

Traveling from Tokyo, Japan to Penang, Malaysia presents an exciting journey for leisure and business travelers alike. While there are no direct flights between Tokyo and Penang, a number of reputable airlines provide efficient layover connections, making this route highly accessible throughout the year. With vibrant cityscapes, rich history, and a tapestry of flavors waiting at your destination, flying from Tokyo to Penang is the ideal gateway to experiencing the best of Malaysia’s northern gem. This guide covers everything you need to know about your flight options, essential airport information, frequently asked questions, alternative travel routes, and must-see destinations in Penang.
With several international airlines operating on this route, travelers will find a range of layover options designed to suit varying schedules and preferences. Below are the three most prominent layover routes from Tokyo to Penang:
Route: Tokyo (Japan) → Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) → Penang (Malaysia)
Airlines: AirAsia X, AirAsia
Total Flight Duration: 9 hours 45 minutes
Aircraft: Airbus A330, Airbus A320
Layovers:
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (1 hour 30 minutes, overnight)
Route: Tokyo (Japan) → Bangkok (Thailand) → Penang (Malaysia)
Airlines: THAI
Total Flight Duration: 12 hours 35 minutes
Aircraft: Boeing 777, Airbus A320
Layovers:
• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok, Thailand (4 hours 15 minutes)
Route: Tokyo (Japan) → Guangzhou (China) → Penang (Malaysia)
Airlines: China Southern
Total Flight Duration: 11 hours 15 minutes
Aircraft: Airbus A321neo
Layovers:
• Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), Guangzhou, China (2 hours 15 minutes)
Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.
Haneda International Airport is situated approximately 15 kilometers south of central Tokyo, making it one of the most accessible international airports for travelers departing from Japan’s capital. It provides convenient access from downtown Tokyo via dedicated rail and road links, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. For more details: Haneda International Airport
Haneda International Airport comprises three main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (domestic flights), and Terminal 3 (international flights). Terminal 3 is well equipped to handle major international departures and arrivals, offering efficient check-in, security, and immigration services.
Accessing Haneda International Airport is straightforward:
Train: The Tokyo Monorail and Keikyu Line connect central Tokyo directly to the airport’s terminals.
Bus: Airport Limousine buses provide comfortable connections from major hotels and stations across Tokyo.
Taxi/Car: Taxis are always available, and the airport is well-signposted for travelers driving their own vehicles, with ample parking facilities nearby.
Haneda International Airport offers a robust range of amenities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience:
Penang International Airport is located about 16 kilometers south of George Town, the capital city of the state of Penang. The airport acts as the main entry point to Penang and the surrounding northern regions of Malaysia. For convenient travel planning, visit: Penang Intl
The airport features a single, modern terminal building designed to handle both domestic and international flights efficiently. The terminal layout is passenger-friendly and clearly signposted, ensuring hassle-free navigation for all travelers.
Getting from the airport to various parts of Penang is hassle-free:
Penang International Airport delivers a comfortable experience with amenities such as:
What is the flight distance between Tokyo and Penang?
The average flight distance is approximately 5,300 kilometers (about 3,300 miles).
Are there direct flights from Tokyo to Penang?
No, currently no direct flights are available between Tokyo and Penang. All available services include at least one layover.
Which airports serve this route?
Flights typically depart from Haneda International Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo and arrive at Penang International Airport (PEN).
What are the main layover cities on this route?
The most common layover cities include Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Bangkok (Thailand), and Guangzhou (China).
Which airlines operate flights from Tokyo to Penang?
Key airlines on this route include AirAsia X, AirAsia, THAI, China Southern, Malaysia Airlines, and others depending on your layover city.
How long does it take to fly from Tokyo to Penang?
Total travel time varies, ranging from around 9 hours 45 minutes (shortest layover) up to 13 hours or more, depending on the chosen route and duration of layovers.
Is there a significant time difference between Tokyo and Penang?
Yes, Penang is one hour behind Tokyo (Malaysia is UTC+8, Japan is UTC+9).
What is the best way to get from the airport to central Penang?
Public buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services are readily available at Penang International Airport for quick, convenient transport to George Town and other destinations.
Apart from air travel, alternative options for traveling from Tokyo to Penang are limited due to geographical barriers:
By Sea: There are no direct passenger ferry services linking Japan to Malaysia. A complex journey combining multiple cruises and regional ferries would be impractical for most travelers.
By Land: Overland travel would require a combination of ferry trips and long-distance train or bus travel via several countries, including China, Vietnam, Thailand, and finally into Malaysia—this is highly time-consuming, taking several days or even weeks.
Given the distance and geographical separation, flying remains the most efficient and practical option for reaching Penang from Tokyo.
George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site
Explore vibrant street art, colonial-era architecture, and the colorful history of Penang’s capital.
Penang Hill
Take the iconic funicular railway for panoramic views, lush forests, and cool mountain air.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Marvel at one of Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temples, renowned for its towering statue and impressive architecture.
Penang Peranakan Mansion
Step into the fascinating world of the Peranakan community with antique-filled rooms and heritage displays.
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Enjoy sun, sea, and sand at this popular stretch, famous for water sports and vibrant night markets.
Char Koay Teow
Stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns, eggs, bean sprouts, and chives, often cooked over intense heat for smoky flavor.
Penang Laksa (Asam Laksa)
A spicy-sour noodle soup with tangy fish broth, tamarind, mackerel, mint, and torch ginger.
Nasi Kandar
Steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, rooted in Indian-Muslim culinary traditions.
Penang Rojak
A fruit and vegetable salad tossed with sweet shrimp paste, peanuts, and crunchy crackers.
Cendol
A beloved dessert consisting of shaved ice, coconut milk, green jelly noodles, and sweet palm sugar syrup.
For travelers planning their journey, the route from Tokyo to Penang, while requiring a layover, is well-served by reputable airlines and world-class airports. Upon arrival, Penang offers a captivating blend of cultural discoveries and culinary adventures—the perfect reward at the end of your flight. Book your next trip quickly and conveniently with Traveloka for a seamless experience from start to finish.
Flight Duration | 10 hr(s) 10 mins |
Airport in Tokyo | |
Airport in Penang |
