A complete guide to getting from Tokyo to Narita Airport—smoothly and stress-free.
🛫 Introduction
Narita Airport (NRT) is one of Japan’s two major international gateways and is located about 60 km east of central Tokyo. While it’s farther than Haneda, it’s still easily reachable—if you choose the right route.
Whether you’re staying in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station, or Ueno, there are multiple ways to reach Narita: express trains, airport buses, and taxis or private transfers. Some routes prioritize speed, others prioritize comfort, and others work best if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage.
In this guide, we’ll compare the best ways to get to Narita from Tokyo’s most popular areas, including travel times, prices, and tips for each method.
🚆 By Train (Fast and Reliable)
🔹 From Shinjuku
Route:
- Take the JR Yamanote Line or JR Chūō Line to Tokyo Station or Nippori Station
- Transfer to either:
– Narita Express (N’EX) from Tokyo Station
– Keisei Skyliner from Nippori Station
Total Time:
– N’EX: ~90–100 minutes
– Skyliner: ~70–80 minutes
Fare:
– N’EX: ~¥3,250
– Skyliner: ~¥2,570
Tip: N’EX is covered by the JR Pass; Skyliner is faster but not covered.
🔹 From Shibuya
Route:
- JR Yamanote Line → Tokyo Station → Narita Express
- Or, JR Yamanote Line → Nippori Station → Keisei Skyliner
Time: ~80–100 minutes
Fare: Similar to above
Tip: If you’re in a hurry, the Skyliner route via Nippori is typically faster.
🔹 From Tokyo Station
Route:
– Direct Narita Express (N’EX) trains available from Tokyo Station
Time: ~60 minutes
Fare: ~¥3,250
Tip: Great for travelers arriving from other cities by Shinkansen
🔹 From Ueno
Route:
– Take the Keisei Skyliner from Keisei Ueno Station
Time: ~41 minutes (fastest option from Tokyo!)
Fare: ~¥2,570
Tip: Best choice for fast, reliable travel to Narita
🚌 By Limousine Bus (Best for Luggage)
🔹 From Shinjuku
– Buses depart from major hotels and Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
– ⏱️ ~90–120 minutes (depending on traffic)
– 💴 ~¥3,200
– ✅ Comfortable seating and direct service
🔹 From Shibuya
– Departures from Shibuya Station area and hotels
– ⏱️ ~90–110 minutes
– 💴 ~¥3,200
– ✅ Luggage-friendly, direct
🔹 From Tokyo Station
– Buses from Yaesu South Exit or nearby hotels
– ⏱️ ~70–90 minutes
– 💴 ~¥2,800–¥3,100
– ✅ Convenient for travelers with suitcases or kids
🔹 From Ueno
– Limited buses from some hotels or via Tokyo City Air Terminal (TCAT)
– ⏱️ ~80–100 minutes
– 💴 ~¥3,000
– ✅ Reserve seats in advance during holidays
🚕 By Taxi or Private Transfer (Most Expensive)
🔹 From Shinjuku / Shibuya / Tokyo Station / Ueno
– ⏱️ ~60–90 minutes
– 💴 ¥20,000–¥30,000+
– ✅ Good for groups, late-night flights, or lots of luggage
Tip:
– Flat-rate airport taxis are available from central Tokyo areas
– Consider pre-booking with apps like GO, S.RIDE, or private van services
🧳 Conclusion: Plan Your Route to Narita with Confidence
Narita Airport may be far from central Tokyo, but getting there doesn’t have to be complicated. With reliable trains like the Skyliner and Narita Express, convenient limousine buses, and flexible taxi options, you can choose the route that best suits your location, budget, luggage, and schedule.
✅ Skyliner: fastest from Ueno or Nippori
✅ Narita Express (N’EX): best from Tokyo Station, covered by JR Pass
✅ Limousine Bus: great for big bags and hotel pickups
✅ Taxi: ideal for comfort, groups, or early/late flights
Whatever you choose, plan ahead, check live schedules, and give yourself extra time—especially during rush hour or holidays. Safe travels!
