Narita International Airport (NRT) is located in the adjacent prefecture of Chiba, approximately 60 kilometers from Tokyo Station. As the primary gateway for international arrivals, the airport is well-connected to central Tokyo via a variety of high-speed trains, buses, and private transfers.
Train
There are two primary express trains—the Narita Express (N’EX) and the Keisei Skyliner—as well as ordinary local lines. The express services offer the most comfort and speed, while local lines provide a more budget-friendly alternative.
Narita Express (N’EX)
The Narita Express whisks you direct to Tokyo Station in just under an hour. The train also serves major hubs including Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. A one-way ticket to Tokyo Station costs approximately ÂĄ3,070. However, for international travelers, the N’EX TOKYO Round Trip Ticket is the best value at ÂĄ5,200, covering the return journey within a 14-day period.
All seats on the N’EX are reserved. You can purchase tickets at JR ticket machines or service centers at the airport. Carriages are equipped with large luggage racks with dial locks and multi-lingual displays. Note that the train does not spend long at each station, so it is advisable to have your bags ready before the train comes to a stop.
Keisei Skyliner
The Keisei Skyliner is the fastest option for those heading to northern Tokyo, reaching Nippori Station in just 36 minutes and Ueno Station shortly after. A one-way ticket costs ÂĄ2,570. If you are heading to Tokyo Station, you will need to change at Nippori to the JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Line. The Skyliner offers a smooth, high-speed ride with assigned seating and ample luggage space.
Keisei and JR Local Lines
For budget-conscious travelers, the Keisei Access Express and Keisei Main Line offer transit to Tokyo for approximately ÂĄ1,100 to ÂĄ1,400. These are commuter-style trains without reserved seating or dedicated luggage racks. The journey to central Tokyo typically takes around 75 to 90 minutes and may involve a transfer at Nippori or Aoto depending on your final destination.
Bus
There are two primary bus services: the low-cost Airport Bus TYO-NRT and the premium Airport Limousine.
Airport Bus TYO-NRT
This is the most economical choice, with a flat fare of ÂĄ1,300 for adults (late-night services are ÂĄ2,600). The bus runs frequently between Narita Airport and Tokyo Station or Ginza Station. While you cannot pre-book specific seats for all departures, tickets can be purchased at the airport bus counters upon arrival.
Airport Limousine
The Airport Limousine is a more luxurious service that drops passengers off directly at many major hotels and transport hubs throughout the capital. This is an excellent option for those with heavy luggage who wish to avoid navigating train stations. Fares typically range from ÂĄ3,200 to ÂĄ3,600 one-way. It is highly recommended to check if your specific hotel is a designated stop.
Taxi
A taxi from Narita Airport to central Tokyo is the most expensive option, typically costing between ÂĄ25,000 and ÂĄ35,000 including highway tolls. Most taxi companies offer fixed-fare (flat-rate) services to specific zones within Tokyo, which can be arranged at the taxi stands outside the terminal. The journey usually takes between 60 and 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
