Haneda Airport Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Published by: BouncePosted
Elevators at Haneda Airport, Tokyo, Japan

This airport is has been voted the cleanest airport in the world, best domestic airport, and second-best airport in the world overall. Many of the international flights that it receives are business flights, so the chances are that you may be on a business trip with limited time to explore Tokyo. To not at least get a taste of all this city has to offer would be a huge mistake. As the airport is just nine miles from the city, now is your chance. Hop on the monorail at any of the airport's three terminals, and you can be in Tokyo in less than sixteen minutes. After that, the extensive underground train network will take you where ever you want to go.

It’s a good idea to lose the baggage for a while at one of the many locker rental services near Haneda Airport and then diving into your adventure. A good place to start would be the Nakamise Shopping Street which is really just one big open market that showcases much of Japanese street culture. Grab a photo or two at the famous Thunder Gate and then head across to Senso-ji Temple which dates back to 645 AD. Other options would be to cruise along the Sumido River or a visit to Ueno Park which houses several museums including Japan's oldest, the Tokyo National Museum. If you visit in March or April, the park will be bejeweled with its famous cherry blossom which has become a tourist attraction in its own right.

Shadow of plane on runway at Haneda Airport, Japan

This airport is awash with restaurants that serve Japanese, Chinese and Western food, as well as quick bites and snacks. With so much available, it is unlikely you are going to want to bring your own food into the airport, though you are allowed to do so. Remember that most of the food stalls and restaurants are before passing through security.

The food at Haneda Airport is far better than one might expect at an airport, but it is in the city that you will really be able to appreciate true Japanese cuisine with all of its splendid variety. Takoyaki is a favorite street food that consists of octopus-filled dough buns. Other popular street dishes include deep-fried beef balls or delicious omelets on a stick. Might sound weird but it is a national favorite. For more upmarket dining, the sushi here is the best in the world and you will find restaurants for all budgets. Korean BBQ is popular, and for vegetarians, tempura restaurants supply a tasty array of vegetable specialties.

Haneda Airport camera policy

You are welcome to take souvenir selfies and videos in the airport, but you should seek permission if you are looking at commercial shots or videos. One unusual souvenir option in this airport are what they call photo sticker booths. These are booths that transfer your image onto stickers but with a little added extra. They are themed and you will find several options to choose from and you can clamber into the booth with friends for some unique memories of your visit.

Haneda Airport rules

As with nearly all airports these days, Haneda complies with a set of international rules when it comes to what you can carry in your hand luggage. You will need to pass through a security check and a metal detector before entering the departure area.

  • You may not carry liquids in containers of over 100 mls on board.
  • Liquids in small containers must be in clear plastic bags and available for security inspection. Their combined total should not exceed one liter.
  •  You may not carry items that could explode or combust.
  • Aerosols are forbidden.
  • Spare batteries for your electronic devices should go into your hold luggage.
  • Any dangerous item that security deem could be used as a weapon will be confiscated.

Locker rental in Tokyo

Tokyo is a high-density city with lots to see and do. Don't let the fact that you are carrying luggage put a damper on your ability to enjoy your visit or restrict you as you explore this city. There are several locker rental facilities in the downtown area that are within easy reach of public transport. The best services offer online booking to avoid the nuisance of reaching a rental facility, only to find there are no lockers available. Peace of mind can be improved if you use a rental service that provides free insurance.

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