Narita Airport to Tokyo Japan: Transport Guide
Are you arriving at Narita Airport? How to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo, Japan?
Well, before you get overwhelmed by all the travel options to Tokyo, read this guide! I’ve flown to Narita Airport several times, so I know a thing or two.
Narita Airport to Tokyo: Overview
Narita Airport is located in Chiba, about 70km from central Tokyo, Japan. Here are 4 main options.
| Transport | Ticket Price | Travel Time | Frequency | Schedule | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keisei Skyliner | ¥2,570 (¥2,300 online) | 45 mins | Every 20 – 30 mins | 07:23 – 23:00 | Non-stop to Ueno. Connects to Nippori for JR lines. Spacious seating. |
| Narita Express (N’EX) | ¥3070 (ordinary seat) | 53 mins | Every 30 mins | 07:45 – 21:44 | Direct route to major Tokyo stations. Comfortable and fast. |
| Limousine Bus | ¥3,600 | 60-90 mins (depends on traffic) | Varies (check online) | 07:00 – 23:00 | Stops at major hotels and certain Tokyo stations. Convenient for those with lots of luggage or heading to specific hotels. |
| Private transfer/ Taxi | From ¥26,000 | 60 mins |
Option 1: Keisei Skyliner, JR Yamanote Line
If you’re aiming for a smooth and swift transition from Narita Airport to Tokyo, the Keisei Skyliner should be on your list.
It’s a reliable choice I’ve taken several times when in a hurry to get downtown.
This train travels between Narita Airport, Nippori, and the busy Keisei-Ueno Station.
So, if Ueno is your final destination or if you have plans nearby, Keisei Skyliner is your best bet.
Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes
Prices: ¥2,570 onsite and ¥2,300 online.
Schedule: Every 20–30 minutes from 7:23 am to 11 pm. Always check the departure schedules in advance, especially if you’re catching an early morning or late-night train.
Where to buy tickets: It’s cheaper to buy Keisei Skyliner online.
How to redeem online tickets: You can easily redeem the paper ticket at the Skyliner ticket office on B2. If you depart from Ueno station, you can redeem via the Ticket Vending Machine. Your ticket will have your seat number clearly indicated.
Services: The seat was comfy and spacious.
Tips: If you’re branching out from Tokyo, remember the Skyliner also connects to Nippori Station, which is great for the JR lines. Keep your ticket handy—you’ll need it when boarding and when leaving the station.
Read more: Train travel in Japan.
Option 2: Narita Express (N’EX)
Narita Express is a reliable and fast way to get to Tokyo from Narita Airport.
It connects major cities and districts, including Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Yokohama, so changing trains is stress-free!
Connecting Narita Airport to Tokyo, this train has plush interiors and offers breathtaking views of the Japanese landscape.
Travel time: 53 minutes.
Prices: One-way ticket price is ¥3,070 for standard seats, and ¥5,340 for Green Car (first class). You can also get a round-trip ticket for ¥5,000 (14-day validity period).
Schedule: Every hour, with the first train at 7:40 am and the last at 9:44 pm.
Where to buy tickets: Look for the “JR Line Ticket Gate” signs in the B1 basements of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Tips: If you have a JR Pass, this train is a must! Also, book your seats in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as it fills up quite fast.
Narita Limited Express ticket prices
| Destination | Ordinary Car | Green Car |
|---|---|---|
| Tokyo | 3,070 yen | 5,340 yen |
| Shinagawa Shibuya Shinjuku | 3,250 yen | 5,520 yen |
| Yokohama | 4,370 yen | 6,640 yen |
| Ofuna | 4,700 yen | 6,970 yen |
Option 3: Narita Airport to Tokyo Limousine Bus
Imagine hopping onto a comfy bus after a tiring flight, not having to worry about transfers or navigating train lines. That’s precisely what you get with the Limousine Bus.
Now for some perks: onboard, there are power sockets (lifesaver!) and even a toilet. And yes, you can munch on your snacks while you ride.
On my last trip, the Limousine Bus was spotless, right on time, and the driver? A total pro. He handled my luggage like it was feather-light.
Honestly, if you’re traveling with tons of bags, this bus is a game-changer.
Travel time: Your ride will typically be 60 to 90 minutes. Traffic in Tokyo can be unpredictable, so grab a snack, sit back, and enjoy the city views.
Prices: It’s about ¥3,600 for a one-way ticket. Might be a tad more than a train ticket, but hey, for that direct, no-hassle route? Totally worth it.
Schedule: Buses run from as early as 07:00 till the night at 23:00. Though I always advise a quick online check for the exact timings.
Where to buy tickets: I recommend buying your tickets online. You can redeem your ticket at the Limousine Bus counter in the arrivals area. The staff are super helpful, and exchanging tickets is a breeze.
Tips:
- Lots of major hotels in Tokyo are directly on this bus route. That means no lugging around those heavy bags for long. You can check the station list here.
- Hold onto your ticket; you’ll need it when getting off.
- If you’ve got tight plans after arriving, maybe factor in a little buffer time. Traffic can be a tad bit unpredictable.
Option 4: Narita Airport to Tokyo taxi
If budget isn’t an issue and you’re after a direct, door-to-door service after a tiring flight, taxis are your best bet. You can also get a private airport transfer too.
Travel time:
Depending on traffic, the ride can take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Remember, Tokyo is known for its bustling streets, so plan accordingly.
Prices:
A taxi ride from Narita to central Tokyo can cost anywhere from ¥25,000 to ¥35,000. That’s a bit steep, especially compared to trains or buses. However, if you’re traveling with a group or have a ton of luggage, splitting the fare might make this a viable option.
Where to Find a Taxi:
You won’t have to search far. Taxi stands are conveniently located right outside the airport terminals. The queue system is organized, and staff members are often present to assist passengers and manage the flow.
Tips:
- If you’re concerned about the fare, consider fixed-rate taxis. Many companies offer a set fare for the journey from Narita to Tokyo, so you know exactly what you’re paying upfront.
- While many taxi drivers in Tokyo speak some English, it’s always a good idea to have your destination written in Japanese or to use a map on your phone to ensure smooth communication.
