International travellers arriving in Tokyo have continued to struggle with finding an affordable solution to get them from the airport into the city. To curb the spread of Covid-19, overseas arrivals are not allowed to take public transport within their first 14 days in the country – and that includes taxis. Narita Airport, especially, is far from central Tokyo; a private car making the trip could easily set you back around ¥30,000.
To help with the situation, Japan’s transport and tourism ministry is looking into offering alternative transport options for overseas arrivals, including special shuttle buses and potential trains with designated cars.
You’ll be glad to know that the former option is now up and running. The special Airport Limousine Bus, run by the Airport Transfer Service, is now in operation since Wednesday December 16. The bus will shuttle international arrivals from both Narita and Haneda airports to selected hotels in Tokyo. Do note that the bus service is limited to those who are staying at one of the hotels where the bus stops.
These buses from Narita and Haneda airports will stop at the following hotels:
Akasaka area
The Okura Tokyo
ANA InterContinental Tokyo
New Otani
The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Shinjuku area
Century Southern Tower
Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
Keio Plaza Hotel (from Dec 21, bookings from Dec 17)
Hyatt Regency Tokyo
Shinjuku Washington Hotel
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Hilton Tokyo
The buses will run three times a day from each airport; you’ll find the time table here. The fares from Narita airport are ¥4,000 for adults and ¥2,000 for children. The fares from Haneda airport are cheaper: ¥1,500 for adults and ¥750 for children. Tickets are available only through advance reservation.
With the volatile nature of the coronavirus pandemic, airport and transport rules might change abruptly. Please check the official website for more information, especially before making a booking.
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