Distance

about 5,960 mi

Typical flight time

12 h 15 min – 13 h 15 min

Airports

5 × 2

Time difference

8–9 h ahead

This page covers the practical side of flying between London and Tokyo: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.

Quick answer: London to Tokyo is about 5,960 miles (9,590 km) and a typical flight takes 12 h 15 min to 13 h 15 min. In winter, Tokyo is 9 hours ahead of London; in summer, Tokyo is 8 hours ahead of London. The gap changes because of daylight saving time. London has 5 airports to compare and Tokyo has 2.

Airport pairs to compare

London has several airports, and the right one depends on where you are staying and which airline you fly. Heathrow is the largest and handles most long-haul routes. Tokyo has two main airports: Haneda is close to the city center, and Narita is farther out but well connected by train.

About the airports

• LHR · Heathrow
  The largest airport, west of the city, with the Elizabeth line and Heathrow Express to central London.
• LGW · Gatwick
  South of London, with direct trains to central stations.
• STN · Stansted
  North-east of London, used heavily by low-cost carriers.
• LTN · Luton
  North of London, also used heavily by low-cost carriers.
• LCY · London City
  Close to Canary Wharf and the financial district, with a smaller set of routes.
• HND · Haneda
  Close to central Tokyo and convenient for most visitors.
• NRT · Narita International
  Farther out in Chiba, with fast train links to the city.

Airlines with a major base at either end

• At London: British Airways

Airlines with a base at one end often connect through their hub. A specialist can compare nonstop and connecting options on your dates.

When to go and what to expect

London

Late spring through early autumn brings the mildest weather and the longest days. Winter is darker and wetter but often cheaper, with a price spike around the December holidays.

Tokyo

Late March to early April is the peak cherry blossom season, and autumn is also popular. Golden Week in late April and early May is very busy, and summer is hot and humid.

International trip: you will need a valid passport, and possibly a visa or entry authorization. Our international checklist covers what to check.

How long is London to Tokyo?

At about 5,960 miles, London to Tokyo is a long-haul trip. Itineraries can be nonstop or can connect, and a connection can add many hours, so compare total travel time as well as price. Check seat, baggage and change rules before you pay.

Time zones and timing

Depending on daylight saving time, Tokyo is 8 to 9 hours ahead of London, so you land at a local time 8 to 9 hours later than departure time plus flight time would suggest. Plan your arrival day around local time at the destination. Check the arrival date on any overnight itinerary, since it can differ from the departure date. With a gap this large, many travelers plan a lighter first day.

Getting between the airport and town

London: The Elizabeth line and Heathrow Express connect Heathrow with central London. Gatwick, Stansted and Luton have direct train services as well.

Tokyo: Rail and airport limousine buses link both airports to the city.

Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.

Good to know

• Check every airport pairing when you compare fares. Schedules and airline options can differ between them.
• A valid passport is required. The UK uses an Electronic Travel Authorisation system for many visa-free visitors, so check the official UK government site before you book.
• International travel: check passport, visa and entry rules well before you pay. See our international checklist.
• A valid passport is required. Japan's entry rules depend on your citizenship and trip length, so check the official guidance.
• Entry rules depend on your citizenship and can include a visa or an electronic travel authorization. Check the official guidance for the destination well before you pay.
• Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.

Flying Tokyo to London?

This route guide works in both directions. For other trips, see all flights from London or all flights from Tokyo.

Frequently asked questions

How far is London from Tokyo?

The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 5,960 miles (9,590 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.

How long is a flight from London to Tokyo?

A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 12 h 15 min to 13 h 15 min in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.

Which airports can I use?

At London: LHR (Heathrow), LGW (Gatwick), STN (Stansted), LTN (Luton), LCY (London City). At Tokyo: HND (Haneda), NRT (Narita International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.

Is there a time difference?

In winter, Tokyo is 9 hours ahead of London; in summer, Tokyo is 8 hours ahead of London. The gap changes because of daylight saving time.

When is the best time to fly from London to Tokyo?

In London: Late spring through early autumn brings the mildest weather and the longest days. Winter is darker and wetter but often cheaper, with a price spike around the December holidays. In Tokyo: Late March to early April is the peak cherry blossom season, and autumn is also popular. Golden Week in late April and early May is very busy, and summer is hot and humid. Fares are usually highest in the busy periods described for each city, so flexible dates can help.

Which airlines should I compare for London to Tokyo?

Airlines with a major base at either end include British Airways. A specialist compares them with other carriers on your dates, since schedules and availability change.

Do you show fares on this page?

No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.

What documents do I need?

A valid passport is required. Entry rules depend on your citizenship, so check the official guidance for the destination. See our international checklist.

Route details updated October 18, 2026.

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