Landing in Japan in the early morning can be both exciting and disorienting—especially if you’re arriving after a long overnight flight. Whether you’re stepping off the plane at Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda, or touching down in Osaka at Kansai International Airport, here are some practical and comfortable ways to make the most of your early arrival.
One of the most useful features of Japan’s major airports is the availability of public shower rooms in the arrival areas, a welcome sight for weary travellers.
Tokyo
Narita Airport (NRT) – NAA Shower Rooms
At Narita Terminal 1, there’s a paid shower room located on the landside, in the Central Building, 2nd Floor. These facilities are clean, well-maintained, and serviced after each guest—providing a private and fresh experience on par with airport lounge or hotel standards.
Capsule Hotel Option: 9 hours Narita Airport Terminal 2
Located in Terminal 2 of Narita Airport, the 9 hours capsule hotel offers both overnight stays and shower-only access. For travelers seeking a quick refresh, the shower-only option is available for ¥1,000 for up to one hour, providing a convenient solution for early arrivals or layovers. The facility is open 24 hours and is situated landside, making it accessible without passing through security. Amenities include towels, shampoo, conditioner, and body soap, ensuring a comfortable experience
Haneda Airport (HND) – TIAT Shower Rooms
Both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 offer shower facilities in the arrivals lobby, perfect for a quick refresh before hitting the city. Like Narita, these paid facilities are cleaned after each guest.
Capsule Hotel Option: First Cabin Haneda Terminal 1
If you’d prefer a short nap or need a bit more comfort, First Cabin Haneda offers compact, stylish capsule rooms. Located inside Terminal 1, it’s a convenient spot to unwind or rest if you’ve arrived extra early.
Osaka
Osaka Kansai International (KIX) Airport Lounge NODOKA
KIX’s Airport Café Lounge NODOKA, located on the 2nd floor of Aeroplaza, is a flexible space open to anyone—whether you’re arriving or departing. It offers showers, reclining chairs, and charging ports, with pay-as-you-go pricing. It’s a great option if you have a few hours to kill.
Capsule Hotel Option: First Cabin Kansai Airport
Located on the 3rd floor of the Aeroplaza, directly connected to Kansai Airport’s Terminal 1, First Cabin Kansai Airport offers both overnight stays and shower-only access. The facility features separate male and female sections, each equipped with private shower rooms and changing areas. Guests can also enjoy a large public bath, providing a relaxing experience after a long flight. The hotel offers two types of cabins: First Class and Business Class, both designed to provide comfort and functionality. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a lounge area, and vending machines.
Nagoya
Nagoya (Chubu Centrair International Airport) (NGO): TUBE Sq Capsule Hotel / Showers
At Centrair Airport in Nagoya, early arrivals have a convenient option with the TUBE Sq Capsule Hotel, located on the 1st floor of Terminal 1. In addition to full capsule room stays, TUBE Sq also offers shower-only access for those just needing to freshen up after a long flight. It’s a clean, well-maintained facility that’s open 24 hours and perfect for travellers wanting to recharge before heading into the city. Booking is recommended during peak seasons, but walk-ins are often accepted.
Outside the Airport
Manga Cafés and Capsule Hotels
If you’re looking to leave the airport but still need somewhere to relax until check-in time:
Manga Cafés
Known locally as manga kissa, these 24-hour establishments offer private booths, internet access, and shower facilities. They’re a convenient option for resting and freshening up after an early arrival. Manga cafés are typically located near major train stations or in entertainment districts, making them easy to access even in the early hours.
Capsule Hotels
Many capsule hotels allow walk-in stays or short-term bookings. These compact, efficient accommodations often include shower rooms, lockers, and communal lounges. They’re a great budget-friendly option if you’re waiting to check into your regular hotel. Like manga cafés, capsule hotels are usually found near major train stations or busy urban areas, ideal for early arrivals looking to refresh or rest.
Hotel Check-In Tips
In Japan, hotel staff are typically very precise about check-in times, and early check-in is not commonly offered unless pre-arranged. However, most hotels are happy to store your luggage for you until the official check-in time, which is often around 3:00 PM.
If you do want to check in early, it’s best to contact the hotel in advance and request it. Some hotels may charge a fee or offer early check-in based on availability.
Planning Your Morning: Avoiding the Rush and Exploring Early
If you’re heading into the city, keep in mind that most shops, museums, and attractions don’t open until around 10:00 AM. That said, you still have a few good options:
- Visit a nearby park for a peaceful stroll or breakfast.
- Take a train to a quieter destination or scenic spot a little further from the city.
- Be cautious of the morning rush (especially between 7:30 and 9:30 AM), as Japan’s train stations—particularly in Tokyo and Osaka—can be overwhelming during peak commuter hours.
Final Tips
- Cash is king early in the morning: Many places won’t accept cards until later in the day, or at all.
- Use coin lockers if you’re travelling light but don’t want to carry your bags all morning.
- Have a sim card or pocket Wi-Fi ready so you can navigate or find last-minute options on the go.
Conclusion
Arriving early in Japan doesn’t have to mean dragging your suitcase around for hours waiting for your hotel check-in. With convenient airport facilities, flexible rest spaces like manga cafés and capsule hotels, and a bit of strategic planning, you can turn your early arrival into a fresh smooth start to your Japanese adventure.
Airport Shower Room / Capsule Hotel Websites:
Tokyo
https://www.narita-airport.jp/en/service/salon/shower/
https://ninehours.co.jp/narita
https://tokyo-haneda.com/service/facilities/shower_room.html
https://en.first-cabin.jp/hotels/haneda1/
Osaka
https://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/service/business/11.html
https://en.first-cabin.jp/hotels/kansaikukou/
Narita
https://tubesq.jp/en/
