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How to Get to Katsushika

How to Get to Katsushika

Katsushika Tokyo, Japan Travel Guide

Air Travel: Gateways to Tokyo

Major Airports & Airlines

Tokyo is served by Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Narita is a major gateway for international flights. Haneda is closer to downtown and handles an increasing number of international flights alongside domestic routes.

Airport Choices

  • Narita (NRT): Major global hub for airlines like JAL, ANA, Delta, United.
  • Haneda (HND): Closer to city, increasing global routes, also JAL, ANA.
  • Direct flights from most major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, Oceania.

Seasonal Considerations

Flight availability generally stays consistent. Prices fluctuate based on demand. Higher costs appear during peak travel seasons, including cherry blossom season, The Golden week holidays, summer holidays, and New Year's.

Price Insights

  • Higher prices: Cherry blossom (late March-early May), Golden Week, Summer (July-Aug), New Year.
  • Lower prices: Off-peak winter (excluding New Year), early summer rainy season (June).
  • Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Services

Both Narita and Haneda are modern, world-class airports offering extensive facilities. Currency exchange, duty-free shops, diverse dining, lounges, hotels, luggage delivery, and free Wi-Fi are available.

Transfer NRT

Keisei Skyliner offers fast service to Ueno/Nippori, then transfer. Keisei Access Express offers more direct service through Katsushika. JR Narita Express to central Tokyo.

Transfer HND

Keikyu Line & Toei Asakusa Line / Keisei Oshiage Line provides direct or easy transfers to Katsushika. Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho, then JR lines. Limousine Bus also available.

Flight Search & Support

Compare & Book

  • Skyscanner for airfare comparisons.
  • Consider baggage allowance and cabin class.
  • Factor in layovers and travel time.
  • Utilize flight comparison sites for best deals.

Affiliate Support

  • IVisa for visa application assistance.
  • VisaHQ for direct visa and passport services.
  • World Nomads for adventurous travel insurance.
  • SafetyWing for digital nomads and remote workers insurance.

Traveler Note

Luggage Delivery

Convenient services send luggage directly to your hotel or airport, often arriving the next day. This is useful for traveling light for a day or two.

Tourist Information

Tourist Information Centers at airports staffed with multilingual personnel to assist with directions and local information.

Free Wi-Fi

Available throughout both Narita and Haneda airports.

Land Journeys: Trains, Buses & Cars

Train Connectivity

Katsushika Ward is exceptionally well-connected by train, a gateway to central Tokyo and neighboring prefectures. Utilize a Suica or Pasmo card for seamless travel.

Katsushika Access

  • JR Joban Line (Local): Connects Kameari, Kanamachi to Ueno, Tokyo Station.
  • Keisei Main Line: Aoto, Keisei Takasago to Nippori, Ueno.
  • Keisei Oshiage Line (via Toei Asakusa Line): Direct to Asakusa, Haneda Airport.

Bus & Car Travel

Extensive public buses in the area operate within Katsushika. Long-distance buses depart from central Tokyo terminals. Driving in Tokyo is not recommended for tourists due to traffic and costs.

Ground Options

  • Toei Bus and Keisei Bus operate local networks in Katsushika.
  • Long-distance highway buses departing from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku connect to other cities.
  • Buses can be an economical alternative to trains for inter-city travel.

Self-Driving

Driving in Tokyo is not recommended. If you choose to drive, an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your original license are required. Japan drives on the left.

Driving Advice

  • DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
  • Valid IDP and original driver's license necessary.
  • Parking is very limited and costly in urban areas.

Road Safety

Japanese roads are well-maintained and clearly signposted. Traffic laws are strictly enforced, and drivers are generally courteous. Pedestrians always possess the right of way.

Driving Conduct

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Strictly enforced traffic laws.
  • Pedestrians always have the right of way.

Car Rental Warnings

  • Driving in central Tokyo is generally not recommended for tourists due to complex roads and traffic.
  • Expressway tolls are expensive, and parking is limited and costly.
  • Public transportation offers a superior option for getting around the city.
  • Japan has a very low rate of road accidents, but remain vigilant.
  • Pay close attention to local signage and swiftness limits.
  • Zero tolerance for getting around by car under the influence of alcohol.

Water Journeys: Ferries & River Buses

Sea Travel

Tokyo is a port city, but direct sea or river arrivals to Katsushika Ward are not typical for international travelers. Cruise terminals are in other wards.

Port Access

  • Tokyo has cruise ship terminals (Harumi, Tokyo International The Passenger terminal) in other wards.
  • International cruise arrivals follow standard immigration procedures at these particular terminals.
  • Domestic ferries connect Tokyo (Takeshiba Terminal) to other Japanese islands.

River Buses

The Tokyo Water Bus offers scenic routes along the Sumida River, connecting popular areas like Asakusa to Odaiba. Some routes run adjacent to Katsushika's western border.

Scenic Routes

  • Tokyo Water Bus for scenic journeys along Sumida River.
  • Connects Asakusa to Odaiba and Hama-Rikyu Garden.
  • Easily accessible from nearby Asakusa for vicinity to Katsushika.

Departure Details

Japan levies a departure tax of ¥1,000 per person, typically included in your flight ticket. Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights (1-1.5 hours for domestic).

Departure Facilities

Departure terminals at Narita and Haneda offer duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, tax refund counters, Wi-Fi, and charging stations.

Travel Tip

Factor in potential rush hour crowds or minor disruptions when calculating your journey time to the airport. Utilize airport luggage delivery services from your hotel to travel lighter.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Japan levies a departure tax of ¥1,000 per person. This tax is typically included in the price of your flight ticket, so no separate payment is necessary at the airport.

Departure Timeline

  • International Flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1-1.5 hours before departure.
  • Complete check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and immigration.

Airport Services for Departures

Departure terminals at both Narita and Haneda airports offer a wide range of facilities for your comfort and convenience.

Amenities & Convenience

  • Duty-Free Shopping for souvenirs, cosmetics, alcohol.
  • Restaurants and Lounges for meals or relaxation.
  • Currency Exchange for any remaining yen.
  • Wi-Fi and Charging Stations to stay connected and powered.

Additional Departure Tips

Consider Rush Hour

Tokyo's public transport is efficient, but unforeseen delays can occur. Factor in potential rush hour crowds.

Luggage Delivery

Utilize airport luggage delivery services from your hotel. This allows you to travel to the airport with only a carry-on, making your journey more comfortable.

Tax Refund

For eligible purchases made tax-free during your trip, complete the refund procedures at the airport.