Tokyo has two major airports: Narita International Airport and Haneda Airport. Narita, located about 60 km from central Tokyo, primarily handles international flights and is a hub for long-haul travelers. Haneda, closer to the city center, serves both domestic and international flights and is known for its convenience for Tokyo access. Narita Airport is renowned for its excellent international connections, extensive duty-free shopping, and diverse dining options. Narita Airport offers several convenient options for travelers to access downtown Tokyo. These range from high-speed trains to buses, taxis, and car rentals. Each option varies in travel time, cost, and comfort, catering to different preferences. Here are eight primary ways to get from Narita Airport to downtown Tokyo.
1. Narita Express (N’EX)
The Narita Express, operated by JR East, is a fast and comfortable option to reach central Tokyo. It provides direct service to major stations like Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ikebukuro.
Time Required: About 50-60 minutes to Tokyo Station, slightly longer to other destinations (up to 90 minutes).
Cost: ¥3,070 (one-way) to Tokyo Station in standard class; discounts may apply for round-trip tickets or special passes for tourists.
Pros: Comfortable seats, ample luggage space, direct service to major stations, reserved seating.
Cons: Expensive compared to other train options.
2. Keisei Skyliner
The Keisei Skyliner is a high-speed train offering one of the fastest routes to central Tokyo, specifically to Ueno and Nippori stations.
Time Required: 41 minutes to Nippori, slightly longer to Ueno.
Cost: ¥2,520 (one-way).
Pros: The fastest train service to central Tokyo, comfortable seating, reserved seats.
Cons: Limited to Ueno and Nippori, requiring transfers if heading to other parts of Tokyo.
3. Keisei Access Express
The Keisei Access Express offers a more budget-friendly option than the Skyliner, providing direct access to various parts of Tokyo, including Asakusa, Oshiage (Skytree), and Nihombashi, without the need to transfer.
Time Required: About 65 minutes to Asakusa, 80 minutes to Nihombashi.
Cost: ¥1,340 (one-way) to Asakusa.
Pros: Inexpensive, no need to transfer.
Cons: Slower than the Skyliner, no reserved seating.
4. JR Sobu Line (Rapid Service)
The JR Sobu Line is a regular train service that connects Narita Airport to Tokyo Station and other key stations without the premium pricing of express services.
Time Required: About 90 minutes to Tokyo Station.
Cost: ¥1,320 (one-way).
Pros: Cheapest direct train to Tokyo, widely available.
Cons: Slower than other options, fewer amenities.
5. Airport Limousine Bus
The Airport Limousine Bus offers a comfortable bus service with multiple routes to major hotels, stations, and landmarks across Tokyo. It’s a great option for those carrying lots of luggage, as buses have plenty of storage space.
Time Required: 60-120 minutes, depending on traffic and destination.
Cost: ¥3,500 (one-way) to major hotels in central Tokyo.
Pros: Direct service to hotels and landmarks, luggage is taken care of.
Cons: Longer travel time due to traffic, especially during peak hours.
6. Tokyo Shuttle Bus
The Tokyo Shuttle is a budget-friendly bus service that runs between Narita Airport and Tokyo Station. This is one of the most economical options for travelers seeking a balance between cost and convenience.
Time Required: About 65-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost: ¥1,300 (¥1,000 if booked online in advance).
Pros: Inexpensive, convenient for reaching Tokyo Station.
Cons: Potential delays due to traffic, limited luggage space.
7. Access Narita Bus
Similar to the Tokyo Shuttle, the Access Narita Bus is a low-cost bus service connecting Narita Airport to Tokyo Station and Ginza.
Time Required: About 70-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost: ¥1,000 (one-way).
Pros: Inexpensive, reliable for budget-conscious travelers.
Cons: Travel time can be affected by traffic, no guaranteed seating.
8. Taxi or Private Car
Taking a taxi or hiring a private car service is the most expensive option, but it offers the greatest convenience, especially for those with heavy luggage or traveling in groups. Taxis are readily available at Narita, and some services offer fixed-rate fares to central Tokyo.
Time Required: 60-90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost: Around ¥20,000-¥30,000 (one-way); fixed-rate options are available.
Pros: Door-to-door service, no need to worry about luggage.
Cons: Very expensive, travel time can vary depending on traffic.
Summary of Options:
| Mode |
Time (Approx.) |
Cost (One-way) |
Best For |
| Narita Express |
50-60 min |
¥3,070 |
Travelers seeking comfort and direct access. |
| Keisei Skyliner |
41 min |
¥2,520 |
The fastest option to Ueno or Nippori. |
| Keisei Access Exp. |
65-80 min |
¥1,340 |
Budget-conscious travelers needing direct routes. |
| JR Sobu Line |
90 min |
¥1,320 |
Cheapest train, though slower. |
| Limousine Bus |
60-120 min |
¥3,500 |
Direct service to hotels, comfortable travel. |
| Tokyo Shuttle Bus |
65-90 min |
¥1,000-¥1,300 |
Budget travelers heading to Tokyo Station. |
| Access Narita Bus |
70-90 min |
¥1,000 |
Budget travelers needing to reach Ginza or Tokyo. |
| Taxi/Private Car |
60-90 min |
¥20,000-¥30,000 |
Groups or those with heavy luggage. |
These options cater to a variety of needs, whether you prioritize speed, cost, or convenience. Trains like the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner offer speed and comfort, while buses like the Tokyo Shuttle are ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Taxis provide the highest convenience but come with a steep price tag. Depending on your schedule, budget, and preferences, you can choose the best method to navigate from Narita Airport to downtown Tokyo.
