A near-future design with a sense of freedom
Haneda Airport’s Big Bird has been getting a lot of attention with its gaining of international routes and an increase in passengers. According to SKYTRAX which reviews international airports, Haneda became No. 1 in the world in 2 categories: Best Domestic Airport and World’s Cleanest Airport.
Haneda Airport provides everything in cleanliness, convenience, enjoyment and amenities. It’s not just a transfer point for domestic flights but is also a fun airport where you can enjoy watching the planes. It would be a waste to just be on time for a flight. By all means, get to Haneda Airport’s Big Bird Terminal 1 and spend a nice time there before taking off.
Let us introduce the domestic flight Terminal 2 which has gained in popularity since its opening in December 2004. First off, the building’s original design is impressive. With a motif of the ocean, it has a flexible design with curved lines everywhere, a dynamic vaulted ceiling, and a lobby where you can view the sea from any point. Its near-future design with a sense of freedom is a definite attraction.
When it comes to shopping at the airport, bookstores and souvenir shops are the usual, but there is the Marketplace which has high-class stores reminiscent of famous department stores along with a 100-yen store. There is also a great variety of restaurants and cafes so that it is difficult to choose one. On the 3rd floor of the Marketplace known as UPPER DECK TOKYO, the space there is so relaxing that it’s hard to believe that it is an airport with a food court, cafes and bars. You can take it easy at the sofas and tables, and not only can you have Japanese food but you can also partake in various international cuisines such as Sri Lankan, Thai and Turkish. On the other hand, there are also top-class restaurants on the 4th and 5th floors which are great for folks who want to enjoy a leisurely meal.
At South Pia on the 3rd floor, there is Japan’s first airport art museum called Discovery Museum. The theme of the exhibits changes sometimes, but since you can enjoy old Japanese art works for free, spend some quiet time with these genuine artifacts.
At North Pia on the 2nd floor, there is the Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu which is great as an airport hotel when you have to deal with inconvenient departure and arrival times and any sudden problems.
It’s just like its own city. Instead of just passing through, why not relax a bit here before starting that new voyage?