Sydney to Tokyo flights

Sydney to Tokyo flights will take you to the heart of Japan. On your Tokyo holiday you can see kabuki, a classical style of performance art, at Kabukiza Theater, window-shop in the luxury department stores of Ginza and take a relaxing stroll to nearby Hibiya Park, Imperial Palace, and Tsukiji Fish Market.

Flight Centre can help you find cheap flights to Tokyo from Sydney, so you’ll soon be on your way to the bright lights of Shinjuku, the butcher shops and vegetable vendors in atmospheric Yanaka Ginza, and the upscale eateries and shops of Chuo Dori Street.

How long does it take to fly from Sydney to Tokyo?

Sydney to Tokyo – 9 hours 35 minutes

Which airlines fly frequently from Sydney to Tokyo?

Qantas – Boeing 747

Jetstar – Boeing 787

Japan Airlines (JAL) – Boeing 787

All-Nippon Airways (ANA) – Boeing 787

Departing from Sydney

Sydney Airport (SYD) is also known as Mascot Airport or Kingsford Smith Airport, and is located 8km from the city centre. It is the busiest airport in Australia and consists of three terminals, with Terminal 1 the hub for international flights and Terminals 2 and 3 servicing domestic flights. A fast and reliable way to get yourself to the airport – especially during peak times – is the AirportLink train, which departs from Central, Circular Quay, and any of the city stations. Trains run approximately every ten minutes, with the journey taking less than 15 minutes. A one-way ticket is about $19. To use AirportLink, you’ll need to purchase an Opal Card. It’s easy to take a taxi or rideshare service to the airport too, but allow plenty of time if you’re travelling in the peak periods. Read more about Sydney Airport (SYD) transport options.

Where will my flight land?

The two international airports which service Tokyo are Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND). Narita is by far the primary airport for international flights, and is located 60km east of Tokyo city centre. A range of buses and trains service the airport daily, with the quickest route being to take the JR Narita Express. A taxi to Tokyo city centre will be in excess of AU$200 so thankfully, there are numerous other options. Haneda Airport is actually Japan’s busiest airport, but handles more domestic than international flights. Some airlines, such as Qantas, flight non-stop from Australia to Haneda Airport. You can easily get to Tokyo city centre from Haneda Airport via the Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Railways.

What is the weather like in Tokyo?

Japan’s capital has four seasons: mild springs, mild autumns, hot summers, and cold winters. The average temperature in Tokyo is 16 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Tokyo is spring. It’s the most popular of all Tokyo seasons, when the cherry blossoms are out, the weather is mild and events fill the Tokyo calendar.

Summer

Summer in Tokyo runs from June to August. It’s hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40 degrees Celsius and the humidity high. While June to July is Tokyo’s rainy season, it doesn’t rain every day, so you’ll have ample time to enjoy the city’s sights. The lively summer festivals of Tokyo make travelling to the city in summer worth the heat and humidity.

Appropriate clothing: Light, breathable clothing that dries quickly

Don’t forget: An umbrella and slip-on shoes (you’ll take off your shoes when stepping onto tatami mats, into temples, and into private homes)

Autumn

Autumn in Tokyo (September to November) sees crisp, cool and clear days. October in particular is a great time for travelling, as the humidity is milder than in summer but it’s still pleasantly warm. Bear in mind, September is a time of year that experiences the highest threat of typhoons – a risk worth considering when it comes to making travel plans.

Appropriate clothing: Clothing that layers easily to suit the changing weather

Don’t forget: Slip-on shoes, a waterproof jacket, and a camera (the autumn foliage is beautiful)

Winter

Tokyo’s winter (December to February) is clear and crisp. The city gets very little to no snow and the average temperature sits at around 5 to 8 degrees Celsius. It’s the perfect season to eat hotpot, see the illuminations in Roppongi, Ginza and Shinjuku, or head north for skiing.

Appropriate clothing: Warm clothing and a winter coat

Don’t forget: Slip-on shoes and a scarf

Spring

Spring in Tokyo (March to May) sees warmer days with temperatures sitting between 9°C and 18°C. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossom festivities and picnics, before the impending showers set in. At the end of April, there are national holidays (Golden Week) – this is a busy travel season so you may wish to avoid it.

Appropriate clothing: Warm clothing and a light cardigan or sweater for cold evenings

Don’t forget: Slip-on shoes and a picnic mat

Find out more in our Tokyo travel guide.