Tokyo is brash, colourful, and steeped in rich ancient history. This crowded but vibrant city is one of Asia’s most important business hubs. It’s also a popular resting spot before heading out to one of the many exclusive ski resorts.
The food alone is worth travelling to Tokyo for and there are almost limitless activities to take advantage of.
Geographically speaking, Japan is a little isolated, so many flights to Tokyo are long-haul. Chartering a private jet ensures the best in speed, efficiency, and comfort, so here are some of the top charter routes that connect to Tokyo:
Let’s start with the shortest one.
Topics
1. Private Charter: Osaka to Tokyo
Osaka is Japan’s second-largest city and serves as an important hub for commerce mainly due to the large port situated there. Besides business, Osaka features its own vibrant culture and it’s a bit calmer than Tokyo.
A short hop across Japan, it only takes 55 mins to get from city to city. With prices starting from ¥839,100 (£5,197) for a light jet, a private charter is a pleasurable way to complete the journey.
Osaka to Tokyo: Pricing Options
Given the short distance, the prices aren’t too high and all types of jets take the same amount of time. A light jet is best for this route unless you have a large amount of luggage or people with you.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price from London | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | ¥839,100 (£5,197) | 50 mins |
Midsize Jet | 10 | ¥1,128,445 (£6,989) | 55 mins |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥1,562,463 (£9,678) | 55 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥1,953,078 (£12,097) | 55 mins |
Osaka to Tokyo: Airport Options
Thanks to its importance for Japan’s commerce, there are two large airports serving Osaka.
Both have private amenities and good transfer options. Choose the airport closest to your location and you won’t spend unnecessary time travelling.
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Kansai is Osaka’s main airport and the closest one to nearby Kobe and Kyoto. From Kobe, the journey is about an hour long by taxi or you can get a 30-minute ferry direct to the airport. From Kyoto, the journey is a little longer at 1 h 30 mins.
Osaka city center is 30 mins from the airport. You can take a taxi or one of the many convenient and fast public transport options.
The airport itself is well set up for private flyers with VIP facilities and conference rooms on site.
Three FBOs await you, all with high-quality facilities and beautiful jets to choose from
Osaka (Itami) International Airport (ITM)
Itami is the main regional airport for the area. It’s an hour from both Kyoto and Kobe and a mere 17 mins from central Osaka. It’s also well-served by the city’s clean and efficient train network.
There is a VIP lounge, amenities, and conference rooms in the airport but there are no FBOs situated here. With that said, you can still arrange for your private charter to take off from this location.
2. Private Charter: Seoul to Tokyo
Seoul is a vast metropolis providing vital business relations between Japan and South Korea. It’s arguably just as crazy as Tokyo with many interesting activities going on.
Whether you’ve been relaxing in a jimjilbang or participating in Korea’s beloved past-time – karaoke, a private charter will quickly return you to Tokyo.
Journeys are quick, taking less than two hours, and thus reachable by light jet. Perfect if there are only a few of your travelling. Prices start from ¥1,678,200 (₩16,515,740/£10,394) for this journey.
Seoul to Tokyo: Pricing Options
Again, I recommend a light jet for this route. It costs the least yet takes the same amount of time as the larger aircraft options.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to Seoul | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | ¥1,678,200 (₩16,515,740/£10,394) | 1 h 55 mins |
Midsize Jet | 10 | ¥2,256,890 (₩22,210,826/£13,979) | 1 h 50 mins |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥3,124,926 (₩30,753,465/£19,356) | 1 h 50 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥3,906,156 (₩38,441,817/£24,195) | 1 h 45 mins |
Seoul to Tokyo: Airport Options
Two airports are available for your journey back from Seoul – Incheon International Airport (ICN) and Gimpo International Airport (GMP), both boasting a large array of services and FBOs.
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
Incheon is located west of the Incheon district of Seoul and is South Korea’s largest and busiest airport (it’s also one of the busiest airports in the world). Central Seoul is roughly an hour away by taxi (depending on traffic), and The Express Train or All Stop train takes the same amount of time.
Flying taxis are due to be introduced in 2025, so it’s something to look forward to.
The airport has 12 private lounges, gyms, nap zones, and spas. VIPs are well catered for here, so even if you have to wait for a while, you’ll find something to do
Five FBOs can be discovered at Incheon. Each is fully equipped to cater to your needs with comfortable lounges and a wide choice of jets available.
Gimpo International Airport (GMP)
Gimpo is better situated for those travelling from central Seoul. It’s only 15 km west of the Central District. A taxi ride is a short half hour to reach the airport. Here you can charter a private helicopter if you need to get somewhere fast.
This airport isn’t as fancy as Incheon but it’s preferred by private flyers mainly due to its proximity to central Seoul. Therefore, you’ll find many VIP facilities here, including seven FBOs who will happily arrange private jet charters to Tokyo.
3. Private Charter: Bangkok to Tokyo
Moving southwards to the tropical coastline of Thailand. Famed for its pristine beaches and islands, Thailand is a hugely popular vacation destination.
Bangkok is the best place to fly in or out of Thailand. After your resort transfer, you can sample the delights the city has to offer before heading to one of Bangkok’s two airports.
Taking about 5 h 30 mins, a light jet is not suitable for this route. You need to select from a midsize jet or larger craft to get to Tokyo in one leg. Prices start from ¥6,770,670 (฿1,776,014/£41,938), which is reasonable for a larger-sized craft.
Bangkok to Tokyo: Pricing Options
The midsize jet only takes 15 minutes longer than the large aircraft and is the cheapest option. Therefore, I recommend this option unless you’re in a particular hurry.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to Bangkok | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | – | – |
Midsize Jet | 10 | ¥6,770,670 (฿1,776,014/£41,938) | 5 h 50 mins |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥8,593,546 (฿2,254,173/£53,229) | 5 h 35 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥10,741,929 (฿2,817,716/£66,536) | 5 h 35 mins |
Bangkok to Tokyo: Airport Options
Bangkok’s two airports are situated in convenient locations and don’t take too long to reach. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the largest and known for its international flights. That being said, you can’t take private jet charters to Tokyo here, or anywhere else for that matter, so let’s move on to the second one.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is more famous for hosting budget airlines; however, it also has facilities to receive private flyers and arrange private jet charters to Tokyo.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
This airport is nestled within the central city area and only takes 30 mins to reach via taxi from pretty much anywhere in Bangkok.
This is an old airport and could do with a bit of updating, however, unlike Suvarnabhumi, it does have two FBOs at your disposal. Both have executive lounges and private terminals for you to enjoy.
4. Private Charter: Edinburgh to Tokyo
From Asia, we now head over to Europe. Surprisingly, Edinburgh is one of the most popular routes back to Tokyo. Probably because Edinburgh offers a rich history and is steeped in culture. Not to mention those stunning highlands close by.
The journey back from Edinburgh is just under 11 hours, so heavy jets and other larger aircraft are your only options here. These crafts offer the best in space and comfort, so the starting price tag of ¥17,187,093 (£110,506) is worth the investment for such a long journey.
Edinburgh to Tokyo: Pricing Options
A heavy jet is recommended here as you can fit all your entourage as well as your luggage with ease.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to Edinburgh | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | – | – |
Midsize Jet | 10 | – | – |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥17,187,093 (£110,506) | 10 h 55 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥21,483858 (£138,133) | 10 h 55 mins |
Edinburgh to Tokyo: Airport Options
Edinburgh is a very small city, especially compared with Tokyo. Therefore, there’s only one airport to take you out of the country.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Edinburgh airport sits to the east of the city. One of the best and most scenic ways to get there is by taking the tram. From central Edinburgh, it’ll get you to the airport in 30 minutes. Otherwise, a taxi takes about 20 minutes to get you there.
Signature is the resident FBO and will take care of all your private charter needs. A sumptuous lounge, business facilities, and VIP services all await you here.
5. Private Charter: Belfast to Tokyo
Belfast is a superb location and the main travel hub for the Republic of Ireland. Steeped in history both ancient and recent, this favorite route is where private flyers like to land for their Irish vacation.
The journey will take you just over 11 hours, so you’ll need either a heavy jet or a ultra-long-range jet to take you there. ¥17,187,093 (€123,608) is the starting price for a heavy jet.
Belfast to Tokyo: Pricing Options
Both heavy and ultra-long-range options are great here. Pick the heavy jet if you are travelling with many people and the ultra-long-range for a touch more luxury and style.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to Belfast | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | – | – |
Midsize Jet | 10 | – | – |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥17,187,093 (€123,608) | 11 h 10 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥21,483858 (€154,511) | 11 h 10 mins |
Belfast to Tokyo: Airport Options
Like Edinburgh, Belfast is a small city but it does have two airports available. However, only one is suitable for a flight back to Tokyo.
Belfast International Airport (BFS)
Belfast’s large airport sits northwest of the city and a taxi will get you from a central location to your flight in 30 minutes. Otherwise, a helicopter transfer will transport you in minutes.
Three FBOs will cater to your private charter requirements. Each has high-quality VIP services and lounges to take care of you.
George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD)
Situated just five minutes from the city centre, this airport is named after the famous footballer and is as close as you can get to the action of Belfast.
With that said, since it is in a central location, the runway is short and therefore isn’t set up to handle the large aircraft required to get you home to Japan.
6. Private Charter: Paris to Tokyo
Paris is one of mainland Europe’s busiest travel hubs, so it’s no wonder this is one of the most popular routes back to Tokyo. Whether you’ve taken some time to soak up the Parisian lifestyle or have been there for business reasons, you have a choice of three airports to get you home.
A little over 11 hours, the journey to Tokyo is best served by a heavy or ultra-long-range jet. ¥17,968,324 (€129,227) is the starting price for the journey and will ensure you travel in the greatest comfort.
Paris to Tokyo: Pricing Options
Like other long-haul flights, the craft you choose will depend on what and who you are travelling with. While more expensive, the ultra-long range is undoubtedly the most stylish option.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to Paris | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | – | – |
Midsize Jet | 10 | – | – |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥17,968,324 (€129,227) | 11 h 20 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥22,460,397 (€161,534) | 11 h 20 mins |
Paris to Tokyo: Airport Options
Three airports await you in Paris, including one reserved exclusively for private charters.
Paris Charles de Gaulle
Charles de Gaulle is 35km north of the center of Paris. The express train takes 30 minutes from central Paris, while a taxi can take up to an hour thanks to the traffic.
There is a special VIP terminal in the main building typically reserved for heads of state. You can use it but it comes with a hefty pricetag and you must reserve it in advance.
Alternatively, one FBO is located at CDG with its own VIP facilities:
Paris Orly
18km south of the center of Paris, Orly is ideally located if you’ve arrived from elsewhere in France. If you want to use this airport for your private charter you can, however, there are no FBOs located here.
Paris Le Bourget
Le Bourget is the private flyer’s airport of choice. Paris’ exclusive private charter airport has everything you could ever wish for as a VIP customer.
Located 15.6km from the city center in the north, Le Bourget showcases an impressive number of FBOs, as you get to choose from seven. Each has a plethora of lounges, amenities, boutiques, VIP, and concierge services. You’re truly spoiled for choice here!
7. Private Charter: New York to Tokyo
Leaving Europe, we have one final route for you. This time we’re heading from The Big Apple.
The USA’s most well-known city has everything a high-flyer could ever want. From glittering skyscrapers, fine dining, and a buzzing party scene to the calm tranquility of the nearby Hamptons. NY has it all.
The route takes 13 h 30 mins, so you will want to ensure your jet has ample space to lay down and get some rest and relaxation. Prices start from ¥21,093,250 ($145,686) for a heavy jet, although the ultra-long range is ever so slightly quicker.
New York to Tokyo: Pricing Options
For such a long journey, comfort should be first and foremost. Thankfully, both heavy and ultra-long-range jets can give you the space and amenities needed to travel in luxury.
The prices below are based on Amalfijets rates. Note that other private charter companies might have lower or higher prices, depending on the company.
Aircraft Type | Max no of passengers | Average price to New York | Estimated flight time |
Light Jet | 7 | – | – |
Midsize Jet | 10 | – | – |
Heavy Jet | 96 | ¥21,093,250 ($145,686) | 13 h 35 mins |
Ultra Long Range Jet | 16 | ¥26,366,553 ($182,108) | 13 h 30 mins |
New York to Tokyo: Airport Options
So many airports to pick from! New York has three airports at your service. Depending on where you are, one of the following options will be conveniently placed to cater to your requirements.
John F. Kennedy (JFK)
This is New York’s most famous airport, situated 16 km southeast of Manhattan. A taxi to the airport can take up to 90 minutes, so a helicopter transfer is the quickest option here taking just five minutes.
Terminal 4 of this airport is 100% privately operated (and the only completely private terminal in the entire US). There are plenty of lounges and facilities here for you to enjoy. Plus, three FBOs await you, each with their own VIP services.
Teterboro Airport (TEB)
Located 19 km from Manhattan, Teterboro is favoured by private flyers. This is because the airport is situated in New Jersey. Therefore, the taxes and fees you pay on top of the cost of your flight aren’t as high as an airport in New York. This can make a real difference considering the starting prices of private jet charters to Tokyo.
A taxi transfer will take over an hour, so like JFK, a helicopter transfer is the preferred option here.
Teterboro has VIP terminals, lounges, and facilities galore. Plus exclusive boutiques and fine dining to keep you occupied before your flight. Four FBOs are waiting to host your private jet and offer you high-quality assistance.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
We won’t go into detail about La Guardia, since it chiefly serves regional flights. Therefore, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to charter your Tokyo-bound jet from here.
For reference, one FBO can be found at La Guardia:
Which Jets Can Fly You To Tokyo?
Since all our routes are far-flung destinations, I’ve focused on the larger style jets. Turboprops are available for short-haul flights, so look into those if your route to Tokyo is less than 1,500 miles (2414 km).
Light Jets
Light jets are fabulous for smaller journeys, such as our routes from Seoul or Osaka.
Light jets are speedy but have limited room for other passengers and luggage. The range of a light jet is up to 1,700 miles (2,735 km) with a top speed of 400 knots.
The Nextant 400XT is a lovely example of a light jet. It has a superior flight range compared with other models. It can carry up to six passengers and also features a refreshment area.
Midsize – Super-Midsize Jets
Midsize jets are the most popular option for longer journeys (around five hours) or if you need plenty of extra room. These super speedy crafts can go up to 460 knots and are capable of reaching a 2,200 miles (3,540 km) range.
The Pilatus PC-24 has everything you need to travel in the utmost comfort. Plenty of luggage space makes it ideal for shopping trips, plus it has been specially designed to handle short city runways.
Heavy Jets
Heavy jets offer the ultimate in space and comfort. These long-haul aircraft can go up to 6,000 miles (9656 km) on one load of fuel and can reach speeds of up to 521 knots.
Heavy jets are excellent for crossing continents or travelling with a large entourage.
A great heavy jet is the Falcon 7X. Loads of luggage room and a sumptuous cabin make for a relaxing and spacious long-haul flight.
Ultra Long Range Jets
As the name suggests, these jets can go the furthest of all types of aircraft. Some can reach almost 8,000 miles (12,874 km) at similar speeds as heavy jets. So, they’re suited for the longest routes that the heavy jet can’t quite manage.
The Global 500 is a popular ultra-long-range business jet. It can fit 13 passengers plus two crew members. The cabin is an impressive size and allows you to move around freely.
Conclusion
Tokyo is an amazing city but it’s far from most other popular places. Therefore, you need to prepare yourself and get comfortable for a long-haul journey.
With a private jet charter, it doesn’t get a more luxurious or enjoyable trip. You’ll reach Tokyo feeling refreshed and ready to take on the craziness of Japan’s capital once more.