London to Tokyo – Flights, Travel Tips & Japanese Highlights
Last updated: 25 August 2025
Tokyo fuses high‑tech neon with centuries‑old tradition, making it one of the most captivating megacities on earth. Flying from London takes around half a day, so good planning pays off. This guide helps you time your booking, understand airport options, choose where to stay and discover the city’s highlights.
✈️ Flight Duration & Booking Tips
Non‑stop flights from London Heathrow to Tokyo Haneda take about 11 hours 40 minutes. British Airways, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways and Virgin Atlantic operate direct services. To grab lower fares, avoid peak cherry blossom (late March–early April) and Golden Week holidays. Book 2–5 months ahead for long‑haul deals.
Airport choice: Tokyo has two major hubs. Haneda (HND) is closer to the centre—30 minutes via monorail or Keikyu train; Narita (NRT) lies ~60 km east with express trains (Narita Express or Skyliner) taking 45–60 minutes. Consider arrival time: late‑night flights often land at Haneda.
🚆 Transfers & Getting There
From Haneda, ride the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho (connects to the JR Yamanote Line) or Keikyu Railways to Shinagawa. Taxis cost ¥6,000–¥8,000. From Narita, take the Narita Express to Tokyo or Shinjuku stations, or the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno; both cost around ¥3,000 each way. Limousine buses drop passengers at major hotels.
🏨 Where to Stay in Tokyo
Shinjuku: Neon lights, endless shopping and nightlife. Base yourself near Shinjuku Station for convenient transport across the city.
Shibuya: Youthful and trend‑setting; famous for its scramble crossing, Hachiko statue and countless cafés and vintage shops.
Asakusa: Home to the historic Sensō‑ji temple and Nakamise shopping street; ideal for first‑time visitors seeking traditional vibes.
Ginza: Upscale district for luxury shopping, art galleries and Michelin‑starred dining.
🌸 Must‑See Attractions & Unique Experiences
- Tokyo Tower: This crimson‑laced icon stands 333 m high and offers panoramic views over the metropolis; explore its museums, restaurants and shops at the base.
- Street karting: Zip through Tokyo’s streets dressed as your favourite video‑game character for a uniquely Japanese thrill ride.
- Ginza district: Stroll wide avenues lined with flagship designer stores, Kabukiza Theatre and Michelin‑star restaurants.
- Tsukiji Outer Market & Sushi class: Even though the wholesale fish market moved to Toyosu, Tsukiji’s outer market thrives with fresh seafood, vegetables and food stalls. Join a sushi‑making class to learn Japan’s culinary art.
🍜 Food & Drink
Tokyo is a culinary paradise. Sample sushi at standing‑only counters, slurp tonkotsu ramen in tiny alleys, grill yakitori in smoky izakayas or try tempura at specialist shops. Don’t miss convenience‑store snacks like onigiri and matcha sweets. For serious foodies, booking a seat at a Michelin‑starred omakase or taking a cooking class adds depth to the experience.
🚇 Getting Around & Etiquette
Tokyo’s public transport is world‑class. Purchase a reloadable Suica or Pasmo card to tap on trains, subways and buses. The JR Yamanote Line loops around key districts; metro lines cover everywhere else. Avoid loud phone calls on trains, stand on the correct side of escalators (left in Tokyo) and carry cash—many small eateries don’t accept cards.
🎎 Quick Tips & FAQs
- Book early: Long‑haul fares are lowest when booked 2–5 months in advance.
- Choose Haneda if possible: It’s closer to the city and has better late‑night transit options.
- Respect local customs: Remove shoes when required, be punctual and learn a few Japanese phrases; it goes a long way.
🔗 More Routes & Resources
Explore other route guides, read our travel blog and check the flight booking tips page for more ways to save.