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.
Since it is an important part of your holiday experience in Tokyo, it is best to find out about all the available helicopter tours in the city, their cost, discounts, timings, duration, departure helipads, weight restrictions, etc., before booking your tour.
Best helicopter tours
Helicopter flight over Tokyo Bay (10 mins)
Asakusa/Tokyo Skytree+Tokyo Central Tour (30 mins)
Tokyo to Mt. Fuji Helicopter Tour (90 mins)
Night Helicopter tour over Tokyo (22 mins)
Private heli tour over Tokyo (15 mins)
We highly recommend booking your Tokyo Helicopter tour tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
What’s ahead
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Cost of Tokyo helicopter tours
The cheapest and most popular helicopter tour of Tokyo costs ¥63,000 (US$399) for a group of three participants.
Helicopter tours from Tokyo to Mount Fuji cost ¥490,000 (US$3104) for three participants.
Prices of helicopter flights in Tokyo depend on three factors.
- Amount of time you spend in the air
- Time of flight – night flights tend to be more expensive
- Inclusions – a cruise around Mount Fuji is costlier than a quick ride
Tokyo helicopter tour options
Tokyo offers a variety of helicopter tours, each designed to provide a unique experience. You can choose a quick flight over the city, lasting as little as ten minutes, or a longer journey of up to 30 minutes. For a more adventurous option, fly to Mount Fuji and back, or indulge in a private tour tailored specifically to your preferences.
With multiple flights scheduled throughout the day, it’s easy to find a tour that fits seamlessly into your Tokyo itinerary.
But with so many incredible options, deciding which tour to book can be overwhelming. To make it easier, we’ve detailed all the available tours below.
Trial Plan: Helicopter Flight Over Tokyo Bay
The trial plan is the cheapest and most popular helicopter tour over Tokyo. If you want to see a lot in a short time and at a minimum cost, this flight is for you.
During this ten-minute ride above the skyscrapers of the Japanese capital, you will see the Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Bay, and perhaps even Mt. Fuji in the distance on a clear day.
Air Time: 10 mins
Meeting point: Tokyo heliport
Cost: ¥63,000 (US$399) for a group of three
Buy This TicketFor a 10-minute flight that includes the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, consider this helicopter tour.
Related: Experience Osaka from a helicopter
Asakusa/Tokyo Skytree+Tokyo City Central Tour
This 30-minute helicopter tour is an easy and fun way to discover Tokyo.
You will soar above Tokyo Bay, Shinjuku, the National Olympic Stadium, Imperial Palace, and Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest intersections.
Some of the other highlights include Rainbow Bridge, Kachidoki Bridge, Tokyo Station, Akihabara, Tokyo Stadium, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Haneda Airport, Roppongi Hils, Tokyo Tower, Ryōgoku Kokugikan(for Sumo), Skytree, and Sensoji Temple(in Asakusa).
Air Time: 30 mins
Meeting point: Tokyo heliport
Cost: ¥180,000 (US$1138) for a group of three
Buy This TicketRelated: Check out helicopter tour options over Yokohama
Tokyo to Mt. Fuji Helicopter Tour
On this helicopter tour, you take off from Tokyo, see the city from above, and then fly to Mt Fuji.
After seeing the snow-capped Mount Fuji from the air, you fly back to the city and take another aerial route to get different views.
This private tour is exclusively for your group of up to three passengers.
Air Time: 90 mins
Meeting point: Tokyo heliport
Cost: ¥490,000 (US$3,100) for a group of three
Buy This TicketWhile the 90-minute tour for three passengers is most popular, there are three other variations of the Mt Fuji helicopter tours: 75-minutes (3 passengers), 120-minutes (5 passengers) & 90-minutes (5 passengers).
Tokyo City Lights Helicopter Tour
Unlike the other tours, this starts from Funabashi Heliport. After taking off, you head straight to Tokyo Skytree and enjoy the night view of Tokyo.
As your helicopter passes multiple famous landmarks, such as the Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa district, and Tokyo Station Gallery, you will see the whole city illuminated by sparkling lights.
This nighttime tour is highly recommended if you want maximum bang for your buck.
Air Time: 22 mins
Meeting point: Funabashi Heliport
Cost: ¥140,000 (US$886) for a group of three
Buy This TicketIf you are a group of five, we suggest this 30-minute night time helicopter cruising.
Private Helicopter Tour of Tokyo
If you want to enjoy the aerial views of the Japanese capital city, but in your own comfort, we sugget this private tour.
During this small group experience, you will surely enjoy a personal touch of luxury.
Air Time: 15 mins
Meeting point: Tokyo heliport
Cost: ¥90,000 (US$569) per person
Buy This TicketRecommended
Tokyo Helicopter tour timings
Daytime helicopter tours over Tokyo begin as early as 9 am, with flights departing in regular intervals until 4 pm. During winter, these tours conclude slightly earlier due to shorter daylight hours.
Night tours usually start at 5.30 pm, with flights available until 8 pm, allowing you to enjoy the stunning illuminated cityscape after dark.
Tour inclusions, exclusions, & cancellations
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. Also, depending on the tour you opt for, there may be additional inclusions.
For instance, if you book this 10-minute helicopter tour, a private car pickup and drop-off are also included.
Ticket exclusions: Gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, and souvenir photos are usually not included in the tickets.
Cancellation policy: 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book a helicopter tour in advance? If so, how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Some tours might require booking a few weeks in advance.
What time of day is best for a Tokyo heli tour?
Mornings are better for the soft lighting, while afternoons offer bright, clear views. Some choose the evening for sunset views or night time to see the whole city lit up.
Can I request a specific route or landmark to fly over on a chopper ride?
Yes, it is possible – request for it once you reach the heliport. Most helicopter rides in Tokyo are private and allow a certain level of customisation.
How long does the helicopter tour last for?
The duration of a helicopter tour in Tokyo can vary depending on the specific package or route chosen by the tour operator. Usually, helicopter tours over Tokyo range from around 10 minutes to 90 minutes.
Is there a dress code or specific attire required on a Tokyo helicopter ride?
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.
How early should I arrive before my scheduled flight time?
It’s better to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled Tokyo air tours. This allows for check-in, safety briefings, and any last-minute instructions.
Is it cold on a helicopter ride?
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.
Are helicopter flights in Tokyo safe? What safety measures are in place?
Yes, the rides are safe. Tour operators adhere to strict safety regulations, including regular maintenance checks, safety briefings before each flight, and ensuring pilots are well-trained and licensed.
Can I take photos or videos during the Tokyo aerial tour?
Yes, taking photos or videos is allowed and encouraged. However, selfie sticks and large camera equipment may not be permitted for safety reasons.
How much do you tip for a helicopter tour?
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.
How many people can join a Tokyo helicopter tour?
Each helicopter tour is a private charter, priced for up to three passengers. Even solo travelers pay for the full ride, with no minimum passenger requirement. Most helicopters accommodate up to four people, including the pilot.
Are children allowed on chopper tours over Tokyo city?
Yes, children are welcome on helicopter tours over Tokyo. Infants under two years old can join for free and must sit on their parent’s lap during the flight. For children aged three and older, they are required to occupy a separate seat like adults. Infant seats are also available for added safety and comfort.
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, which is five minutes by car (or taxi) from Shinkiba station.
Address: 4-chōme-7-25 Shinkiba, Koto City, Tōkyō-to 136-0082, Japan. Get Directions
Nightime helicopter tour of Tokyo departs from the Funabashi heliport, which is about 15 minutes by car (or taxi) from both Funabashi Station and Keisei-Funabashi Station.
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.
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 old, they must sit separately as adults. Infant seats are available in the helicopters.
Are there any restrictions for helicopter tours?
It’s good to keep in mind the following as you plan your Tokyo helicopter tour:
- Weight limits apply for a safe and comfortable ride.
- Tours have minimum and maximum passenger requirements; if not met, the tour may be canceled.
- Most helicopter tours are not wheelchair accessible.
- Photography is banned at Tokyo Heliport due to terrorism countermeasures. However, photos can be taken in the helicopter and during the flight. For photos outside the helicopter, consider departing from Funabashi Heliport or Yokohama Nishi Heliport.
- Passengers who have gone scuba diving within 24 hours cannot participate in a helicopter tour.
- Only service animals are allowed onboard.
- All tours are private, meaning only your group will be on the flight.
- Infants must sit on their caregiver’s lap during the flight.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
- A valid passport or ID is required.
- Flight times may vary due to weather conditions.
- Seating arrangements are determined by the organizers for safety and balance.
Best operators? AIROS Skyview and H.I.S. Co Ltd are two of the most popular helicopter tour operators in Tokyo.
