The Easiest Ways to Go from Narita Airport to Tokyo
If you are a frequent traveller, flying to Japan’s Narita International Airport is simple enough. All you have to do is have your boarding pass, luggage, and passport on you and buckle the seatbelt. But, the real struggle begins when you land. It can get really confusing to get a grasp of transportation in a whole new city, especially if the language is a barrier for you or if you are a first-time visitor.
Fret not. We are here to assist you with the matter.
Narita is one of the two major airports serving Japan’s capital, Tokyo. Handling a large number of domestic and international flights, Narita Airport is well-connected with Tokyo and other nearby cities. The airport is located about 80 kilometres away from central Tokyo with an array of transportation options for you to avail. Depending on your budget, convenience, time, and group size, you can pick from trains, buses, local taxis, and even private transfers.
This article thoroughly explains how to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo using any or all of these options.
Fastest Option: How to Get from Narita Airport to Tokyo by Train
The quickest way to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo is via train. There are two operators offering trains from the airport to the city - Japan Rail East and Keisei Electric Railway. You can board the trains from the stations in Terminals 1, 2, and 3 of Narita Airport. There are signs to lead you to the platforms and ticket counters, but it would be far more convenient if you have pre-purchased online passes.
Take a look at your fastest options for getting from Narita International Airport to Tokyo Station:
Narita Express (N'EX)
The Narita Express, shortened to N’EX, a limited JR East express train is your easiest way to travel from the airport to Tokyo and other nearby wards since some trains continue to Shibuya and Shinjuku as well.
While it takes under an hour to reach Tokyo Station from Narita Airport, getting to Shibuya Station and Shinjuku Station takes a little longer.
Narita Airport to Tokyo Station: 53 mins
Narita Airport to Shibuya Station: 1 hr 15 mins
Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station: 1 hr 25 mins
Stay updated with the following N’EX timetable for your convenience. Keep in mind that the timings of Narita Express to Tokyo Station are subject to change and are best confirmed with the station authorities at the time of travel.
Train Line | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
Narita Express (N'EX) | 6:52am (Terminal 1) | 11:42pm (Terminal 1) |
Narita Express (N'EX) | 6:55am (Terminal 2) | 11:44pm (Terminal 2-3) |
Note:
a) All trains stop at both terminals.
b) Not all trains go to Shibuya or Shinjuku. Check Narita Express' Shinjuku and Shibuya timetables before booking.
The one-way trip from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station costs around SGD 30. You can buy tickets at the ticket counters at the stations.
However, if you plan on travelling exclusively via train, we recommend you get yourself a JR Pass for 7, 14, or 21 days depending on how long your trip is.
Prices can slightly vary depending on whether you are choosing Green cars (first class) or Ordinary cars (economy). On your way back home, you can choose the same train from Tokyo Station to Narita Airport for the easiest access.
Keisei-Narita Skyliner
If you’re looking for a speedy but also luxurious ride to central Tokyo from Narita Airport, this is it. Keisei-Narita Skyliner will take you to Nippori Station in about 36 minutes and Ueno Station in 41 minutes. From both stations, you can travel to the JR Yamanote line or JR Keihin-Togoku Line to get to Tokyo in another ten minutes.
From Ueno Station, you can also access the Ginza and Hibiya subway lines for the same. Your total traveling time will be around an hour. You can avail of this train to travel from Tokyo’s Narita Airport to Haneda Airport as well if you have a second flight onward.
Train Line | First Train | Last Train |
|---|---|---|
Keisei-Ueno (Skyliner) | 7:23am (Terminal 1) 7:27am (Terminal 2-3) | 11pm (Terminal 1) 11:03pm (Terminal 2-3) |
Haneda Airport Terminal 1-2 | 7:44am (Terminal 1) 7:47pm (Terminal 2-3) | 5:25pm (Terminal 1) 5:28pm (Terminal 2-3) |
One of the best things about the Keisei-Narita Tokyo Skyliner is that it is a dedicated train for airport commutes, which means you don’t have to face the everyday work-going crowd and can travel without any stoppages, in comfort. There is a single class of reserved seats with an exciting view of the suburbs as you enter Tokyo. When it comes to Skyliner vs Narita Express, the former wins in terms of convenience and comfort, and the latter comes first for accessibility.
With separate luggage storage and free Wi-Fi, it is one of the most cosy airport transfer options despite being a form of public transport. Tickets cost around SGD 22-25 for a one-way trip.
Local Trains
If you’re travelling with a tighter budget, fear not. There are economical options as well, such as the local trains. However, you would have to make peace with longer travel times, no reserved seats, rush-hour crowds, and multiple transfers.
We recommend you avoid taking local trains if you are in a rush or have a lot of luggage with you. But if you’re a backpacker with a low-cost plan and want to explore Tokyo like a local, this is perfect for you. Following are the local trains you can use to reach Tokyo along with other details like transfer station, cost, and travel time.
Train Line | Destination/ Transfer Station | Cost (Approx.) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
JR Sobu Line (Rapid Service) | Tokyo Station | SGD 12 | 85 minutes |
Keisei Limited Express (For Tokyo, Shibuya, and Shinjuku) | Nippori Station (JR Yamanote Line forward) | SGD 11 | 90 mins + transfer time |
Keisei Narita SkyAccess Express | Toei Asakusa Subway (Take trains to Asakusa, Nihonbashi, or Shinbashi) | SGD 12 | 60 mins + transfer time |
Keisei Access Express | Ueno Station (JR Yamanote Line forward) | SGD 14 | 90 mins + transfer time |
Keisei Rapid Limited Express | Ueno Station (JR Yamanote Line forward) | SGD 10 | 90 mins + transfer time |
Convenient Option: How to Get from Narita Airport to Tokyo by Bus
If you don’t want to go through the trouble of train travel but would still like a reasonable mode of transport, buses are your best bet to reach Tokyo and neighbouring prefectures. A bus will not be as fast as taking an express train from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station, but you will be able to travel hassle-free and in comfort.
Depending on traffic conditions, it takes around 1.5 hours to reach via bus from Narita to Tokyo. If you want to keep the cost low, go for the regular bus services offering one-way trips from the airport at around SGD 12-14. However, for a more comfortable journey, opt for the limousine buses.
Tokyo-Narita Shuttle Buses
The Tokyo Shuttle Bus - also known as the Airport Bus Tokyo-Narita - takes a little over an hour and costs SGD 12 for adults and SGD 6 for kids. Early-morning and late-night tickets cost a bit higher. It also comes with a luggage restriction - only one suitcase is allowed per passenger.
While this bus cannot be booked in advance, there is another shuttle service between Narita Airport and Tokyo which can be booked 24 hours prior. It costs SGD 14 online and SGD 17 at the site, making it the cheapest bus to the west side of Tokyo. You will be dropped off at Ikebukuro Station in about 80 minutes.
Tokyo-Narita Airport Limousine Buses
Departing every hour, a Tokyo Narita Airport limousine bus comes with cosy seating, enough leg space, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, charging ports, and dedicated luggage storage. You are permitted to carry two family-sized suitcases, weighing 30 kg each, per passenger.
Moreover, if you are staying in any major hotel in Tokyo - including Disney Resort and other top accommodations in Shibuya or Shinjuku - the buses will drop you right at the doorstep. One-way bus to Narita Airport from Tokyo or back costs around SGD 30, while return tickets (valid for 14 days) come at SGD 40. They leave every hour from the airport.
Comfortable Option: Private Transfers, Taxis, and Car Rentals
While trains and buses are easier on the pocket, there is nothing quite as easy and comfortable as travelling in a four-wheeler.
While private transfers, taxis, and rentals cost more than trains or buses, it is a value-for-money option if you are travelling with family or a large group, especially if there are kids or elderly people with you. You get picked up from the airport without any trouble, have the entire vehicle to yourself, make a stop wherever you want, and get dropped off right at your destination - it is like a dream journey after spending hours on the flight. On top of that, there will be zero restrictions on how much luggage you can carry.
Private Transfers
Private airport transfers are a smooth and hassle-free option where you simply get picked up at the airport and dropped off at your hotel without any inconvenience. Choose bigger cars or SUVs, like the Toyota Alphard limousine, if you are traveling in a group of five or more with heavy luggage.
These vehicles are spacious enough for you to even enjoy a quick nap on your way to the airport. You can even expect drivers with a good grasp of English, which helps make communication easier. Depending on traffic conditions, it’ll take you 1.5 hours to reach Narita Airport in a private transfer. The ride will cost you around SGD 130-180 from central Tokyo.
Local Taxis
Local taxis, while available round the clock, are an expensive option unless you have people to share the cost. If you are traveling solo or as a couple, it is not the best choice for you. It will cost you around SGD 225-270 per vehicle if you are booking individually. However, if you are sharing with four or more people, it could come down to JPY 7,000 per person. It is still costlier than train, bus, or even a pre-booked private transfer.
Moreover, there are often surcharges applied by the taxis between 10pm and 5am. There could also be a significant language barrier, as most local taxi drivers do not speak English. If you must take a taxi, make sure you have your destination written in Japanese or have someone with you who speaks the language.
Car Rentals
Don’t want to go down the conventional way and take a road trip around Tokyo? Car rentals are your answer. Book yourself a car for all the days of your visit, starting from only SGD 45 a day. Travel at your own pace, visit the offbeat locations, and enjoy a vacation worth remembering. The person driving the car should have their International Driving Permit with them. Pelago offers car rentals with easy pick-up not only at Narita Airport but also at Haneda Airport and Tokyo Station.
Pelago offers car rentals with easy pick-up not only at Narita Airport but also at Haneda Airport and Tokyo Station.
Tokyo Trip Made Easy: Convenience at Your Fingertip
Here are some bonus tips for you to make your visit to Tokyo, Japan even more enjoyable.
Same-day Luggage Delivery Service
Need your luggage transported from the airport to your hotel or vice-versa while you go sightseeing? Pelago has got you covered. Use our same-day luggage delivery and travel without the worry of dragging around heavy bags with you.
Tokyo Disneyland One-Day Pass
Gift your family a memorable day with an all-access one-day pass from Narita Airport to Tokyo Disneyland. It will grant you entry to all of the seven themed lands in the amusement park, as well as all seasonal attractions.
All’s Well That Starts Well
While traveling is all about adventure, there are often other factors to keep in mind such as budget and convenience. When it comes to airport transfers, pick the option most suitable for you without compromising either. A zero-trouble journey from Narita Airport to your hotel would be a great way to start the rest of the trip.
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I get from Narita Airport to Tokyo City Center?
While there is no Narita to Tokyo bullet train, you can take the Narita Express or Keisei-Narita Skyliner as the second fastest option. Pre-booked transfers, limousine buses, or taxis from Narita to Tokyo are also available.
How much is the train from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
The Narita to Tokyo trains cost around SGD 8-14 if you go local. Tickets for the Tokyo Skyliner or NE’X can cost around SGD 22-26.
Is Narita Express worth it?
Being the quickest way of getting from Narita to Tokyo, the Narita Express is totally worth your money. Reserved seating ensures comfort and convenience while offering great views of the Tokyo prefectures all around. Comparing Skyliner vs. Narita Express, the latter wins if you want to travel directly to Tokyo and beyond from Narita Airport to Shinjuku or Shibuya.
How much is a taxi from Narita to Tokyo?
Taxi fare from Narita to Tokyo is SGD 270 on average, but you can be charged more. There is a 20% surcharge between 10pm and 5am.
Is there a Shinkansen from Narita to Tokyo?
No, there is no direct Shinkansen or bullet train from Narita to Tokyo.
How to get from Haneda Airport to Narita Airport?
You can take the Keisei-Narita Skyliner or private airport transfers to reach Narita Airport from Haneda Airport.