Have you recently booked a trip with a somewhat lengthy layover in Tokyo and are wondering what to do with your time? Lucky for you, there are so many things to do in Tokyo even with a short layover! This article is going to show you what you can do with your layover in Japan and even introduce an amazing layover tour in Tokyo. Keep reading to learn more!
Tokyo Travel Assist offers a Haneda Layover tour.
If you have a short layover, we recommend starting with our “Things to Do in Haneda Airport: Short Layover Guide” first.
Can you leave Haneda Airport during a layover?
As of 2023, there are 70 countries have the right to enter Japan without a visa for short stays.
Visa-Free Entry to Japan
Citizens of the following countries and regions do not need a visa to enter Japan for short-term stays up to 90 days, as long as they do not engage in income-generating activities.
North America: United States, Canada
Asia: Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong (only for holders of HKSAR passport), Macau (only for holders of MSAR passport), Taiwan (only if the passport includes a personal ID number)
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Netherlands, Finland, Italy, Belgium, Spain, Poland, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Ireland
Latin America: Mexico, Brazil (visa exemption applies only to holders of an IC (e-passport))
For the most up-to-date information and the complete list of visa-exempt countries, please refer to the Exemption of Visa (Short-Term Stay) page on the official website of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Visa-Required Entry to Japan
Nationals of the following countries must obtain a visa, even for short-term stays in Japan:
China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and CIS countries.
Visa applications must be made at a Japanese embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.
For travelers from other countries, visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality and visa status in your country of residence. To ensure a smooth entry and avoid issues during your layover, please check the most up-to-date information on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
Even if your country is listed above, or not listed at all, we strongly recommend verifying the visa requirements directly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as rules are subject to change.
If you plan to exit the secure transit area at Haneda Airport during your layover, you will need to go through immigration and customs. Whether this is allowed depends on your visa status.
Make sure to apply for a visa in advance if necessary, so you can enjoy your time in Japan without complications.
What to Know Before Leaving the Airport During a Long Layover in Japan
If you’re planning to leave the airport during a layover in Japan, there are a few important entry and exit procedures you should be aware of to ensure a smooth experience.
Passport and Entry Requirements
Foreign travelers can enter Japan during a layover as long as their passport is valid. Japan does not require a specific number of months remaining on your passport—entry is permitted as long as it is not expired. It’s always best to check your passport validity before traveling.
Streamline Your Arrival with Visit Japan Web
It is highly recommended to use the Visit Japan Web service when entering Japan. This official digital platform allows you to complete key arrival procedures ahead of time, including immigration and customs forms, helping you save time at the airport. By registering before your trip, you can streamline the entry process and avoid paperwork upon arrival. You can sign up early by visiting Visit Japan Web.
No COVID-19 Certificate Required
As of May 2023, Japan no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result to enter the country. This applies to all travelers, including those leaving the airport temporarily during a layover.
Minimum Layover Time for Leaving the Airport
As a general rule, you should have at least 4 to 6 hours of layover time before considering a trip outside the airport. Less than that may leave you rushed or at risk of missing your connecting flight.
Here’s how your time might break down:
- Transportation to and from the city center (often 30–60 minutes each way)
- Time for sightseeing, dining, or resting
- Time to return to the airport, clear immigration, and go through security again
The total time required varies based on the time of day, transportation options, and airport congestion. Always plan with a generous buffer to ensure a smooth return to your gate.
Ticket and Baggage Considerations
When planning to leave the airport during a layover in Japan, be sure to consider how your ticket type and baggage arrangements may affect your flexibility.
If your connecting flights are booked under a single reservation (also called a through-ticket), your checked baggage is usually transferred directly to your final destination. This makes airport procedures smoother, as you won’t need to collect or re-check your luggage.
However, be aware that you won’t be able to access your checked baggage during the layover—even if you need something from it. Be sure to pack all essential items (such as chargers, medication, or extra clothing) in your carry-on bag.
On the other hand, if your flights are booked separately, you may need to claim your baggage after landing and check it in again for your next flight. This process requires more time and reduces how long you can spend outside the airport. Plan to return with enough time for check-in, immigration, and security screening.
Lastly, some low-cost carriers (LCCs) and international airlines may restrict airport exits during layovers based on ticket type or policy. Always confirm with your airline before making outside plans.
Terminal Hours of Haneda Airport
Haneda Airport’s Terminal 3, which operates 24 hours a day, serves most international flights and many low-cost carriers (LCCs), offering greater flexibility for travelers with late-night or early-morning connections.
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2—used primarily for domestic flights—are open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
These terminals close shortly after the final flights depart or arrive, so if you return late at night, re-entry to some areas may not be possible. Terminal 2 also handles a limited number of international flights.
Night and Early Morning Travel Considerations
If you plan to explore Tokyo during a layover, be cautious when going out late at night or early in the morning. Transportation options are limited during these hours, and getting back to the airport can be challenging if you’re not prepared.
Most last trains from central Tokyo to Haneda Airport depart around 11:00 PM, while the first trains resume service around 5:30 AM. If you’re relying on public transportation, check the exact timetable of your route in advance.
Without a plan, you may risk getting stranded and needing to pay for a taxi or other alternative transport.
Travel Insurance and Airline Support
Unexpected delays can happen, even with the best planning. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check whether your travel insurance covers missed flights, alternative transportation, or emergency accommodation.
This is especially important if you’re planning to leave the airport during a layover, when timing is tight.
Additionally, review your airline’s policies on missed connections—full-service airlines may offer more flexibility than low-cost carriers. Knowing what support is available can make a big difference if things don’t go as planned.
Currency Access and Payment Preparation
While many places in Japan accept credit cards and IC cards (like Suica or PASMO), there are still situations where Japanese yen in cash is needed—such as small restaurants, local shops, or taxis.
It’s a good idea to exchange currency before your trip or confirm that your international debit or credit card works with ATMs in Japan. ATMs that accept foreign cards are commonly found at airports, convenience stores, and post offices.
Staying Connected During Your Layover
Reliable internet access is essential for navigation, translation, and staying in touch. Before arriving in Japan, consider how you will stay connected—whether through a SIM card, eSIM, pocket Wi-Fi, or roaming plan.
SIM cards and eSIMs for short-term travelers are available at the airport and online, but some require advance setup or activation.
Language and Communication Tips
While English is understood in major tourist areas, signage, menus, and communication in more local spots may be only in Japanese. In taxis, small restaurants, or when asking for directions, it’s possible that English won’t be spoken.
Having a translation app ready and knowing a few key Japanese phrases can be helpful. Being prepared for limited English communication will make your layover experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Baggage delivery and storage
If you’re wondering what to do with your luggage during your layover, Haneda Airport offers several convenient baggage storage services.
Fees vary by size: approximately ¥500 for small items, ¥700 for medium, and ¥1,100 for large luggage. For more details, visit the official Haneda Airport website.
Haneda Long Layover tour plan
Haneda Airport is the most convenient for exploring Tokyo on a layover. If you have a layover at Haneda that lasts more than 9 hours, you’ll have a great opportunity to explore some of Japan’s popular spots. Of course, you will still have limited time and may be able to choose only one or two of the spots below.
If the layover is in the morning…
If you have a layover in Japan starting in the morning, then you are in luck for some good sightseeing in Tokyo. A morning layover often means you will miss the tourist crowds at most sights. If you take a train from the airport to the city, you may even get to experience Japan’s notorious morning train rush. Here are some of the best tourist attractions for those with morning layovers:
Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji Fish Market is the most famous market in Japan. Here you can try super fresh fish at great prices. Although the inner market has recently closed, the outer market of Tsukiji is still thriving. A trip to Tsukiji is perfect for a morning layover because many shops close by 2 pm.
| Name | Tsukiji Fish Market |
| Address | 4-13 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0045 (Map) |
| Opening Hours | 6:00 – 14:00 •Close : Sunday, Holidays, and some Wednesdays |
| Price | Entrance : Free |
| Travel Time | 45 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Toei Oedo Line at Daimon Station. Get off at Tsukiji Shijo Station and it’s a 7-minute walk thereafter. |
| Website | https://www.tsukiji.or.jp/english/ |
Meiji Jingu
Meiji Jingu is Japan’s most popular Shinto Shrine. The Shrine is named after the Meiji Emperor. Now it is a popular spot for prayer, especially during the New Year’s Holidays. You will enjoy the shrine with a tranquil atmosphere because there are fewer tourists in the morning at Meiji Jingu. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of a traditional Japanese wedding!
| Name | Meiji Jingu |
| Address | 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557, (Map) |
| Opening Hours | Around 6:00 – 17:00 •The gates open at sunrise and close at sunset. |
| Price | Entrance : Free |
| Travel Time | 60 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station. Get off at Yoyogi Station and it’s a 14-minute walk thereafter. |
| Website | https://www.meijijingu.or.jp/en/ |
If the layover is in the afternoon…
Layovers in the afternoon provide you with more flexibility. You will also be surrounded by more people, which may add to your authentic Tokyo experience. Here are some of the best tourist attractions for those with afternoon layovers:
Shibuya crossing
Shibuya crossing is the highlight of the Shibuya station area. The iconic scramble pedestrian crosswalk is a must-visit for any tourist in Tokyo. Enjoy crossing the road with as many as 1000 other people amongst the towering skyscrapers.
| Name | Shibuya crossing |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 48 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station. Get off at Shibuya Station. |
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the center of metropolitan Tokyo. Here you can find Tocho Observeraty, which is a part of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. At Tocho Observatory you can go up to the free observation deck that sits over 200 metres above the ground. The view at night with the city lights is especially magical.
| Name | Shnjuku |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 50 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station. Get off at Shinjuku Station. |
Harajuku and Takeshita-dori
If you are interested in the Kawaii cute fashion of Japan, then Harajuku is a must-visit for you. Harajuku is undoubtedly the fashion capital of Tokyo. A stroll at the famous Takeshita-dori will give you the chance to see the real trendsetters of Tokyo. Numerous shops that line the streets of Harajuku are filled with wacky and unique clothing items.
| Name | Takeshita-dori |
| Address | 1-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001(Map) |
| Travel Time | 45 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Yamanote Line at Shinagawa Station. Get off at Harajuku Station. |
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is an iconic orange-coloured structure with two observatory decks for tourists. Located in central Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is a great viewing spot for any visitor to Tokyo. It is also one of the tallest observation decks in Tokyo. Mount Fuji can even be seen from the top observation deck on clear days.
| Name | Tokyo Tower |
| Address | 4-2-8 Shiba Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0011 (Map) |
| Opening Hours | Main Deck : 9:00 – 22:30 Top Deck tour : 9:00 – 22:15 |
| Price | The fare varies depending on whether you choose the Main Deck or Top Deck tour, as well as the age group. |
| Travel Time | 60 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and get off at Daimon Station. It’s a 12-minute walk from there. |
| Website | https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/en/ |
Roppongi Hills
If you ever wondered where all of the posh Tokyoites go to hang out, then look no further than Roppongi Hills. Known as “The Hills”, this area features shopping facilities, a major business and residential building, plus a beautiful open-air observatory deck.
| Name | Roppongi Hills |
| Address | 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-6108 (Map) |
| Opening Hours | Shops : 11:00 – 20:00 Restaurants : 11:00 – 23:00 Observatory deck : 10:00 – 22:00 |
| Travel Time | 60 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Hibiya Line at Higashi-Ginza Station. Get off at Roppongi Station and it’s a 2-minute walk from there. |
| Website | https://www.roppongihills.com/ |
Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace in the middle of Tokyo is home to the Emperor of Japan and his family. Japan’s Imperial Family is one of the longest-reigning empires in the world. Here you can enjoy the beautiful greenery of the Imperial property which used to be the site of Edo Castle, home to the Tokugawa Shogunate. There are beautiful gardens open year-round to the public on Palace grounds.
| Name | Imperial Palace |
| Address | 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8111 (Map) |
| Opening Hours | Numbered tickets for tours will be distributed at 9:00am and 12:30 pm |
| Price | Free |
| Travel Time | 60 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and transfer to the Hibiya Line at Higashi-Ginza Station. Get off at Roppongi Station and it’s a 2-minute walk from there. |
| Website | https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/multilingual/lang/en/koukyo/index.html |
Ginza
Ginza is the chicest part of Tokyo filled with upscale shopping, food, and entertainment. Ginza used to be the site of a silver mint and transformed into its current upscale form during the post-World War Two era. Now, one square foot of land in Ginza is worth over 10 million yen, making it one of the most expensive areas for real estate in Japan!
| Name | Ginza |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 37 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and get off at Higashi-Ginza Station. |
Asakusa
Asakusa is home to Tokyo’s oldest temple, called Sensoji. In Asakusa you can visit the stands selling traditional Japanese snacks and souvenirs that lead up to the main temple. The architecture at Asakusa is amazing and provides an interesting contrast to the urban sprawl of Tokyo.
| Name | Asakusa |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 51 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, and get off at Asakusa Station. |
Akihabara
If you know anything about Japanese otaku culture than you must have heard of Akihabara, Japan’s paradise for anime-lovers. Parts of the town are dedicated to electronic goods while other areas are surrounded in everything anime. Maybe a visit to one of Akihabara’s famous maid cafes would become the highlight of your trip!
| Name | Akihabara |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 50 minutes by train Take the Keikyu Airport Line from Haneda Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Station, or Haneda Airport Terminal 3 Station, get off at Mita Station, walk to the Yamanote Line at Tamachi Station, and transfer and get off at Akihabara Station. |
Odaiba
Odaiba is a famed entertainment and shopping area located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. The island was originally built during the Edo period to protect Japan from foreign invaders. Now in Odaiba you can see the famous Gundam towering over you while looking at mainland Tokyo from the sea. The train ride to Odaiba is quite scenic too.
| Name | Odaiba |
| Address | Map |
| Travel Time | 50 minutes by train Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport Terminal 1, Terminal 2, or Terminal 3 Station, transfer to the Rinkai Line at Tennozu Isle Station, and get off at Tokyo Teleport Station. It’s a 13-minute walk from there. |
Easy with Tokyo 1-Day Ticket
Haneda airport is directly connected with keikyu line. You can get a ticket called “Tokyo 1-Day Ticket” at haneda station. It is surly powerful and quite good for value.
In a Haneda long layover plan, you can visit two or three sites mentioned in the list above, maybe more, depending on the length of your layover. Luckily there is more flexibility when you have more time in Tokyo. Of course, what your layover tour will look like depends on your personal preferences and travel style. For those who can’t decide what to do, we recommend that you enjoy Japanese gourmet foods at a good restaurant. If you want to fully enjoy your long layover at Haneda Airport, you should consider joining a haneda layover tour.
Recommended tour services
There are so many tour services in Tokyo, so it can be hard to filter through all of them to find specific layover tours that accommodate your flight times. While there are only a few, there is still a wide variety of layover tours that service Tokyo’s airports. Pick up the popular tours for you at Haneda.
Haneda layover tours
- Tokyo Travel Assist: Tokyo Travel Assist is a service that provides a variety of tours throughout the Tokyo area. Tokyo Travel Assist’s services are also completely personalizable as they can adjust the itineraries to your schedule and travel needs. You can tell them where you want to go, whether it is a well-known sightseeing spot or a hidden gem. Tokyo Travel Assist is one of the best choices for those who want personal yet professional service. Plus, they have a number of knowledgable English guides who can guide you in a private vehicle or with Tokyo’s public transportation network. Check out Tokyo Travel Assist’s information on the Haneda Layover Tour page.
- Outech’s Haneda Layover Tour: This tour is perfect for those transiting through Haneda Airport. Their tours of Tokyo last 3 hours and bring you to all of Tokyo’s best tourist spots including the famous Tokyo Tower and Ginza. The times for the tours are flexible and you will get your own personal English-speaking guide! Find out more about the Outech’s amazing Haneda Layover Tour.
- Tokyo Private Tour’s Haneda Layover Tour: If you have a layover of 6 or more hours at Haneda, then look no further than Tokyo Private Tour’s Haneda Layover Tour. This completely personal tour will pair you with an English guide who will bring you to some famous Tokyo sights including Tsukiji and Tokyo Tower. You will be driven around in a private vehicle of your choice. For those looking for a completely individualized yet quality experience, then this is the tour for you. Check out Tokyo Private’s Haneda Layover Tour!
Hotels at Haneda Airport
Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu
Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu is a hotel directly connected to Terminal 2. The hotel features rooms designed to resemble a cockpit, and from rooms on the runway side, you can watch airplanes take off and land. It’s a hotel perfect for aviation fans and families. Additionally, breakfast is offered in the hotel’s restaurant.
The Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Haneda
The Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Haneda is located on the 3rd floor departure lobby of the International Terminal. Being directly connected to the International Terminal makes it extremely convenient for stays related to early morning or late-night flights.
Villa Fontaine at Haneda Airport(Premier and Grand)
Villa Fontaine Haneda Airport is a hotel located in Haneda Airport Garden, adjacent to Terminal 3. The complex features two types of affiliated hotels: the high-end “Premier” and the “Grand,” which focuses on convenience and functionality. They have just opened in December 2022.
Depending on the room, guests can enjoy views of airplanes taking off and landing, or the nearby river estuary. Additionally, guests can take advantage of discounted rates at the on-site spa facility, Izumi Tenku no Yu.
From Haneda to Narita and vice versa
If you have one of the harder layovers starting in Haneda and departing from Narita and vice versa, then you are in luck. Tokyo Travel Assistant provides layover tours specifically for those with somewhat confusing and anxiety-inducing layovers that may make travelers skip out on exploring Tokyo.
Tokyo Travel Assistant is an amazing service with knowledgable locals providing tours and assistance to tourists coming to Tokyo. Their service can cater to layovers that start in both Haneda and Narita Airport. Also, the tours are private and completely individualized, so you are guaranteed to get the best customer experience. If you want a hassle-free yet fulfilling layover experience in Tokyo, take a look at the haneda layover tour.
Summary
After reading this article, you definitely have the tools to create your own memorable layover experience in Japan. Remember that local tour guides can help make your experience smooth and enjoyable! Let us know how long your layover in Tokyo is and how you plan to spend it below.
