Last Updated on August 18, 2026
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Planning a Japan itinerary can be exciting. However, if you’re arriving at Haneda Airport, you may wonder where to stay first in Tokyo and how to plan your route.
As someone who has lived in Tokyo for over 20 years and traveled abroad from Japan more than ten times, I’ve learned how to make long-distance travel more comfortable and manageable. In this guide, I’ll introduce convenient areas and hotels for your first night after arriving at Haneda Airport, with easy access to central Tokyo.
What to Expect in This Article:
- Which areas to stay in Tokyo on your first night after arriving at Haneda Airport
- How to reach Shinagawa, Shimbashi, and Hamamatsucho by direct train
- Hotel options and practical tips for a comfortable first night in Tokyo
Where Should You Stay on Your First Night in Japan?
If you have some time after arriving at Haneda Airport, consider traveling a little farther into central Tokyo. I recommend choosing an area that is about 30 minutes from Haneda Airport by a direct train and has hotels with comfortable and easy-to-use bathrooms.
Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, you can head out and explore the city without having to carry it around. Alternatively, you can take advantage of early check-in and get some much-needed rest.
If you’re taking the train from Haneda Airport, I recommend the Keikyu Line to Shinagawa or Shimbashi, or the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho. I’ll introduce each of these areas below.
Important:
If you leave Haneda Airport after 10:00 p.m., I don’t recommend staying in Shimbashi. More trains terminate before reaching Shimbashi at this time, so you may not be able to get there directly.
Early check-in
Early check-in may also be available for an additional fee, depending on room availability. I sometimes use this service when I travel, as it allows me to avoid the crowds at the regular check-in time and get some time to rest in my room. It can be especially helpful on your first day in Japan, and I recommend considering it if you arrive early in the morning.
Please contact the hotel in advance to confirm availability.
Keikyu Line and the Tokyo Monorail
Trains are generally reliable, affordable, and a quick way to reach central Tokyo. There are two main train options from Haneda Airport to central Tokyo: the Keikyu Line and the Tokyo Monorail. The Tokyo Monorail connects Haneda Airport with Hamamatsucho, while the Keikyu Line connects with other railway lines, providing access to Yokohama, Tokyo, and Chiba. Because they are separate routes, the other can be a useful alternative if one is delayed or suspended.
No reservation is required. You can simply buy a ticket from a ticket machine and board the train. For the latest train schedules, please check the official website linked in the information section.
Recommended Stations via the Keikyu Line
| Station | Shinagawa Station | Shimbashi Station |
| Access | About 20 min from Haneda Airport Terminal 3 | About 35 min from Haneda Airport Terminal 3 *Not recommended for departures from the airport station after 10 p.m. |
| Fare | Around ¥300 (approx. $1.9 / €1.6) | Around ¥500 (approx. $3.2 / €2.7) |
| Easy-to-Reach Destinations | Asakusa Shibuya / Shinjuku / Tokyo Ginza Tokaido Shinkansen |
Asakusa Shibuya / Shinjuku / Tokyo Ginza (on foot) / Kabukiza (on foot) teamLab Planets TOKYO / Odaiba / Toyosu Market |
Recommended Stations via the Tokyo Monorail
| Station | Hamamatsucho Station |
| Access | About 20 min from Haneda Airport Terminal 3 |
| Fare | Around ¥500 (approx. $3.2 / €2.7) |
| Easy-to-Reach Destinations | Asakusa Shibuya / Shinjuku / Tokyo Ginza Tokyo Tower (on foot or by taxi) |
Shinagawa Station via the Keikyu Line
Shinagawa Station offers direct access to Asakusa via the Keikyu Line, without changing trains. You can also take the JR Yamanote Line directly to major stations such as Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Tokyo. Shinagawa is also a stop on the Tokaido Shinkansen, making it convenient for travelers continuing to other parts of Japan.
What Is Shinagawa Like?
Shinagawa is a large and busy station area with a mix of business travelers and tourists. While it isn’t a typical tourist district, it’s a convenient place to stay, especially for travelers arriving at Haneda Airport or continuing their journey by Shinkansen.
Which Train Should You Take to Shinagawa?
You can reach Shinagawa Station directly from the airport by taking the Keikyu Line, with no transfers required. At Terminal 3, the Keikyu Line has separate ticket gates depending on your destination. For trains toward central Tokyo or Yokohama, use the ticket gates on the 2nd-floor arrivals lobby level.
From Haneda Airport, trains run mainly toward Shinagawa and Yokohama. Although the destinations vary, the electronic signs on the platform indicate whether each train is heading toward Shinagawa or Yokohama. To get to Shinagawa, simply choose a train heading toward Shinagawa. Even if it is an express service, it will stop at Shinagawa, and no additional fare is required.
Note:
Some trains terminate at Keikyu Kamata Station. Since Keikyu Kamata Station is before Shinagawa, these trains will not take you to Shinagawa. If you see one of these trains, it’s better to wait for the next one.
Hotels near Shinagawa Station
The two hotels I’m introducing near Shinagawa Station are Shinagawa Prince Hotel and Keikyu EX Hotel Takanawa.
| Hotel | Shinagawa Prince Hotel | Keikyu EX Hotel Takanawa |
| Access | About 2 min walk from Shinagawa Station | About 3 min walk from Shinagawa Station |
| Early check-in | Available depending on room availability *From 11:00 a.m., ¥2,000 (approx. $12.7 / €11.0) per hour. |
Available depending on room availability *From 12:00 p.m., ¥1,100 (approx. $7.0 / €6.0) per hour. Please check with the hotel in advance. |
| Features | The rooms on the upper floors offer great views. | Superior Twin rooms and above have separate bathrooms and toilets. The hotel was renovated in 2026. |
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Shinagawa Prince Hotel is part of the Prince Hotels group, as is The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, which I introduced in my previous article about rose gardens.
While the facilities are not particularly new, the location and views are excellent. Hotel prices in Japan have been rising in recent years, but it remains a relatively affordable option for a hotel from such a well-established group.
The hotel is surrounded by shops and has a small, town-like atmosphere. There are several Prince Hotels buildings in the area, so be sure to check which building you have booked and where its entrance is.
I have stayed at this hotel before. I stayed in a Corner Twin Room (17F–27F) in the Main Tower, which appeared to be a corner room facing north and west. Luckily, my room had a view of Tokyo Tower and the large railway tracks at Shinagawa Station.
Even corner twin rooms may not have a view of Tokyo Tower. It may also be worth requesting a particular view in advance. From the west-facing window, I could see the Tokyo cityscape bathed in the evening light.
If you’re interested in staying here, you can check the latest rates and availability below.
Keikyu EX Hotel Takanawa
This is another hotel conveniently located near Shinagawa Station and Shinagawa Prince Hotel. Although the hotel is on a slight slope, its entrance faces the street, making it easy to find. What stands out about this hotel is that it was renovated in 2026, and rooms in the Superior category and above have separate bathrooms and toilets. Being able to take a shower without worrying about getting water everywhere can make your stay more relaxing.
Its convenient location makes it a good option for your first night in Tokyo. It’s also a good option if you prefer a simple, straightforward route back to your room after a day of sightseeing.
Depending on the plan, check-out is at 10 a.m. (11 a.m. for two guests). As the redevelopment is not yet complete, some rooms may offer views of Tokyo Tower. Please contact the hotel for details.
Good to Know
The Shinagawa Prince Hotel complex includes convenience stores, restaurants, an entertainment center, a food court, and various other facilities, many of which are open to both hotel guests and visitors.
Nearby, you’ll find Takanawa no Mori Park, Maxell Aqua Park, and the Japanese Garden at Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa.
When we stayed at Shinagawa Prince Hotel, we had breakfast at Royal Host, a popular Japanese family restaurant chain nearby. There are, of course, many other places in Tokyo that you’ll want to see first, but having these options nearby can be reassuring.
View
Shinagawa Station and the surrounding area are undergoing redevelopment, so the views from the hotels may change as new buildings are constructed. It’s a good idea to check the latest information before making your reservation.
Some of these hotels may occasionally offer plans with a guaranteed Tokyo Tower view exclusively on their official websites.
To Travel from Shinagawa to Asakusa
To get from Shinagawa to Asakusa, take a Keikyu Line train again. However, some trains terminate at Sengakuji Station. Since Sengakuji Station is before Asakusa, these trains will not take you to Asakusa. If you prefer a simple route, it’s better to wait for the next train.
Shimbashi Station via the Keikyu Line
If you’d like to travel farther into central Tokyo, Shimbashi Station is another option.
Like Shinagawa, Shimbashi is well connected. You can take the Toei Asakusa Line directly to Asakusa, while the JR Yamanote Line provides easy access to other parts of Tokyo. Shimbashi is also close to Ginza and is served by the Yurikamome Line. The Yurikamome Line also provides direct access to teamLab Planets TOKYO, Toyosu Market and Odaiba.
Which Train Should You Take to Shimbashi?
You’ll need to choose your train a little more carefully. When traveling from Haneda Airport Terminal 3 to Shimbashi, take a train heading toward Shinagawa, just as you would when traveling to Shinagawa.
However, some trains terminate at Sengakuji or Shinagawa Station. Since these stations are before Shimbashi, these trains will not take you all the way to Shimbashi. Especially after 10 p.m., more trains terminate at Sengakuji or Shinagawa, so I don’t recommend staying in Shimbashi if you arrive late at night.
For the latest train schedules, please check the official website linked in the information section.
What Is Shimbashi Like?
Shimbashi has a more local, business-oriented atmosphere. It is popular with office workers, especially in the evening when the area’s many restaurants and izakayas fill up with people enjoying drinks after work.
It is also within easy reach of Ginza.
Ginza is known for its upscale department stores, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a convenient place for shopping and dining.
Take the Elevator to Street Level
When you take a Keikyu Line train from Haneda Airport to Shimbashi Station, the line name changes to the Toei Asakusa Line along the way. There are two ticket gates at Shimbashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line. To reach street level by elevator, use the ticket gate near Exit A3.
After exiting the ticket gate, you’ll see a tourist information center on your right. Turn right, and you’ll find elevators on both sides of PLAZA, a lifestyle goods store, directly ahead. If you’re heading to the hotel mentioned below, the elevator on the left is closer.
I’ve included a station map below for your reference.
To Travel from Shimbashi to Asakusa
To get to Asakusa from Shimbashi, you can take the Toei Asakusa Line from the platform where you got off. Simply retrace your steps and return to the same platform.
Alternatively, you can walk to Ginza Station and take the Ginza Line directly to Asakusa Station without changing trains.
Another option is to walk to Higashi-Ginza Station, home to the Kabukiza Theatre, and take the Toei Asakusa Line from there.
Hotels near Shimbashi Station
Two hotels worth considering are YOTEL Tokyo Ginza and karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza.
| Hotel | YOTEL Tokyo Ginza | karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza |
| Access | About 5 min walk from Shimbashi Station | About 6 min walk from Shimbashi Station |
| Early check-in | Available depending on room availability *12:00–2:00 p.m.: ¥4,840 (approx. $30.7 / €26.5). Please check the hotel’s official website. |
No information available *Please contact the hotel in advance to confirm. |
| Features | It features an open and stylish restaurant facing a wide street. | The beds are relatively spacious. The hotel has a lounge for all guests, as well as a mini lounge exclusively for guests staying on the Premium Floor. |
YOTEL Tokyo Ginza
YOTEL is a hotel brand that originated in the UK. It is just a 5-minute walk from Shimbashi Station. The rooms are compact, but they feature separate shower rooms, allowing you to relax without worrying about water splashing around you. There are convenience stores, a Don Quijote store, cafes, and Nara Prefecture’s official antenna shop featuring local products and specialties nearby.
Some rooms may offer views of Tokyo Tower, but please contact the hotel for details.
karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza
This hotel is located just behind YOTEL Tokyo Ginza. It offers rooms ranging from compact to spacious. Even the standard rooms feature a separate shower room. There is a lounge available to all guests, where you can enjoy snacks, drinks, and a simple breakfast.
A paid breakfast is served in your room in a traditional Japanese wooden box. The hotel also offers optional tours where you can experience traditional Japanese culture.
Hamamatsucho Station via the Tokyo Monorail
The Tokyo Monorail connects Haneda Airport with Hamamatsucho, so you don’t need to worry about choosing the right train. Unlike the Keikyu Line, the monorail runs above ground, offering great views along the way.
Hamamatsucho is not only a station on the JR Yamanote Line but is also close to Daimon Station, where you can take the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa.
What Is Hamamatsucho Like?
Hamamatsucho has a mix of office workers, tourists, and Tokyo Monorail passengers.
Nearby, you’ll find traditional Japanese gardens, while Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple are also within walking distance.
Tokyo Tower is about an 18-minute walk, with a slight uphill section. Walking through Zojoji Temple makes for a pleasant stroll, while taking a taxi from the taxi stand at Hamamatsucho Station is also a convenient option.
Hotels near Hamamatsucho Station
One hotel option near Hamamatsucho Station is Keikyu EX Inn Hamamatsucho Daimon.
| Hotel | Keikyu EX Inn Hamamatsucho Daimon |
| Access | About 5 min from Hamamatsucho Station About 1 min from Daimon Station *Not recommended for departures from the airport station on the Keikyu Line after 10 p.m. |
| Early check-in | Available depending on room availability *From 12:00 p.m., ¥1,100 (approx. $7.0 / €6.0) per hour. Please check with the hotel in advance. |
| Features | The EX Twin rooms have a separate bathroom and toilet. |
Keikyu EX Inn Hamamatsucho Daimon
This hotel is actually closer to Daimon Station.
You can also reach it by taking the Keikyu Line, but I recommend the Tokyo Monorail if you prefer a simpler route and want to enjoy the views along the way. If you’re coming by the Keikyu Line, you’ll need to choose your train carefully, just as you would when traveling to Shimbashi.
The hotel may occasionally offer plans with a guaranteed Tokyo Tower view exclusively through its official website. Depending on the plan, check-out is at 10 a.m. (11 a.m. for two guests).
To Travel from Daimon to Asakusa
If you are coming from Keikyu EX Inn, use Exit A5 to reach the Asakusa Line ticket gates.
For elevator access, use the elevator at Exit A1, which is closer to the platforms for trains toward Haneda Airport. Although this route takes you a little farther, there is an accessible route inside the station.
I’ve included a station map below for your reference.
Conclusion
Choosing a convenient area for your first night in Tokyo can make your trip much easier. If you arrive at Haneda Airport, staying near a station with a direct train connection can save you time and make your first day more comfortable.
Shinagawa, Shimbashi, and Hamamatsucho each offer different advantages. I hope this guide helps you find the right area and hotel for a comfortable start to your Japan trip.
Recommended For:
• Travelers arriving at Haneda Airport and looking for an easy start to their Japan trip
• First-time visitors who want a hotel with direct train access to central Tokyo
• Travelers who prefer a convenient location for sightseeing after dropping off their luggage
• Visitors looking for a comfortable first night in Tokyo with practical hotel options
Discover more Haneda Airport stays and experiences below:
How to Spend a Day at Haneda Airport | Food, Plane Views & Shopping
A Relaxing Stay at Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu | Airport Views & Tokyo Monorail Ride
Information
Information, prices and exchange rates are current as of my visit but may change. Please check official sites.
Tokyo Monorail
Keikyu Line
– Keikyu Web Haneda Aiport Access Guide
Shinagawa Station
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Keikyu EX Hotel Takanawa
Shimbashi Station
– Tourist Information Center near the Toei Asakusa Line Gates
– Toei Transprtation Shimbashi Station Map
YOTEL Tokyo Ginza
karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza
Hamamatsucho Station
– Google Maps
– Toei Transprtation Daimon Station Map
Keikyu EX Inn Hamamatsucho Daimon
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