Japan airport guide: Transport and transfers in Tokyo & Osaka

For travellers new to Japan and our Japan tours, travelling to and from Japan's major airports—Narita and Haneda airports in Tokyo, and Kansai and Itami airports in Osaka—can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. These four airports are well-connected to their respective cities, and several transport options are available to suit different needs and budgets. Airport transportation like taxi, trains, buses are all options, as well as the most convenient choice, an Inspiring Vacations private airport transfer.

Here’s your guide to the transport options at these popular Japan airports, including how to book an airport private transfer with Inspiring Vacations for a seamless and stress-free arrival.

Arrival procedures and what to expect 

Japan’s major airports are efficient and foreigner-friendly, with clear English signage and helpful staff. Upon arrival, travellers will go through a process which includes quarantine (questionnaire cards are distributed onboard the aircraft. Fill them out and present them to the quarantine counter upon arrival), immigration, baggage claim, and customs. 

Narita Airport (Tokyo)

After disembarking, follow signs to Quarantine, then proceed to Immigration for passport checks and photo/fingerprint scans. Next, collect your luggage and clear Customs—you may be asked to open your bag, especially if you have electronics or food. The entire process typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on crowd levels and plane arrivals.

Haneda Airport (Tokyo)

Haneda is compact and efficient. After landing, you’ll go through Quarantine, Immigration, baggage claim, and Customs. Haneda often processes passengers faster than Narita—expect around 30–45 minutes from landing to exit. Most signage is in English, and staff are helpful.

Kansai International Airport (Osaka)

Similar to Narita, Kansai Airport handles international arrivals. After Quarantine, proceed to Immigration, baggage claim, and Customs. Depending on time of day, processing may take 30–60 minutes. Terminal 1 is for most international flights, while Terminal 2 is for low-cost carriers.

Itami Airport (Osaka)

Primarily for domestic flights, so you’ll skip immigration and customs altogether. Just follow signs to baggage claim and exit—the process is typically fast and smooth, around 10–20 minutes.

Taxis are available at all airports for a direct, comfortable ride to your destination. While taxis are convenient, they are also the most expensive option.

1. Japan airport transport by taxi

Narita Airport to Tokyo

A taxi ride from Narita Airport to Tokyo costs approximately ¥22,000–¥28,000 (AU$250–$317) and takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.

Haneda Airport to Tokyo

A taxi ride from Haneda Airport to Tokyo costs approximately between ¥5,000–¥7,000 (AU$56–$79) and takes around 30-40 minutes.

Kansai International Airport to Osaka

A taxi ride from Kansai International Airport to Osaka costs around ¥15,000–¥20,000 (AU$170–$225) and takes about 40–50 minutes to central Osaka.

Osaka Itami to Osaka

A taxi ride from Osaka Itami Airport to Osaka costs around ¥2,500–¥4,000 (AU$28–$45) and takes about 20–30 minutes to get to central Osaka.

Best for: those who are looking for comfort, privacy, and flexibility with their departure time.

2. Japan airport transport by train

Japan's extensive and efficient train network is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to get to and from the airport. Clear signage in English makes it easier for international travellers to navigate but you’ll also need to rely on apps like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner to assist with your journey. There are many different train options but the following information focuses on the most manageable airport train services. It does not include Japan’s bullet train (Shinkansen) network, which operates on separate tracks and is typically used for intercity travel.

Narita Airport

• Narita Express (N'EX): Fast, comfortable, and direct, the Narita Express is ideal for reaching central Tokyo (Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku) in about 60 minutes.
• Keisei Skyliner: A faster option for reaching eastern Tokyo (Ueno, Asakusa) in about 40 minutes.

Haneda Airport

• Tokyo Monorail: The Tokyo Monorail connects Haneda Airport to Hamamatsucho Station in central Tokyo in about 15 minutes, with further connections to the JR Yamanote Line.
• Keikyu Line: A direct and faster route to Shinagawa and other parts of Tokyo, with travel time of around 13 minutes to Shinagawa Station.

Kansai International Airport

• JR Haruka Express: Direct to Osaka Station (Umeda), Shin-Osaka, or Namba in about 30 minutes.
• JR Kansai Airport Rapid Service: A budget-friendly option, taking about 50 minutes to Osaka Station. 

Osaka Itami Airport

• Monorail and JR Lines: Connects Itami to Hotarugaike Station, where you can transfer to the JR lines. Travel time is around 30–40 minutes to central Osaka.

Travel tip: For real-time travel schedules and train routes, use apps like Navitime, Google Maps and Japan Transit Planner and download before leaving home. 

3. Japan airport transport by airport shuttle bus

Buses (airport limousine buses and shuttle services) are a more affordable, though slower, alternative to airport taxis or trains, with buses departing usually every hour. They're a great option if you have luggage or prefer a less complicated option than the train system.

Narita Airport 

• Narita Airport limousine bus: Provides direct connections to major destinations in Tokyo. Travel time is about 90 minutes, and it’s a good option if you're staying at hotels serviced by the bus.
• JR East Bus (shuttle service): A reliable, budget-friendly shared ride to various Tokyo destinations, with travel time also around 90 minutes.

Haneda Airport

• Haneda Airport limousine bus: Directly connects Haneda to major Tokyo hotels and stations. The travel time is about 30-40 minutes, and the buses are spacious with ample luggage storage.
• Keikyu limousine bus: Another affordable option for accessing various Tokyo districts, such as Shibuya and Ikebukuro.

Kansai International Airport

• Airport limousine bus: 45–60 minutes to central Osaka, including Namba, Umeda, and Shin-Osaka.
• Nankai Airport express bus: A cheaper option that takes about 50 minutes to Osaka.

Osaka Itami Airport

• Airport limousine bus: 20–30 minutes to popular areas like Namba and Umeda.
• Airport shuttle bus: A budget-friendly option with a travel time of around 25 minutes to central Osaka.

Travel tip: Airport buses are great for travellers with luggage or those who prefer a simple ride without the complexity of train transfers. Expect travel times to be a bit longer due to traffic. Please keep in mind that the drop off point is usually a short walk from the hotel, rather than directly at the hotel.

4. Japan airport transport by private transfers with Inspiring Vacations 

For those who want the ultimate convenience and a more personalised service, consider booking an airport private transfer with Inspiring Vacations. This service offers a smooth, comfortable journey directly from the airport to your hotel or preferred destination, with the convenience of door-to-door service. Once you’ve booked your tour, you can add this service via your dedicated Traveller Hub portal for a stress-free arrival.

Why book an airport private transfer?

• Seamless experience: No waiting in line, no complex directions, just direct transport from your arrival gate to your hotel.
• Great for groups: Especially useful for families or groups travelling with lots of luggage.
• Pre-book: Book your transfer in advance to ensure your driver is waiting for you as soon as you land.

Which Japan airport transport option is best for me?  

Choosing the best transfer method depends on factors like your budget, comfort preferences, and arrival time. 

Taxis: best if you prefer convenience and privacy, or if you’re arriving late at night.
Trains: the fastest and most efficient method if you’re comfortable with navigating the system.
Shuttle bus: including airport limousine buses, are great for those who want a more relaxed, door-to-door option without the complexities of public transport.
Private transfers: perfect for a seamless and comfortable experience, particularly for those with more luggage or travelling in a group.

Useful travel tips

• Cash and card use: While most transport services accept credit cards, smaller stations or buses may require cash. It's recommended to carry Japanese yen for convenience.
• Luggage delivery services: Both Narita and Haneda airports offer luggage delivery services to your hotel, allowing you to travel light while exploring Tokyo. It’s an excellent option if you're heading straight to sightseeing destinations, or if you arrive early in the day and don’t want to carry heavy bags around.
• Free Wi-Fi: All airports provide free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected while navigating your way to the city. eSIMs are essential to stay connected in Japan and while navigating public transport. You can purchase one at the airport, mobile phone stores, and online.
• Download apps: Navitime or Google Maps are both helpful for navigating train routes and schedules.
• Accessibility: Both airports are fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and wheelchair-friendly transport options. You can also request assistance if needed.

Inspired to visit Japan with the experts? Inspiring Vacations has more than 10 tours to Japan, ranging from our 8 Day Best Of Japan to our 28 Day Unforgettable Japan, Hokkaido & Kyushu. Our best-selling tour, 16 Day Inspiring Japan, is the ideal option for first time visitors. It takes in bucket list spots including Mount Fuji, Osaka Castle and the Hiroshima Peace Park.