American Express has officially opened its highly anticipated Centurion Lounge at Tokyo's Haneda Airport, marking the credit card giant's first premium lounge in Japan. This 7,500-square-foot sanctuary in Terminal 3 brings American Express's signature luxury experience to one of Asia's busiest travel hubs, complete with Japanese-inspired design, Michelin-starred dining, and stunning airfield views.

Quick Summary: The new Centurion Lounge at Tokyo Haneda (HND) opened in July 2025, offering American Express Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders a premium pre-flight experience featuring Japanese cuisine, cultural design elements, and exclusive amenities. Located in Terminal 3 near Gate 114, the lounge seats 122 guests and includes a dedicated VIP area for Centurion cardholders.

Related reading: American Express Announces Centurion Lounge Coming to Amsterdam in 2026

What Makes This Lounge Special

The Tokyo Haneda Centurion Lounge represents American Express's commitment to bringing authentic local experiences to its global network. Unlike cookie-cutter airport lounges, this space celebrates Japanese culture through every detail, from the deep indigo "Japan Blue" color scheme representing tranquility and stability to the carefully curated artwork by local artists.

According to American Express's official announcement, this lounge reflects the company's strategy to enhance premium travel experiences in high-demand destinations.

This marks American Express's 30th Centurion Lounge globally and their fourth location in Asia, joining existing outposts in Hong Kong, New Delhi, and Mumbai. The timing couldn't be better, as travel demand to Japan continues surging, particularly among millennials and Gen Z travelers drawn to the country's rich culture and currently favorable exchange rates.

American Express has been aggressively expanding its premium lounge network to compete with other exclusive offerings. For comprehensive coverage of all Centurion Lounge locations and access rules, check out our Ultimate Guide to The American Express Global Lounge Collection.

Location and Access Details

Where to Find It

The Centurion Lounge occupies a prime spot on the fourth floor of Haneda Airport's Terminal 3, the main international terminal, positioned near Gate 114. This location puts you in the heart of the international departure area with easy access to your gate while offering spectacular tarmac views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Terminal 3 serves: Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and most international carriers departing from Haneda.

Operating hours: While not officially confirmed, job postings suggest the lounge operates from approximately 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, though these hours may be adjusted during the initial opening period.

Who Can Access the Lounge

Getting into the Centurion Lounge requires one of these American Express cards:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Centurion Card from American Express (invite-only)
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card (when flying Delta that day)

Japanese-issued American Express cards with Centurion Lounge access privileges also provide entry, making this particularly valuable for frequent travelers to Japan.

Guest policies: International Centurion Lounges typically offer more generous guest policies than U.S. locations, though specific rules for Tokyo haven't been announced. Check the American Express lounge locator for the most current access rules and guest allowances.

For cardholders deciding between premium cards, our American Express® Gold Card Vs The Platinum Card® comparison breaks down which card offers the best lounge access benefits for your travel style.

Design and Cultural Elements

Japanese-Inspired Aesthetics

American Express partnered with local artists to create an authentic Japanese experience that goes beyond superficial touches. The signature element is the reimagined American Express bulldog transformed into a stunning textile piece by artist Saki Matsumoto, blending the brand's iconic symbol with traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

The "Japan Blue" theme runs throughout the space, a deep indigo hue chosen specifically to evoke the tranquility and stability associated with Japanese culture. This color palette creates a calming atmosphere perfect for pre-flight relaxation or productive work sessions.

Seating and Layout Options

Despite its compact 7,500-square-foot footprint, the lounge maximizes space efficiency with diverse seating arrangements:

• Individual armchairs for solo travelers seeking quiet relaxation
• High-top tables ideal for laptop work or casual dining
• Traditional dining tables perfect for enjoying the full culinary experience
• Comfortable couches for unwinding with family or colleagues
• Private family room equipped with a TV for groups traveling together

Exclusive VIP Experience

Centurion cardholders enjoy an elevated experience in a dedicated VIP room featuring exclusive design elements, a private beverage station, and most importantly, fast-track access to bypass any potential wait times. This premium-within-premium concept ensures the most exclusive American Express cardholders receive VIP treatment even within an already exclusive space.

Dining: A Michelin-Starred Experience

Chef Satoshi Ogino's Vision

American Express elevated the culinary program by partnering with chef Satoshi Ogino, known for managing several Michelin-starred restaurants including his own Akasaka Ogino. This collaboration ensures the food experience rivals top Tokyo restaurants rather than typical airport fare.

What to expect on the menu:

• Fresh sushi prepared by dedicated sushi chefs at a counter
• Authentic ramen representing Japan's beloved comfort food
• Seasonal Japanese specialties that change regularly to reflect local traditions
• Western cuisine options for varied tastes
• Traditional wagashi sweets paired with an extensive tea selection

Beverage Program

The lounge's bar program showcases both international and distinctly Japanese options:

• Premium wines and cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders
• Japanese beer selection featuring local breweries
• Sake varieties representing different regions and styles
• Shochu offerings for those wanting to explore Japan's national spirit
• Dedicated sweets bar with traditional teas and confections

The combination of a dedicated sushi counter and comprehensive Japanese beverage program sets this lounge apart from other international Centurion locations.

Amenities and Services

Work and Relaxation Spaces

The lounge caters to both business travelers and leisure seekers with thoughtfully designed spaces:

Private phone rooms double as meditation pods, perfect for important calls or finding zen before a long flight. In a culture that values mindfulness and respect for others, these quiet spaces reflect Japanese sensibilities about shared spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed tarmac views, ideal for aviation enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys watching the controlled chaos of a major international airport.

Technology and Connectivity

While specific technology amenities haven't been detailed, Centurion Lounges typically provide:

• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
• Charging stations throughout the seating areas
• Business center capabilities for printing and copying

What to Expect: Size Limitations and Crowds

The Reality of 122-Seat Capacity

At just 7,500 square feet with seating for 122 guests, this ranks among the smallest Centurion Lounges in the global network. For comparison, the upcoming Newark location will span 18,000 square feet, making Tokyo roughly 40% the size.

Expect crowds during:

• Peak departure times (typically 6-9 PM for long-haul flights to the Americas)
• Holiday periods and summer travel season
• Major Japanese holidays when domestic travelers also access the lounge

Managing Wait Times

American Express has built waitlist management into their mobile app, allowing you to check lounge capacity before heading to Terminal 3. This feature becomes crucial at smaller locations like Tokyo where space is limited.

Pro tip: Plan to arrive at the lounge during off-peak hours if possible, typically mid-morning or early afternoon when fewer long-haul flights are departing.

How Tokyo Compares to Other Asian Centurion Lounges

Hong Kong vs. Tokyo

The Hong Kong Centurion Lounge opened in 2017 as American Express's first purpose-built Asian location. While both offer local cultural elements, Tokyo's collaboration with a Michelin-starred chef and dedicated sushi counter creates a more authentic culinary experience.

Mumbai and New Delhi Context

American Express operates Centurion Lounges in both Mumbai and New Delhi, though these are renovated existing lounges rather than purpose-built spaces. Tokyo joins Hong Kong as only the second ground-up Centurion Lounge construction in Asia, ensuring modern amenities and optimal layout.

For cardholders without American Express premium cards, Priority Pass remains an excellent alternative for airport lounge access, though the experience won't match the premium Centurion offering. Our Ultimate Guide to Priority Pass Airport Lounge Membership provides comprehensive details on this widely-accepted program.

Maximizing Your Visit

Timing Your Arrival

Given the limited capacity, strategic timing makes all the difference:

Best times to visit:

• 8:00-10:00 AM (fewer departing flights)
• 2:00-4:00 PM (between lunch and dinner rushes)
• Late evening after 9:00 PM (fewer families with children)

Times to avoid:

• 6:00-8:00 PM (peak long-haul departure window)
• Sunday evenings (end of weekend travel)
• Major holiday periods

Making Reservations

While not confirmed, some international Centurion Lounges accept advance reservations. Check the American Express app or contact the lounge directly if you're planning a special occasion or traveling with a large group.

Exploring Terminal 3

Haneda Terminal 3 offers excellent shopping and dining even outside the lounge. If you encounter a wait, consider exploring the terminal's offerings, including traditional Japanese retail options and additional dining experiences.

Terminal 3 also features excellent duty-free shopping, making it a great place to pick up Japanese souvenirs or upgrade your travel gear. Consider investing in quality luggage if you're planning more international travel to take advantage of lounge benefits.

Travel Tips for Haneda Airport

Getting to Terminal 3

From Tokyo city center:

• Tokyo Monorail: Direct service from central Tokyo (20-30 minutes)
• Keikyu Line: Alternative rail option with frequent service
• Taxi/rideshare: 30-45 minutes depending on traffic and departure location

From Narita Airport: If you're connecting from Narita, budget 60-90 minutes for the journey to Haneda, including train transfers.

Pro tip: Consider booking through Expedia or Hotels.com for hotel stays near Haneda if you have an early morning flight and want to minimize travel time to the airport.

Check-in and Security Considerations

International flights from Haneda typically require arrival 2-3 hours before departure. Factor in potential lounge wait times when planning your airport arrival, especially during peak travel periods.

Before your Japan trip, consider reviewing your travel insurance coverage and ensuring you have appropriate international data plans for staying connected during your visit.

The Future of Centurion Lounges in Asia

This Tokyo opening signals American Express's continued commitment to Asian expansion. With travel demand to Japan reaching new heights and the country's appeal to younger travelers, this lounge positions American Express perfectly for continued growth in the region.

The success of this location could influence future Asian expansions, potentially including additional Japanese cities or other major Asian hubs where American Express sees growing cardholder demand.

Bottom Line

The new American Express Centurion Lounge at Tokyo Haneda Airport delivers an authentic Japanese experience that elevates airport dining and relaxation to new levels. While the 122-seat capacity means you'll want to plan strategically to avoid wait times, the Michelin-starred culinary program and cultural design elements make this a destination worthy of your American Express Platinum Card benefits.

For cardholders traveling through Tokyo, this lounge offers a compelling reason to choose Haneda over Narita when flight options allow. The combination of convenient city access, cultural authenticity, and premium amenities creates an experience that begins your Japanese adventure before you even leave the airport.

Planning a trip to Tokyo? The new Centurion Lounge adds significant value to your travel experience, especially when combined with the strong earning potential and travel benefits of The Platinum Card from American Express. To maximize your points earning for future Japan trips, review our guide to American Express Transfer Partners to understand how to get the most value from your Membership Rewards points.

Consider using Going.com to find the best flight deals to Tokyo, and book your accommodations through Booking.com to ensure you're getting competitive rates for your stay.

As American Express continues expanding its global lounge network, this Tokyo location sets a high bar for cultural integration and culinary excellence that future locations will aim to match. For the latest updates on American Express benefits and new lounge openings, bookmark our credit cards section to stay informed about opportunities to enhance your travel experience.