Overview
Tokyo is Japan's dazzling capital — a city where neon-lit districts, centuries-old temples, world-class food and bullet trains sit side by side. It is a bucket-list favourite for UK travellers, whether for a first taste of Japan, business or a return visit. Most flights arrive into Haneda Airport (HND), the closest hub to the city centre, while some services use the larger Narita International Airport further out. Comparing fares in one place makes finding the right flight to Tokyo far simpler.
Best time to fly to Tokyo
Tokyo is a superb year-round destination. Spring (late March to April) brings the famous cherry blossom, while autumn (October to November) offers crisp air and golden foliage — both are peak periods, so fares run higher. Summer is hot and humid with a rainy spell in June, and winter is cool but bright. Travelling in the shoulder weeks either side of blossom season usually eases prices; check the charts on this page for the cheapest dates.
Airlines and routes
British Airways, Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways (ANA) fly direct from London Heathrow to Tokyo in around 14 hours. For connecting options — often better value — Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Finnair (via Helsinki) and Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul) all serve Tokyo from the UK. From Manchester and other regional airports, a one-stop routing via a Gulf or European hub is the usual choice. Compare carriers for your exact dates to find the lowest fare.
Things to do in Tokyo
Tokyo blends the ultra-modern with the deeply traditional, all easily reached by its superb metro:
- Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo's oldest temple, set in the atmospheric Asakusa district.
- Shibuya Crossing: the world's busiest pedestrian scramble, buzzing with energy day and night.
- Meiji Shrine: a serene forest shrine offering calm in the heart of the city.
- Shinjuku & Golden Gai: soaring skyscrapers, neon nightlife and tiny lantern-lit bars.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: a food-lover's paradise for fresh sushi and street snacks.
At Haneda Airport (HND)
Haneda sits about 15 km from central Tokyo, making it the most convenient gateway, with duty-free shopping, currency exchange, ATMs and excellent dining. The Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line whisk you into the city in under 30 minutes, and taxis and airport buses are readily available. Narita, used by some services, is around 60 km out but well connected by the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner trains.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Tokyo
- Book roughly 2–4 months ahead — long-haul fares to Japan rise close to departure.
- Avoid the cherry blossom and autumn peaks; shoulder weeks are noticeably cheaper.
- Be flexible with dates — midweek departures often beat weekend prices.
- Compare direct and one-stop options; a single Gulf-hub connection can save a good deal.
Travel essentials
- UK passport holders do not need a visa for short tourist or business trips to Japan of up to 90 days.
- The local currency is the Japanese yen (JPY); carry some cash as many small venues are cash-only.
- A Suica or Pasmo travel card makes getting around Tokyo effortless.