use this information to choose the best way to travel from Haneda Airport to your destination in Tokyo. Have a pleasant journey!