Stopover Tokyo
Be enchanted by Japan, an ideal stopover destination on your way to Australia. The capital city, Tokyo is one of the world's greatest cities and is perfect for a layover with so much to discover. Featuring bright neon lights, skyscrapers, technology, friendly locals, Japanese culture, world-class airport facilities, an amazing public transport system, and much more. Relax and revive on your way to Australia and uncover the treasures of Tokyo. Let's go!
As soon as you leave the terminal, soak up the Japanese culture
Visit a local restaurant during your layover
Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan and has even been named the Best Airport in Asia and the second-best airport in the world. With a size of 180 acres, Haneda Airport is one of two international airports in the Greater Toyko area. Haneda Airport has three terminals.
Located less than 30 minutes south of central Tokyo, transit passengers can catch the monorail or Keikyu Railway. It is also possible to hop on board the limousine bus or the most expensive option is to take a taxi. Haneda has great facilities for both a short layover, transit, or longer layover. With a world-class arrival lobby, departure lobby, lounge access, plenty of restaurants and shops, and more.
Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo than Narita Airport
Break up your flight with a stopover in Tokyo
Narita Airport
With three terminals, Narita Airport is a world of wonder and provides everything you need for a smooth layover in Japan. The airport has a large assortment of restaurants on offer including Japanese cuisine. Within the airport, you will also find beauty salons, Duty-Free shops, Japanese specialty shops, and much more.
While you are waiting to check-in, you can take advantage of the airport lounges and dayrooms (please check with your airline for conditions of entry). The Narita Airport Transit & Stay Program allows travellers to leave to airport and experience Japan. There are both self-guided and guided options available with English-speaking guides.
If you need to transit between international airlines, you do not need a special visa. If you decide to catch the Airport shuttle: the limousine bus, it will take approximately 65 - 85 minutes and cost around 3200 yen. Taxis are not cheap in Japan and could cost around 40,000 yen or more. The train is a good option and takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. You can easily reach Tokyo from Narita Airport by train, bus, taxi, or helicopter. However, the best way to travel between Narita Airport and Tokyo Station is the JR Narita Express (NEX). The journey takes approximately one hour and costs around 3000 yen.
Toei Oedo Line is accessible to and from Narita and Haneda Airport
If you have time, visit the neon lights of Shinjuku
Things to do in Tokyo
Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities in the world with many tourist attractions. Would you like to go shopping? Visit a pedestrian shopping street known as Takeshita Street. Here, you can find an assortment of fashion boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This 350-metre lined street is one of the most famous streets in Toyko and is a must-do during your layover in Japan.
If you would like to experience some culture, visit the Imperial Palace. This special place is the residence of the Emperor of Japan and marks the center of Tokyo. The symbolic heart of Japan is located just ten minute walk from Tokyo Station. Take a self-guided wander around the beautiful gardens or go on a walking tour.
Take your time and explore Japan like a local
Japan is world-renowned for its friendly locals
A must-visit in Tokyo is the Meiji Shrine which is free to visit every day from 5 am to 6 pm. The Meiji Shrine is located in Shibuya and is a shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Take a wander around the adjacent Yoyogi Park which is made up of a forested area.
Keep an eye out for the famous Tokyo Tower, a communications and observation tower within the Shiba-Koen district. It is the second-tallest structure in Japan. If you would like to see Japan's tallest tower visit the observation deck of the Tokyo Skytree. The second tallest structure in the world measures 634 metres and features the two highest observation decks in Japan.
If you have a lack of time in Japan, visit the region of Hamamatsucho. Located just 15 minutes by monorail from Haneda Airport. Here, you can find a skyline filled with modern office towers and luxury hotels. Hamamatsucho is nestled beside Tokyo Bay and offers many marine excursions such as dinner cruises.
Explore the city at night and marvel at the lights
Be charmed by the tall towers in Japan
Are you searching for one of Tokyo's most lively hotspots? Visit Shinjuku and discover buzzing nightclubs, stylish bars, karaoke rooms, restaurants, and more. Shinjuku Station is the world's busiest railway station with more than two million passengers per day.
Are you a foodie? Be sure to take a trip to Tsukiji and together with a local guide embark on a Tsukiji fish market tour! During the tour, you will also visit the nearby, Hama Rikyu Gardens. If you prefer a dabble in some shopping, go to Akihabara. Located in central Tokyo, a game lovers paradise, here you will find electronics at bargain prices.
Entry requirements
Details and information on the current regulations for a trip to Tokyo can be found here.