How to think about this route
Non-stops are plentiful and usually the simplest choice. One-stop tickets via Seoul or Taipei appear on sale weeks — compare total travel time, connection buffers and baggage allowance before judging price.
Before choosing, compare the full journey: travel to Changi, security time, arrival transfer into Shinjuku or Shibuya and check-in time at your hotel.
Airlines on this route
Japan Airlines, ANA, British Airways and others appear. Compare NRT vs HND carefully — Haneda is usually closer to the city.
Singapore airport choices
Changi (SIN) is the main origin for this route, with strong MRT and taxi links across the city-state. Allow extra time at peak hours — security queues can stretch on busy weekends and holiday departures.
Some multi-city tickets include a Singapore stopover — confirm baggage transfer rules if your booking has more than one sector.
Tokyo arrival airports
Haneda (HND) is closer to central Tokyo and suits many city-break travellers. Narita (NRT) is farther east but workable by train or coach and may appear on some full-service fares. Match airport to your hotel area and arrival time.
Late arrivals may make a central, easy-transfer stay more valuable than a cheaper room requiring a long last leg after immigration.
Tokyo airports — quick compare
| Airport | Best For | Transfer to centre / resort | Main Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Narita (NRT) | Many long-haul UK arrivals | Narita Express / Keisei ~45–90 min to central Tokyo | Farther from Shinjuku/Shibuya than Haneda |
| Haneda (HND) | Closer city airport when schedules allow | Monorail / train often ~20–40 min | Fewer UK non-stops than Narita on some calendars |
Airport transfers — quick guide
- Narita: N’EX or Keisei Skyliner beat weary taxi queues after a long-haul.
- Haneda: Usually kinder door-to-door for first nights in central Tokyo when you can book it.
When to compare and book
Cherry blossom in late March through April and autumn foliage book early. January through February can be cold but clear in Tokyo. Singapore school holidays lift outbound demand on both ends.
For blossom and autumn peaks, start comparing roughly two to three months ahead. For routine trips outside peak weeks, four to eight weeks is often enough if you can shift dates.
Baggage and fare details
Short-haul segments in Asia may use different bag rules than your long-haul leg — read each flight number in the itinerary. Seat selection and priority boarding vary by airline and fare family.
Many passports receive visa-free short stays in Japan — confirm current entry rules before you pay. Get a Suica or PASMO card for Tokyo transit after you land.
Tokyo planning after you land
If Tokyo is your main stop, choose your neighbourhood before booking activities. Shinjuku and Shibuya suit different pacing; Asakusa suits temple-focused first visits. For wider Japan trips, check rail passes and onward trains before locking the hotel.
Use the Tokyo stays guide for neighbourhoods, then compare Tokyo experiences. Also see our London → Tokyo guide if you are flexible on origin.