A Smooth Check-In: Navigating Haneda Airport Like A Pro

Haneda Airport, also known as Tokyo Haneda Airport, is one of the two primary airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area. It is located 14km (8.7 miles) south of Tokyo Station. The airport consists of three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the dedicated international terminal. The check-in process at Haneda Airport can vary depending on the type of flight and the carrier. For international flights, it is generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least 60 minutes before departure. Some sources suggest that 40 minutes may be sufficient for domestic flights, while 2 hours is recommended for international flights. Online check-in is available for some international flights, opening 24 hours before departure and closing 2 hours before. Passengers are advised to bring their passports and any necessary travel documents, such as visas.

Check-in times: Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure for international flights

When travelling internationally, it is recommended that you arrive at Haneda Airport at least 60 minutes before your flight departure time. This will give you enough time to complete the necessary check-in, baggage drop, security checks and boarding procedures.

It is important to note that the check-in process for international flights may take longer than for domestic flights. While 40 minutes may be sufficient for a domestic flight, international flights usually require at least 60 minutes, with some sources recommending up to 120 minutes. This is because the check-in process for international flights can be more complex and time-consuming, involving customs and immigration procedures.

To ensure a smooth check-in process, it is advisable to go directly to the third floor (3F), which is the designated departure floor at Haneda Airport. Once you arrive, proceed to the counter of your airline as soon as possible to complete the check-in procedure. Keep in mind that the check-in counters may change on the day of your departure, so it is recommended to confirm the counter location for your specific airline in advance.

Additionally, be mindful of any banned or restricted items that you are not allowed to bring on board. Each airline has its own regulations regarding these items, so it is important to contact your airline directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. This will help you avoid any delays or issues during the security check and baggage screening processes.

By following these recommendations and allowing for sufficient time, you can ensure a smooth and efficient check-in experience when travelling internationally from Haneda Airport.

Transport to the airport: Take a limousine bus, train, or taxi

There are several transport options for getting to Haneda Airport.

The Airport Limousine Bus is one option, with a route from Shinjuku to Haneda Airport. This takes around an hour and 40 minutes, and one traveller recommends this option for those with a flight departing at 8:50 am.

You can also take the train to Haneda Airport, as it is directly connected to the Keikyu Line and the Tokyo Monorail Line. The platform is on the B1F of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. The departure floor is the 3rd floor, and the arrival floor is the 2nd floor. The Keikyu Information Centre can be contacted for further information, and is open on weekdays from 9 am to 7 pm, and on weekends and holidays from 9 am to 5 pm.

Taxis are also an option for getting to Haneda Airport. There is a flat-rate taxi service available between the airport, Tokyo proper, and Kanagawa Prefecture. This service is available at Terminals 1, 2, and 3, on the 1st floor (Arrival Lobby). There are also standard metered rates applied in some areas.

Customs: You'll need to go through customs at Haneda and your destination airport

When departing from Haneda Airport, you'll need to go through customs at the airport and at your destination. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the customs process at Haneda Airport:

• Immigration Control: Have your passport ready and complete the entry or re-entry procedure as instructed. Japanese nationals can use the ePassport gates, but if you require a stamp, ask an attendant after passing through the gate. Foreign nationals will need an arrival card, which can be found by removing your passport cover.
• Baggage Claim: Check the flight information boards to confirm the correct belt number for baggage collection. If your baggage is missing or damaged, contact airline staff and present your baggage tag.
• Animal and Plant Quarantine: Depending on your departure country or region, you may need to undergo an import procedure when bringing meat, fruits, animals, or plants into Japan.
• Customs Inspection: Proceed directly to the customs inspection area with your baggage. Present your items for inspection, along with a Declaration of Personal Effects.
• Arrival Lobby: Check the nearby information display and choose your preferred transportation option.

To expedite the customs process, it is recommended to use the Visit Japan Web (VJW) website to obtain QR codes ahead of time. This allows you to fill out the necessary forms and speed up your clearance upon arrival. Keep in mind that the time taken to clear customs can vary, ranging from 20 minutes to 3 hours, depending on various factors such as flight arrival time and the number of travellers.

Online check-in: Check-in online up to 24 hours before your flight

Checking in at Haneda Airport

Online check-in

Online check-in is available for Qantas international flights (QF1-199) and other eligible connecting flights operated by oneworld, partner, and codeshare airlines. You can check in online up to 24 hours before your flight departure time. The online check-in service closes two hours before international flight departures.

Check-in times

For international flights, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport two hours in advance. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off your bags, and go through security and the boarding gate procedures.

Where to go

The boarding procedure (check-in) is carried out at the counter of the airline you are using. The third floor (3F) is the departure floor. If you are travelling on an ANA-operated international flight, you can use either Terminal 2 or Terminal 3.

Baggage: Check baggage at the check-in counter or baggage drop-off counter

When checking in at Haneda Airport, the check-in and baggage drop-off procedures are carried out at the counter of the airline you are using. It is recommended that you complete this procedure as soon as possible. Please note that the counters may change on the day.

If you are checking in baggage, it is important to be aware of the baggage rules and any restrictions on bringing certain items on board. For example, portable chargers, e-cigarettes, and lighters cannot be checked in. It is also important to arrive at the airport early, especially during busy travel times such as holiday periods. During these times, the roads near the airport and car parks can be very crowded, so it is suggested to use public transport if possible.

For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure. This will allow enough time for the necessary procedures, including check-in, baggage drop-off, security checks, and customs inspection. It is also important to keep in mind that some items, such as knives and golf clubs, are prohibited from being brought inside the aircraft and must be placed in checked baggage instead.

Additionally, Haneda Airport offers a new boarding process called 'Face Express' that uses facial recognition technology. This allows passengers to complete check-in, baggage drop, security check, and boarding gate procedures without presenting their boarding pass or passport. However, this service is currently only available for select airlines and flights.

Frequently asked questions