Tokyo is one of the world’s biggest cities, and traveling through it can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time there.

The city has two international airports. Sometimes travelers who are on their way to Thailand, China, or other Asian destinations will need to take a layover in Tokyo, and sometimes this layover involves a transfer between Tokyo’s two airports. Fortunately, Tokyo is fairly easy to navigate, and it’s not hard to get from one airport to the other.

Narita International Airport – NRT

Narita Airport is the newer and bigger of Tokyo’s two airports. It is actually located outside of Tokyo in Narita Town.

Tokyo International Airport (Hanaeda) – HND

The older and smaller of Tokyo’s tow airports in Hanaeda. Hanaeda Airport is located close to Tokyo’s city center. If you are traveling into the city, it’s much easier and quicker to get there if you are going to be landing at Hanaeda.

How to transfer between Narita and Hanaeda Airports in Tokyo

Recently, I had a short layover and a rushed transfer from Narita Airport to Hanaeda. Although I didn’t have very much time, the transfer was easy and relatively quick. Here’s what you need to know if you are going to be making this transfer as well:

• When you arrive in Japan, you need to go through Immigration and Customs and collect your luggage before transferring to the other airport.

• Once you have cleared Immigration and are in the arrivals hall, look for the bus transfer counter. If you are unable to find it, both airports have excellent information desks with friendly English-speaking staff who are happy to help confused and jetlagged travelers.

• A one-way ticket from one airport to the other costs JPY 3200 (about $32 USD) and departs approximately every 15-20 minutes.

• Follow the information on your ticket to head to the correct bus station. Information will be displayed in both Japanese and English. Once you arrive, staff will check your ticket and help you with your luggage.

• The trip takes 1-1.5 hours (depending on traffic).

• The bus is clean and comfortable, with good air conditioning and free (and fast!) on-board WiFi.

• The bus has a toilet for passengers to use.

If all goes well, you’ll be enjoying a beer in the departure hall just about an hour later!