The short version: if Haneda and Narita flights are within roughly ¥5,000–10,000 of each other, take Haneda. It's about 20km from central Tokyo versus Narita's 70km, and the transfer is both faster and cheaper — often by an hour and ¥2,000-3,000. If your Narita flight is meaningfully cheaper than that, the flight savings usually outweigh the extra transfer cost and time.
Both airports are well connected and neither is a bad choice — this is a real trade-off between money and time, not a trap to avoid.
A Few Things Worth Knowing
Haneda has grown fast
More international carriers fly into Haneda than a decade ago, including many US and European routes that used to land only at Narita. Don't assume your airline only serves one — check both when comparing fares.
Mixed in/out is fine
Flying into one airport and out of the other is common and simple — there's no rule requiring symmetry, and it can shorten your last-day transfer if your final hotel is closer to one than the other.
Get your eSIM working before customs
Whichever airport you land at, activate your eSIM before you clear immigration so Google Maps is ready the moment you reach the train platform.
Traveling between the two airports
If you ever need to transfer between Narita and Haneda directly, budget about 1.5–2 hours via the Keisei/Keikyu limousine bus or train — it's a real trip, not a quick hop.
Common Questions
Should I fly into Narita or Haneda?
If the flight prices are within about ¥5,000–10,000 of each other, choose Haneda — it's roughly a third of the distance from central Tokyo, and the transfer is both faster and cheaper. If your Narita flight is significantly cheaper than the Haneda equivalent, the savings on the flight usually outweigh the extra ¥2,000–3,000 and 45–60 minutes the Narita transfer costs.
How far is Haneda from central Tokyo?
About 20km. The Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line gets you into the city in 15-30 minutes depending on your exact destination, for roughly ¥300-500.
How far is Narita from central Tokyo?
About 70km, more than three times farther than Haneda. The fastest option, the Keisei Skyliner, takes about 41 minutes to Nippori/Ueno for around ¥2,570. The Narita Express (N'EX) runs to more central stations like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station in 55–80 minutes for ¥3,250.
Can I fly into one airport and out of the other?
Yes — plenty of travelers fly into Narita and out of Haneda, or vice versa, especially on separately-booked one-way tickets. There's no requirement to use the same airport for arrival and departure, and it can even work in your favor if it shortens your last-day transfer to the airport.