Enjoy extraordinary journeys with us
When you fly from Istanbul to Tokyo with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport provides a modern and efficient starting point for your international travels from Istanbul. Located on the Asian side, this departure point ensures a relaxed experience thanks to friendly staff focused on outstanding passenger service. When planning your journey, remember that IST is one of two Istanbul airports, so ensure you are at the correct one.
For transport, regular buses connect the airport to the nearest Metro station and the city centre, typically taking 30-45 minutes. Taxis are widely available, but consider asking your hotel concierge to book an official metered taxi for you, or use SAWKOOP taxis for fixed-price transfers. Parking is available in the four-storey car park next to the main terminal, which offers 4,700 spaces.
Allow ample time for your departure, as security checks are particularly tight; aim for one and a half to two hours before boarding to complete check-in and security. Within the main terminal, you will find 112 check-in desks and 24 online check-in counters, along with several VIP and business/first-class passenger lounges. Comfort is key here, with spacious waiting areas, mother and baby rooms as well as prayer rooms. Stay connected using the airport Wi-Fi, available for a fee, or use the fixed internet kiosks. Before you board your flight, explore the shopping area, which houses several high-quality outlets selling watches, perfumes, leather goods and accessories.
Begin your Japanese exploration in Narita City, a captivating historical location that serves as the gateway to Japan. While many continue straight to Tokyo, a short stop in Narita offers a tranquil glimpse into the country’s authentic Edo-period past. This city, with its traditional character, is easily accessible from the airport via a brief train journey to Narita Station, making it an ideal first or final experience.
From Narita Station, you can stroll along the charming Naritasan Omotesando, a kilometre-long street where you will find shops selling regional crafts and have the chance to sample local delicacies like freshly grilled eel. This historical approach leads you to the magnificent Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. This highly popular Buddhist temple complex, founded in the 10th century, remains a vibrant centre of worship and culture. Explore the imposing structures and the peaceful Naritasan Park, an excellent spot for a leisurely walk through its seasonal gardens.
To delve further into Japanese heritage, visit the nearby Boso-no-Mura, an open-air museum that recreates a traditional Edo-period village, offering immersive craft workshops. Finally, for a unique perspective, stop at Sakura-no-Yama Hill, a picturesque park where you can relax and watch the aeroplanes take off and land at Narita Airport amidst stunning cherry blossoms in the spring.
Flight FAQs
Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Istanbul
Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Tokyo