Setagaya Tokyo, Japan Travel Guide
Tokyo is served by Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Narita, east of Tokyo, traditionally serves as the main international gateway. Haneda Airport, closer to central Tokyo, handles a mix of international and domestic flights. For convenience when traveling to Setagaya, Haneda is typically the preferred option due to its proximity.
Both NRT and HND offer extensive facilities: currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, restaurants, shops, hotels, luggage services, and tourist information. Flight prices change seasonally. Higher prices occur during peak seasons (cherry blossom, autumn foliage) and major Japanese holidays (Golden Week, Obon, New Year). Prices generally drop during winter (excluding New Year) and rainy season (June-mid-July).
HND offers direct and quick connections to Setagaya (30-60 minutes).
NRT is further from Setagaya, requiring longer transfer times (90-120+ minutes).
Direct buses from both air terminals to major stations/hotels, convenient for luggage.
Counters, ATMs at both NRT and HND.
Free Wi-Fi at both airports.
Tourist information centers available.
Japan's railway network is extensive and highly efficient. Setagaya is well-served by private railway lines: Tokyu Corporation's Den-en-toshi Line, Oimachi Line, and the unique Setagaya Line (a tram-like light rail). The Keio Corporation's Keio Line and Inokashira Line serve northern Setagaya. For longer travels across Japan, the Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Tokyo to other main urban centers, providing rapid and comfortable travel.
Long-distance bus options provide an alternative for inter-city travel. These generally cost less than the Shinkansen but take longer. Major bus terminals, like Shinjuku Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku), offer services to cities across Japan. Several companies operate these routes, and booking in advance is advisable, especially for popular destinations or overnight services.
Self-driving is not advised for exploring Setagaya or central Tokyo. The public transport system is excellent, traffic can be heavy, parking costs are high, and navigating complex road systems has challenges. If you plan to drive outside Tokyo, an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in your home country before departure is necessary, along with your national driver's license.
Tokyo Port, with facilities like the Harumi Passenger Ship Terminal and Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, serves some domestic and international cruise ships. However, arrival by sea is not a common mode of entry for most international tourists heading to Setagaya. For those arriving by cruise, standard immigration procedures apply at the seaport. From the harbor terminals, local buses or taxis connect to train and subway stations.
When preparing for your departure from Japan, keep a few places in mind. A JPY 1,000 "International Tourist Tax," also known as the "Sayonara Tax," is included in airfare or sea passage for all departures from Japan by air or sea. This tax applies to all travelers, regardless of nationality.
Both Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports offer extensive facilities for departing travelers. These include duty-free shopping, a wide range of restaurants, comfortable lounges, currency exchange services, and baggage services. Enjoy a meal, purchase souvenirs, or relax prior to your flight.
Factor in travel time to the airport from Setagaya.
Purchase souvenirs at airport shops.
Final currency exchange before departure.
If you plan to rent a car for excursions outside Tokyo, an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your national driver's license are necessary. Obtain your IDP in your home country before departure.
Online platforms simplify car rental bookings. Compare prices and vehicle types across various providers.
Less common for tourists; appropriate international permits necessary.
Drive on the left side of the road; speed limits strictly enforced.
Generally excellent and well-maintained.
