Question:

Joanne

HI! My husband and I and our two children will be travelling to Singapore with a 6 hour layover at Tokyo Haneda airport. Is this enough time to leave the airport for a couple of hours to explore a nearby neighbourhood (10 to 20 minutes by train) for a walk and something to eat? The layover is from 6:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. on a weeknight (if that affects what might be available). I don't know Tokyo at all so any advice is appreciated!

Humans say...

Josh

Hey Joanne,
Honestly, there isn't a whole lot going on that close to the airport, and if you aren't used to the train transfers, it can be super easy to miss a transfer station and add time to your trip.
There's a couple decent places to grab a bowl of ramen in the airport though.
Enjoy your trip!

Iri

hah no.. Slow Down!

Chris

There's quite a bit to see at HND's international terminal!

Jesse

You're travelling with kids in tow and your husband, so I wouldn't recommend it in this case unless you're seasoned travellers.
Some of the first areas I'd say are worth exploring that are closer to Haneda via train are Shibuya and Ikebukuro, but both are at least 45 minutes to an hour away. You'd need a perfectly executed plan to enjoy at most two hours in the city before needing to head back to the airport.
Is it doable? Absolutely. Is it worth it? That's up to you. If you're not going to be back in Tokyo any time soon, then maybe the quick excursion is worth it for you. I once did something similar on a four hour layover in Brussels, so I totally understand making the most of your time. Good luck!

Jesse

Oh, and you're going to love Singapore Changi airport. It's absolutely incredible

Josh

Keep in mind the 6 hour layover includes checking in for an international flight. They could maybe go sight seeing from the train.

Jesse

Depends on whether they checked bags, if they were tagged all of the way through to SIN, if they got all of their boarding passes already (which is usually the case), but yes, I generally agree that most people wouldn't be able to pull this off. I typically travel solo, usually just take a carryon with me to Asia, and do a lot of research on transportation for places I go or lay over in, so for me it's quite doable

Susan

You might want to consider getting a hotel room at the airport so the kids can nap, sometimes there are showers as well. Check out the airline lounges - they can really be worth the little extra you pay for peace and meals. Go to the Haneda Airport website.

Erin

Not a chance. We tried doing this on a 10 hr layover and it was a nightmare!!

Paulette

IMO a 6 hour layover is not long enough to leave just about any airport yet alone a major international airport - remember you will have to go back thru security so that 6 hours could be reduced to less than 4 at best

Joanne

Thank you! I kind of expected that it wouldn't be worth it but thought I would ask just in case. We're fairly seasoned travellers and our luggage would be checked through to Singapore but I'd rather not push it. Especially with potentially grumpy kids in tow! Thanks for the advice!

Susan

I'm not sure my comment got posted - check out the airport website - consider reserving a hotel room at the airport so the kids can nap/have a shower and check out the airline lounges - it can be very worthwhile to pay a bit extra for the peace and quiet and meals.

Paulette

We had friends who travelled thru Tokyo in transit to Australia a few years ago and they stayed at something called a Transit Hotel right at the airport - they got a room so they could sleep and shower, had access to a lounge for snacks, etc and the bonus from their point of view was that they did not have to go through security again because they never actually left the secure area - it might be worth looking into - I can't remember the hotel name but I am sure that if you google Haneda Airport hotel or transit hotel you should be able to find it

Paulette

Okay, so curiosity got the best of me, I checked it out, there is a Transit Hotel, you can book a twin room for as little as 6 hours (perfect for your needs) for 2 adults (don't know if they would charge extra for kids) for about $145 CDN

Joanne

Thank you for checking!

Darren

but do a little research and buy some stuff from the duty free. The japanese make the most amazing crackers!

Joanne

They do make amazing crackers! Lol!

A.I. says...

Exploring Tokyo During a Layover at Haneda Airport

Having a 6-hour layover at Tokyo's Haneda Airport presents an exciting opportunity to venture out and experience a bit of the vibrant city. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a short excursion from the airport can be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Is 6 Hours Enough Time?

In short, yes! With 6 hours at your disposal, you should have ample time to leave the airport, explore a nearby neighborhood, grab a bite to eat, and return to catch your connecting flight. However, it's essential to plan your excursion carefully to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Recommended Neighborhood: Asakusa

One of the most accessible and culturally rich neighborhoods near Haneda Airport is Asakusa. Located just 20 minutes away by train, Asakusa offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Tokyo. Here are some highlights you might consider visiting:

Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple is a iconic Buddhist temple and a must-see attraction in Asakusa. As you approach the temple, you'll pass through the famous Kaminarimon Gate, adorned with a massive lantern. The temple grounds are teeming with traditional shops, street food stalls, and a vibrant atmosphere that will immerse you in the heart of Japanese culture.

Nakamise Shopping Street

Right outside the temple grounds, you'll find the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street. This lively market street is lined with shops selling souvenirs, traditional Japanese snacks, and various trinkets. It's the perfect place to pick up some unique keepsakes and indulge in local delicacies.

Dining Options

Asakusa is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors. You can savor sushi, ramen, tempura, or even sample some of the delectable street food vendors lining the streets. If you're in the mood for a sit-down meal, there are numerous restaurants catering to various budgets and preferences.

Transportation and Planning

From Haneda Airport, you can take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, where you can transfer to the Asakusa Subway Line. The journey to Asakusa should take approximately 20 minutes. Keep in mind that you'll need to allocate enough time for immigration procedures upon your return to the airport.

It's also advisable to check the opening hours of the attractions you wish to visit, as some may close earlier on weeknights. Additionally, it's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected delays or closures.

Conclusion

A 6-hour layover at Haneda Airport provides an excellent opportunity to explore the enchanting neighborhood of Asakusa. With its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere, a visit to this area will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories of your time in Tokyo.

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2017
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November
Is it worth leaving Tokyo Haneda airport during a 6-hour layover?