Originally Posted by
jib71
Ignore the dire warnings about rush hour. Central Tokyo is quiet at 7:00 AM on weekdays, and deathly quiet at that time on weekends.
To reach Shiodome from Haneda, take a Keikyu line train that connects to the Asakusa line. Get off at Shimbashi (A10). From there, you can walk to Shiodome in 5-10 minutes, but in your case I recommend taking a cab since you're unfamiliar with the area and you have a toddler and luggage in tow.
Note - On the Keikyu platform at Haneda airport, you will see trains for various destinations - You want a train that will go via the Asakusa line. That means a train that's heading in the direction of Narita, Inba medical university, or Inzai Makinohara. If you're unsure, just ask a member of staff for the train to Shimbashi. If you miss one, there will be another shortly after. (Don't be persuaded to take a train that's going "in the right direction" but stopping short of Shimbashi).
You are virtually guaranteed a seat because the train starts at the airport.
That’s very encouraging news! I feel more assured about navigating the transit system when it’s less crowded. Thank you also for the detailed tips. I’m not so sure about going directly to the hotel from Haneda since I have so much time to spare before check in. I plan to ship my luggage ahead to the hotel so I have less to deal with during transit.