Flights to Tokyo from London

Tokyo is the largest city in Japan and the nations capital. Direct flights from the UK to Tokyo are currently only operated from London Heathrow airport to either Tokyo Narita or Tokyo Haneda airport depending on the airline.

When is the best time to travel to Tokyo?

Tokyo is a big cosmopolitan city and great to visit at any time of the year. Well known seasonal highlights include Hanami, the cherry blossom festival in April. Less well known is the plum blossom in February. Many other festivities are scattered throughout the year.

Main sites/attractions: there are numerous parks. temples and shrines throughout the city. Due to the diversity of this vast city, it is worthwhile visiting a range of districts to get a good overall feel for the place.

Climate: the city has 4 distinct seasons. Summers are humid and hot and winters mild. The time of the cherry blossom in March and April is probably the most picturesque time to visit but can also be very busy. February tends to be the coldest month of the year. The rainy season is at the beginning of July.

Practical advice for visitors to Tokyo

Entry requirements: those with a British passport currently do not need a visa to visit Japan for up to 90 days. Evidence of onward travel might, however. be needed. Please refer to the Foreign Office website for requirements regarding longer visits.

Language: most signs are also in English so visitors do not have to worry about the language barrier, but it is obviously polite to learn at least the rudimentary pleasantries in Japanese.

Prices and payment: most places in Tokyo will accept major credit cards but it is advisable to carry some cash just in case.

Airport arrival and onward travel options

The two main airports Narita Airport and Haneda Airport are both well connected to the city centre by public transport. The cheapest onward travel option from Narita airport is by train which takes over an hour. For a great scenic experience after arriving at Haneda Airport take the monorail to the city centre. Train services do not run between midnight and 5 am.

Public transport within Tokyo: The public transport system in Tokyo city is efficient, clean and fast but difficult to navigate due to the various public transport systems. Purchasing a Suica or PASMO card allows passengers to change freely between the systems.