15 Hours and 50 Minutes in Tokyo
Posted by Ayush Madan
7 min read
Updated: Oct. 24, 2024
Explore our ultimate Tokyo Haneda long layover guide, packed with top spots, food, and activities near the airport for 8, 9, 12, or 15-hour layovers, perfect for stepping out of the terminal.
Sky coming into Haneda airport Japan during sunset, the start of my long layover © Ayush MadanIn what has been my most productive year of travel yet, I've come to realize that layovers are more significant than we give them credit for - they can make or break a journey. Take, for example, my layover at Shanghai Airport on my way back from Japan: it was anything but pleasant. The moment I disembarked, I felt like I was being corralled through the gates, and deposited into a designated waiting area with no space for exploration. In stark contrast, my recent layover in Tokyo around Haneda was a breath of fresh air.
Making the most of a long layover in Tokyo Haneda Airport
An inviting restaurant in an alley in Akihabara near Haneda Airport Tokyo © Ayush Madan
While booking my flights to and from Vancouver, I deliberately allowed extra time for a long layover in Tokyo Haneda airport. Partly because it was cheaper, but mainly because I'm an unapologetic Japanophile - a self-proclaimed weeb who loves all things Japanese. Anime, food, culture, manga - you name it, I'm obsessed. So, despite the 10.5-hour flight from Vancouver, when I landed at Haneda Airport, I was buzzing with energy. I couldn't wait to get out of the terminal and immerse myself in one of the world's most iconic cities - Tokyo.
Unlike my home in Thailand, where the seasons never change, Japan's seasons are distinct and dynamic. Gone was the idyllic spring I remembered from Kyoto in April, when sakuras adorned the landscape. Summer had arrived in full force on this island nation. As I stepped out of the Haneda airport toward the monorail station, the humidity clung to me, soaking through my clothes. With my headphones on, playing a song by The 1975, I watched as we left the sparse outskirts of Haneda behind and headed toward the dense, sprawling metropolis of Tokyo.
Getting out of Haneda terminal: Did I need a visa?
Train departing along the JR Line from Haneda airport, my layover adventures begin © Ayush Madan
It's fascinating how differently people live just a few hours northeast of you in a country as exciting as Japan. The advertising, the trains, the teenagers, the work culture - it's all uniquely Tokyo. Think you're well-traveled? Let Tokyo humble you. As you pass the Blade Runner-esque buildings on the monorail, don't be surprised to see workers still toiling away at 8 p.m. While much of the Western world experiments with four-day work weeks and remote jobs, Japan remains steadfast in its demanding (and some would say toxic) work culture.
As a Thai passport holder, I am allowed entry to Japan as a temporary visitor for 15 days - completely visa-free. Chances are, you can also enter Japan visa-free! On the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website, there are 71 countries exempt from any tourist visa requirement, ranging from 15 days all the way up to 90 days. Before you leave the airport, it's worth considering if you will have enough time to enjoy the city. As a general rule, don't leave the airport if your layover is less than 8 hours. The immigration officer will inform you as such. My bags were checked through to Bangkok, so I didn't have too much to worry about through customs. I handed in my immigration form where I marked "nothing to declare". The officer then took a quick look through my backpack, and sent me on my way. The entire process from disembarking the plane to waiting on the train platform took less than 40 minutes.
Akihabara Station in Tokyo is a bright and busy taster of what was to come during my mini-break layover © Ayush Madan
After transferring to the JR Line, I got off at Akihabara - Electric Town. Known for its electronics and revered as the mecca of manga and otaku culture, it's no surprise that a sleep-deprived anime fan would end up here during a single night in Tokyo. Stepping out of the station, I was immediately surrounded by women dressed in otaku-style clothing, white tourists, and a maze of food stalls, malls, and eye-catching buildings. I wanted to wander Tokyo's streets and stumble upon a hidden gem of a restaurant, and that's exactly what I did.
Affordable places to eat near Haneda airport Tokyo
Kourakuen Hirakawacho is a humble little restaurant I might have overlooked had I been glued to my phone. With a modest 3.8-star rating on Google, this unassuming spot was conveniently located across from the station. My first question to the staff was whether they accepted Visa. They did, so I sat at a table for six, where each diner ate in solitude behind small partitions. The most prominent object in front of me was a tablet menu - all in Japanese, of course. After exhausting my limited Japanese, I asked the server for help and placed my order: a post-3 p.m. dinner set that included a small bowl of pork fried rice, pan-fried gyoza, a warm bowl of bone broth soup garnished with scallions and seaweed, and a small serving of pickles. For ¥800, or roughly 7.5 Canadian dollars, it was a steal. The fried rice was perfectly seasoned, the gyoza was the best I've ever had - crispy yet tender - and the bone broth soup, with its rich flavor and comforting warmth, was gone in a few customary slurps.
Dinner Set at the Kourakuen Hirakawacho - Chiyoda City, Tokyo: BBQ pork fried rice, Pan-fried gyoza, Bone broth soup, Pickled cucumbers © Ayush Madan
After my meal, it was time to get some work done and settle in for the night - my 16 hour layover was going to allow me to wander for almost 12 hours! So, after a bit more exploring, I found myself at Jonathan's restaurant and café, where I set up shop for the evening. Despite the late hour, I secured a counter seat and ordered an Umeshu highball - a refreshing, easy-to-drink mix of Japanese plum wine and soda. Jonathan's stays open until 3 a.m., with the kitchen closing at 2 a.m., making it an ideal spot for a late-night drink and a snack. They also had tempting parfaits and desserts. I finished my work in about an hour, then spent some time unwinding with YouTube on their free Wi-Fi. At 3 a.m., the staff politely ushered us late-night lingerers out.
Where to get souvenirs near Haneda Tokyo airport
With an hour and a half before the trains reopened, I decided to do some light souvenir shopping. A short walk from Jonathan's in Kabukicho led me to Don Quijote, a sub-city area of the iconic Donki chain. This Japanese classic is a treasure trove of goods - snacks, skincare, electronics, trading cards, plushies, you name it. For a Japan enthusiast like me, it's a must-visit. I picked up some bonito flake packets for my rice, premium strawberries, and some super-sour Japanese candy. By the time I was done, it was time to head back to the station.
Tokyo Banana boxes at Haneda Airport International Terminal contain fluffy, soft sponge cakes that are filled abundantly with banana custard cream that you can take home as a souvenir! © Ayush Madan
Not enough time to leave the airport? Fear not! Haneda Airport has some of the best duty-free shopping options in the world. You will be overwhelmed with the sheer amount of beautifully packaged and affordably priced treats, all of which will be sure to impress your friends back home. One of my personal favourite souvenirs I always ask for when someone is visiting Japan is the iconic Tokyo Banana. This banana-shaped spongecake has a decadent banana cream filling which is rich and delicious. Another iconic Japanese souvenir is their Nama brand chocolate, a high-quality chocolate infused with whiskey.
Natural hot spring, or otherwise known as a Onsen, near Haneda airport in Tokyo
I debated whether to visit my next destination, but given the time and proximity, it would have been foolish not to. On the map, I found a natural hot spring in Heiwajima not far from the airport, reportedly open since the 1960s. After being cooped up in a metal tube for 11 hours and enduring Tokyo's sweltering summer night, nothing sounded better than a hot bath. I took the JR Line from Akihabara to Heiwajima, a quieter neighborhood on the outskirts of Tokyo. The walk from the station to the onsen was magical. I listened to a playlist my best friend made for me as I watched the sunrise. It was barely 5:30 a.m., and the city was already stirring. I passed a beautiful park where people were jogging, walking, and cycling. The peaceful atmosphere was a stark contrast to the bustling city I had just left. Along the way, I couldn't resist stopping a lady with a small dog in her bag to ask if I could take a picture.
My new furry friends outside Heiwanomori Park, a highlight from my layover at Haneda Airport, Tokyo © Ayush Madan
An hour at this onsen cost ¥1,500, or roughly $14, with an additional ¥300 for each extra hour. The moment I dipped my feet into the water, I could tell it was different. The mineral-infused scent lingered in my hair for days. At 40.5°C, the water was warm enough to require a slow, careful submersion. But once I was fully immersed, an almost meditative calm washed over me - it was the first truly relaxing moment I'd had in days. Just then, a staff member entered and turned on the TV, which began broadcasting Japanese weather reports and news about the country's returning Olympic athletes. The surrealness of the moment left me grinning from ear to ear. What a place to be on a Wednesday morning. After my bath, I showered, blow-dried my hair, and brushed my teeth. Despite the lack of sleep, I finally felt human again.
Easy and affordable breakfast spot near Haneda airport
After paying for my bath, I made my way to Lawson, one of Japan's famous convenience stores, for an affordable breakfast. I chose salad rolls stuffed with glass noodles, shredded carrots, and chicken, along with a salmon onigiri and green tea. When I arrived at the airport, my boarding pass and checked luggage were ready, so I breezed through security in five minutes and prepared to head home.
For many, layovers are a burden - a long wait in a fluorescent-lit room with uncomfortable chairs, counting the minutes until the next flight. But for those with time and the right paperwork, I urge you to explore your layover city. Even if you don't accomplish much, the experience will be worth your while.
A classic Japanese taxi at Heiwajima Station, the sights and sounds of my layover visit to Tokyo Haneda airport are bringing fond memories as I share this with you. © Ayush Madan
FAQs
Can I leave the airport during a layover at Haneda Airport?
Yes, you can leave Haneda Airport during a layover, provided you meet certain conditions:
- First, you are correct about questioning whether you have the necessary visa to enter Japan. Some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for short stays.
- Second, allocate sufficient time to clear customs, explore the city, and return to the airport for your connecting flight. Aim to be back at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your departure. With an 8-hour layover, you should have plenty of time!
- Lastly, consider your luggage situation. If your luggage is checked through to your final destination, you can leave it at the airport. However, if you need to collect your luggage, explore options like airport storage facilities or carrying it with you.
By planning thoughtfully and considering these factors, you can optimize your layover in Tokyo and experience the city's distinctive culture and attractions!
I wrote a guide on how to make the most out of long layovers at Tokyo Haneda airport if you want to check it out... Safe travels!
What is the best way to get to Haneda Airport from Tokyo city center?
Here's a short summary of your options:
- For a fast journey, the Tokyo Monorail gets you to Hamamatsucho Station in 13 minutes, where you can connect to the JR Yamanote Line.
- The Keikyu Line also offers an efficient route to Shinagawa Station.
- Alternatively, the Limousine Bus provides a comfortable ride, though it may take 45 to 70 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Taxis are available but are the most expensive option and a taxi ride from Tokyo city center to Haneda Airport typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. However, during peak hours, it may take longer.
I would aim to be at Haneda airport at least 2 hours before your flight to save you from running around and stressing out and also, here is a detailed tour of fun things to do during a long layover at Tokyo Haneda airport if you want some activity ideas. Hope you have a nice couple of days and safe travels!
What is the best way to get around Tokyo?
The best way to get around Tokyo is via its efficient subway and train system. Here are a few tips:
- Get a Suica or Pasmo Card: Rechargeable IC cards for trains, subways, buses, and even convenience stores! You can buy them at stations or the airport.
- Use the JR Yamanote Line: This circular line connects many major stations in central Tokyo, making it a convenient way to get around.
- Plan Your Routes: Use Google Maps or NAVITIME for routes and check real-time schedules.
- Ask for Help: Most people in Tokyo are friendly and willing to help. Don't hesitate to ask station staff or other passengers for directions.
- Taxis: While convenient, taxis can be expensive, especially for longer distances.
- Walking: Tokyo is a very walkable city, especially in areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.
For a detailed guide on making the most of a 15-hour layover at Tokyo Haneda Airport, check out this helpful article.
