From neon-lit nights in Shibuya to quiet mornings at centuries-old shrines, Tokyo, Japan, blends futuristic innovation with deep-rooted tradition.
Whether you're drawn to its sushi counters, cherry blossoms, anime arcades, or bullet-train adventures, Tokyo leaves travelers inspired. With flexible dates, price alerts, and fare comparison tools, CheapOair makes it easy to book cheap flights to Tokyo and plan a trip that matches your pace
How to Find Budget Flights to Tokyo
Looking for our best Tokyo airfare from the U.S.? Use these tips to cut costs and plan smarter:
| Tip |
Why It Works |
For U.S. Travelers |
| Fly midweek |
Lighter travel days = better prices |
Save up to 20% from LAX or JFK compared to weekends |
| Compare airports |
Haneda is closer, Narita is often cheaper |
Choose based on airport proximity or fare |
| Use flexible dates |
Shoulder season typically offers our most deals |
March, May and November are often lower in price |
| Mix airlines |
Try to separate one-way flights |
Combine the budget and national carriers |
| Set price alerts |
Get notified on fare drops |
Ideal 60-90 days ahead for our best pricing |
| Book early |
Avoid last-minute price increases |
Great for cherry blossom sightings and New Year's travel |
- Pro tip: CheapOair data shows our lowest Tokyo fares often appear 8–10 weeks before your departure date.
When Is Our Best Time to Visit Tokyo?
Tokyo is a city of four seasons, each one deeply tied to cultural rituals, festivals, and travel patterns.
Low Season (Jan–Feb)
Tokyo slows in winter, and so do prices. Great for sightseeing with fewer crowds. Expect round-trip fares from the U.S. in the $550–$700 range.
Shoulder Season (Mar–May, Sept–Nov)
Light jackets, blooming cherry trees, and bright fall leaves, this is Tokyo at its prettiest. Airfares are modest and the weather is sublime.
Peak Season (Late March–Early April, Late Dec)
Cherry blossom season and New Year’s are peak travel times. Book at least 2–3 months out to get our best prices.
What You Need to Know Before Flying to Tokyo
- Flight time: ~13 hours from NYC, ~11 from LAX or SEA
- Airports: Narita (NRT) – farther, often less expensive; Haneda (HND) – closer, more convenient for late arrivals
- Passport: Ensure it's valid for the duration of your trip
- Packing tip: Bring a Type A or B adapter; voltage is 100V
- Connectivity: Public Wi-Fi is improving, but renting a pocket Wi-Fi or local SIM card is a smart move
- Navigation: Google Maps works great; hyper-efficient trains connect virtually every corner
- Etiquette: Quiet voices, organized lines, and no phone calls on trains, respecting order is appreciated
- Airport transport:Take the Narita Express (~55 mins) or Haneda’s Tokyo Monorail and local train to get downtown efficiently
Quick Tips for Smart Savings
- Set alerts for airfare deals to both Haneda and Narita
- Pick shoulder seasons for better fares and fewer crowds
- Book early and take overnight flights to maximize time
- Choose IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for easier (and sometimes cheaper) local travel
- Consider smaller accommodations like business hotels or capsule stays to save
Why Tokyo Captivates Every Traveler
Tokyo feels like multiple cities layered into one—each neighborhood its own world.
Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Explore Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa at sunrise, then ride to Shibuya Sky for futuristic skyline views. Walk through the forest path of Meiji Shrine, then dine beneath glowing billboards in Shinjuku.
Pop Culture & Electric Streets
- Akihabara: Anime, manga, arcades, collectibles
- Odaiba: Digital art museums, futuristic waterfront
- Ikebukuro: Otome Road, Pokémon Center, Ghibli vibes
Food That Redefines Flavor
Tokyo holds more Michelin-star restaurants than any city in the world, yet some of its best meals come from tiny noodle counters or convenience stores. Try:
- Sushi at Tsukiji Outer Market
- Tonkatsu in Ueno
- Ramen in Shinjuku
- Wagashi (desserts) in Ginza
Neighborhoods with Character
- Harajuku: Fashion, youth culture, crepes
- Daikanyama: Cafés, boutiques, architecture
- Shimokitazawa: Vintage shopping, indie music
- Ginza: High-end shopping and sushi artistry
Easy Day Trips
- Mt. Fuji / Hakone: Hot springs + views
- Nikko: Temples and waterfalls
- Kyoto: Just 2.5 hours by Shinkansen
Every corner of Tokyo feels intentional, artistic, and alive, making it a destination travelers return to again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is our cheapest time to fly to Tokyo?
A. January and February usually offer our lowest fares, while November also provides good value with vibrant autumn colors. Prices may increase during peak cherry blossom weeks (late Mar–early Apr) and Golden Week (late Apr–early May).
2. How far in advance should I book my Tokyo flight?
A. For our best deals, try to book around 2–3 months before your trip. If traveling during cherry blossom season or the New Year holidays, secure tickets at least 3 months in advance to avoid premium pricing.
3. What’s the difference between Haneda and Narita airports?
A. Haneda (HND) is much closer to central Tokyo and ideal for short visits or late-night arrivals. Narita (NRT) is further away but often offers cheaper fares and more airline options. Both are well connected by high-speed trains and buses.
4. How do I get from the airport to central Tokyo?
A. From Narita, the Narita Express (N’EX) or Keisei Skyliner takes you directly to major stations in under an hour. From Haneda, the Tokyo Monorail or Keikyu Line reaches central Tokyo in about 20 minutes.
5. Do I need a visa to visit Tokyo?
A. U.S. travelers do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 90 days, but you must complete immigration forms and follow standard entry requirements. Keep your passport easily accessible for arrival and hotel check-ins.
6. What should I eat in Tokyo?
A. Try sushi, tempura, ramen, yakitori, okonomiyaki, konbini (convenience store) snacks, and matcha desserts. Tokyo’s culinary scene ranges from Michelin-star dining to small counter restaurants hidden inside train stations.
6. What’s a good price for a round-trip ticket to Tokyo?
A. Round-trip fares from the West Coast often fall between $550 and $750 in off-peak months. East Coast flights tend to range from $850 to $1,100, depending on the season and demand.
Find Our Best Deals on Flights to Tokyo
Your Tokyo adventure begins with the right flight. Compare fares from hundreds of airlines, explore flexible date options, and get ready to experience a city where ancient temples and futuristic towers stand side by side. Tokyo awaits. Book your airfare today.