Best helicopter tours in Tokyo
It is always fun to see the layout of big cities from high up in the air, and Tokyo is no different.
Tokyo has many skyscrapers, and many of them, such as Tokyo Skytree, Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Tower, Roppongi Hills, etc. have observatories on the top floors.
But nothing beats the unique perspective one gets when you take off on a helicopter and see Tokyo from above.
*All prices are for groups of up to three people
Cost of Tokyo helicopter tours
The cheapest and most popular aerial ride costs US$385 per group (up to 3).
And at the higher end, the tickets can go up to US$2,850 per group (up to 3).
Prices of helicopter flights in Tokyo depend on three factors.
- Amount of time you spend in the air
- The time of flight. For instance, night flights tend to be more expensive.
- If the helicopter ride is part of a combo tour. For example, a cruise around Mount Fuji.
If you want too see the best of Tokyo on a chopper, check out the 45-minute skyscrapers air tour.
Things to know before booking your tour
Besides a ride in a state-of-the-art helicopter with a cabin with climate control, you also get free inflight narration.
If different passengers request more than two languages on the same flight, the audio commentary defaults to English.
All local taxes and service fees are part of the tour cost.
Depending on the tour you opt for, there may be additional inclusions.
For instance, if you book the 10-mins Tokyo helicopter tour, a private car pickup and drop-off are also included.
- Gratuities (which are optional)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Souvenir photos
However, some tours may include one of the above. For instance, if you book the 10-mins Tokyo helicopter tour, a private car pickup and drop-off are also included.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.
No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.
Helicopter tours require good weather.
If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.
Helicopter tour timings in Tokyo
The helicopter tours in Tokyo are operational all through the week.
The first batch of these tours can start taking off 9 am onwards.
They continue to take off in slots up to 4 pm. During winter, they stop a little earlier.
The first batch of night helicopter tours start departures at 5.30 pm.
They continue to take off in slots up to 8 pm.
Heliports & helicopters
From where do helicopters take off
Helicopter tours over Tokyo take off from different heliports based on the time of the tour you choose.
All daytime Tokyo helicopter rides start from Tokyo Heliport.
Address: 4-chōme-7-25 Shinkiba, Koto City, Tōkyō-to 136-0082, Japan. Get Directions
The night heli tour of Tokyo depart from the Funabashi heliport.
Address: 1 Chome-44 Kanasugi, Funabashi, Chiba 273-0853. Get Directions
After your sightseeing trip is over, you will land at the same place from where the helicopter took off.
How to reach the heliports
The Tokyo heliport is five minutes by car (or taxi) from Shinkiba station.
From the station, you can also take a bus to reach the heliport.
Bus Stop No 1: The bus bounded for the Wakasu campsite
Bus Stop No 2: Board the bus bounded for Toyocho, or Shinkiba Zyunkan
This heliport gets used for flights in the Greater Tokyo Area by both the Government and private helicopter tour companies.
The Tokyo heliport has a waiting room and restrooms.
Funabashi heliport is about 15 minutes by car (or taxi) from both Funabashi Station and Keisei-Funabashi Station.
Funabashi heliport does not have a waiting room or a restroom.
Restroom facilities are available at a convenience store nearby.
How many people in one helicopter?
When you book a helicopter tour over the city of Tokyo, you charter the flight.
That means you will be charged one price for up to three people.
Even if you are one person, you will be paying for the whole helicopter ride, and that is why there is no minimum number of passengers required for confirmation of the tour.
On most of the tours, including the Pilot, there is a limit of four people per helicopter.
Children under two years of age can join the tour for free, and they must sit on their parents’ lap.
If your kid is three years, they must sit separately as an adult. Infant seats are available in the helicopters.
Are the heliports and helicopters accessible?
Tokyo’s skyscrapers helicopter tour and Helicopter tour of Tokyo, Ueno, and Asakusa are completely accessible to guests with disabilities.
The aircraft, transportation, and surfaces are completely wheelchair accessible, preventing any inconvenience for the guests.
Which helicopter tour is best for you?
Air time: 10 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
Air time: 22 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
Air time: 90 mins
Pilot’s narrative: Yes
*All prices are for groups of up to three people
Restrictions strictly followed
- Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable helicopter rides over Tokyo.
- A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, they will be canceled.
- Most of these tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- The plan of Tokyo heliport departure is a part of the terrorism countermeasure of Tokyo, and photography and the picture taking in the site are banned. Passengers who would like to commemorate Memorial in front of the helicopter, please consider Funabashi helport and the night course from Yokohama Nishi heliport. It is possible to shoot in the helicopter and shoot during flight.
- Passengers who have gone scuba diving in the past 24 hours can’t go on a helicopter tour. Find out how long to wait after scuba diving before you can fly
- No other animals except service animals are allowed onboard.
- Since all the chopper tours in Tokyo are private only your group will take off together.
- Infants must be seated in the caregivers’ laps throughout the flight.
- You must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled time.
- A valid passport or ID card is required.
- Flight times are approximate subject to weather conditions.
- Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Want to fly over Tokyo at sunset?
This is a totally different experience because you see the city skyline bathed in warm glow of the setting sun. The evening takeoffs make it just the right helicopter tour for two, especially if you are a romantic couple. The tour spans 30 minutes and allows a small crowd of up to five people onboard.
Cost of the tour: US$2,759 per group (up to 5)
How about a flight over the neighboring Yokohama?
This 40-minute flight takes off just after sunset for fantastic sights of the city of Yokohama. Witness the traditional beauty of the Minato Mirai district. Experience the nocturnal views of everything from the Landmark Tower and Marin Tower to Yokohama’s Ferris wheel shimmering with night lights and the Tokyo Bay.
Cost of the tour: US$583 per group (up to 5)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions visitors usually ask before taking a Tokyo chopper tour.
Lunch or dinner is not included in the standard Tokyo heli tours. Typically, the overall cost of the ride covers the flight itself and associated services, if any, like a guide or transportation to and from the heliport.
Booking in advance is usually recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Some tours might require booking a few weeks in advance.
The best time depends on personal preference. Some prefer morning for the soft lighting, while others prefer afternoon for the bright, clear views. Some choose the evening for sunset views or nocturnal skyline views.
Most heli rides in Tokyo are private and allow customizability. With the norm of small groups of up to 3 or 5 people onboard, passengers can request flying over attractions of their choice.
The duration of a helicopter tour in Tokyo can vary depending on the specific package or route chosen by the tour operator. Typically, helicopter tours over Tokyo range from around 10 minutes to 1 hour in duration. Some tours may offer longer durations or customizable options.
While there’s usually no specific dress code for a helicopter tour, it’s recommended that you dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Loose items like hats and scarves might need to be removed for safety reasons. Footwear should be comfortable and secure as you will be climbing in and out of the helicopter.
It’s typically recommended that passengers arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled Tokyo air tours. This allows for check-in, safety briefings, and any last-minute instructions.
The temperature inside a chopper can vary depending on many factors such as the outside temperature, the altitude, and whether the doors or windows are open. Generally, it is cold on a helicopter only at higher altitudes or during colder weather. However, helicopters usually have climate control systems to regulate the temperature inside the cabin, and passengers can often adjust the airflow to their comfort level.
Rules typically include adequate lighting, such as position lights, anti-collision lights, and landing lights, for proper visibility. Additionally, pilots must be proficient in night flying techniques and can use night vision goggles, maintaining situational awareness, and following designated routes or procedures. .
Reputable helicopter companies adhere to strict safety regulations, including regular maintenance checks, safety briefings before each flight, and ensuring pilots are well-trained and licensed.
All pilots operating commercial helicopter tours in New York should be properly licensed and trained. Most companies will provide information about their pilots’ experience.
Yes, taking photos or videos is usually allowed and encouraged. However, selfie sticks and large camera equipment may not be permitted for safety reasons.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. The amount can vary based on the quality of service and your overall satisfaction. A tip of 10-20% of the total tour cost is generally considered appropriate. If the pilot or staff provided exceptional service and made your experience especially memorable, you might consider tipping more generously.
Still have more questions? email us at travel@thebettervacation.com
Popular helicopter tour companies
AIROS Skyview Tokyo Helicopter Tours
AIROS Skyview Tokyo Helicopter Tours is the leading helicopter tour operator across Tokyo. The company is well-known for its state-of-the-art helicopters, expert pilots, safety, and customer satisfaction. Visit AIROS Skyview Tokyo Helicopter Tours for more details.
H.I.S. Co Ltd(TIC)
As pioneers in luxury aerial experiences, H.I.S. Co Ltd(TIC) is based in Tokyo. The company offers helicopter tours with utmost commitment to safety, excellence, and personalized service. Visit H.I.S. Co Ltd(TIC) for more information.
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