Haneda to Tokyo: Monorail, Keikyu, and When to Take a Car

Haneda is the easy airport. Most tourists should ride a train. A minority should book a car. If you flew into Narita by mistake (or by fare), use Narita to Tokyo instead.

Compare airports: Narita vs Haneda. Day-one pacing: first day in Tokyo.

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Quick chooser

Whichever line you take, you will be checking the platform and the transfer on your phone a few minutes after baggage claim. Have data working before you land: install a travel eSIM at home, not in the arrivals hall. Our eSIM comparison covers the alternatives.

Get a Japan eSIM on Airalo10GB for $18 · install at home, switch on when you land

Tokyo Monorail

Runs to Hamamatsucho, where you connect to the Yamanote Line for Shibuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, Ueno, and more.

Best for: classic central loop hotels.

Tip: Follow “Monorail” signs after baggage claim; buy a ticket or tap IC if you already have one — Suica guide.

Keikyu Airport Line

Runs to Shinagawa (about 15 minutes on the fastest trains), and many trains continue onto the Toei Asakusa Line to Shimbashi, Nihombashi and Asakusa without a change.

Best for: hotels around Shinagawa, and along the Asakusa Line, including Asakusa itself.

Tip: Check whether your train is local vs limited express; luggage space is limited at rush hour.

Buses and taxis

Airport limousine buses stop at major hotels and stations, which is useful if your hotel has a stop. Taxis from Haneda to central Tokyo are much cheaper than from Narita, and many taxis offer fixed fares to set zones of the city; ask for the fixed fare (定額運賃, teigaku unchin) at the taxi stand.

Private transfer

Still the right product when trains are the wrong product: toddlers, three suitcases, 1am landing, mobility needs. Welcome Pickups runs Haneda pickups at a fixed price agreed when you book, with an English-speaking driver who meets you in arrivals.

After you reach the hotel

Keep the evening inside your neighborhood. Do not “see Shibuya and Asakusa tonight.” If tomorrow includes timed tickets, such as Skytree or teamLab, book them tonight.

FAQ

How long from Haneda to Shibuya? Often about 30–50 minutes depending on connections and time of day.

Monorail or Keikyu? The Monorail if you are heading for the Yamanote Line via Hamamatsucho; Keikyu for Shinagawa, and for Asakusa-line stations such as Asakusa and Nihombashi.

Is Haneda easier than Narita? Yes for city access. Book Haneda when fares and schedules allow.

Do I need cash for the train? IC cards and cards cover most ticket machines; still keep a little cash.