Tokyo → Osaka by Flight
Airport choice
HND ↔ ITM
Lowest ground timeFare: ¥8,000–¥15,000+
Fastest city access; frequent domestic flights.
HND ↔ KIX
Low–Medium ground timeFare: ¥7,000–¥15,000
Good balance of time and fares.
NRT ↔ KIX
Higher ground timeFare: ¥6,000–¥12,000
Often cheapest with LCCs.
NRT ↔ ITM
Higher ground timeFare: Varies
Less common.
| Pair | Ground time* | Typical fare (no bags) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HND ↔ ITM | Lowest (20–40 min each side) | ¥8,000–¥15,000+ | Fastest city access; frequent domestic flights |
| HND ↔ KIX | Low–Medium | ¥7,000–¥15,000 | Good balance of time and fares |
| NRT ↔ KIX | Higher (60–90 min side on Tokyo) | ¥6,000–¥12,000 | Often cheapest with LCCs |
| NRT ↔ ITM | Higher | Varies | Less common |
*Ground time includes typical transfers; check exact routes for your origin/destination. Budget fares may exclude luggage; verify fees before booking.
Total time vs Shinkansen
Door-to-door time = city → airport transfer + check-in/security + flight + arrival procedures + airport → city transfer.
- With light luggage and convenient airports (HND/ITM), flight can be competitive.
- Tokyo to Osaka flight vs train: if you’re far from airports or carry multiple bags, Shinkansen often wins.
Luggage & fees
- Check your fare for included luggage; budget fares may charge for carry-on/checked bags.
- Weight/size limits vary by airline; excess fees can make train cheaper overall.
- Airport access: Haneda (Monorail/Keikyu), Narita (JR/N’EX/Keisei); Itami (Monorail + Hankyu/bus), Kansai (JR/Nankai/limousine).
When flight wins
- You find a significant fare sale
- You are near HND and going to a destination near ITM/KIX
- You travel off-peak with minimal luggage
FAQ
How early should I arrive at the airport?
Domestic flights typically recommend arriving 60–90 minutes before departure; confirm with your airline.
Which Tokyo airport is better?
HND is closer to central Tokyo; NRT may offer cheaper fares via LCCs.
Do airports have good public transport?
Yes. Tokyo: rail/monorail/express trains. Osaka: rail/limousine buses to Umeda/Namba and beyond.