Narita International Airport (NRT) is located about 60 kilometers east of central Tokyo. Travelers have several convenient options to reach the city, depending on their budget, destination, and travel style. Here is a simple guide to help you choose the best way to get into Tokyo.
| Priority | Best Option | Time | Cost | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fastest | Narita Express | ~60 min | ¥3,000 | First-time visitors |
| Cheapest | Local Train | 90–120 min | ~¥1,200 | Budget travelers |
| Easiest | Airport Limousine Bus | 75–120 min | ~¥3,200 | Families / luggage |
| Best Value | Keisei Skyliner | ~45 min | ~¥2,600 | Solo travelers |
The route from the arrival lobby of Terminal 2 to the train
After exiting customs, you will enter the arrival lobby.Look for large signs showing letters A or B.This is your first landmark.
Follow the black sign that says “Train“.Do not follow “Domestic Flights”.
After going down the escalator, you will enter a large open hall.Look for a black sign that says “Train” with a train icon.
This is what the sign looks like in real life.
You will see multiple railway logos:
- JR (Local Train)
- NEX
- KS (Keisei Line / Skyliner)
If you see these signs, you are in the correct place.
Guide from Haneda Airport to Tokyo
🚄 Fastest Route: Narita Express
Taking the Narita Express will get you to Tokyo Station in just two stops from Terminal 2.The JR Narita/Sobu Line（Local Train） is cheaper, but it takes 16 stops to reach Tokyo Station.
If you are visiting Japan for the first time, this is the safest and easiest option.
- To: Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, Ikebukuro, Yokohama
- Time: About 60 minutes to Tokyo Station
- Price: Around ¥3,000
- Features: Reserved seats, luggage space, comfortable ride
The Narita Express is the most convenient option for travelers heading to major stations in Tokyo. It is fast, smooth, and easy to use even with large luggage.
Keisei Skyliner
The entrance for the Keisei Skyliner and the Keisei Line is the same; board the Skyliner from the left side.
- To: Nippori and Ueno
- Time: About 36 minutes to Nippori
- Price: Around ¥2,600
- Features: One of the fastest options, reserved seating
This is the quickest train from Narita to northern Tokyo. It is perfect for visitors staying in Ueno, Asakusa, or Akihabara areas. - Recommended only if
- You travel light
- You are comfortable navigating train systems
💰 Cheapest Route:Keisei Access Express (Regular Train)
The entrance for the Keisei Skyliner and Keisei Line is the same; proceed straight ahead for the Keisei Line.
Passengers heading toward Tokyo should board the Keisei Ueno-bound train from Platform 3. Please be careful not to board the opposite Narita Airport-bound train.
- To: Asakusa, Higashi-Ginza, Nihonbashi, Shinagawa
- Time: 60–70 minutes
- Price: Around ¥1,300
- Features: Affordable, no seat reservation
A good budget-friendly choice. The route connects directly to popular sightseeing areas, but trains can be crowded during rush hours.
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Tip: Most travelers use IC cards to ride trains in Tokyo. Learn how the Welcome Suica works.
🧳 Easiest Route:Airport Limousine Bus
The limousine bus ticket counter is located on the same floor as the arrival lobby.
The train bound for Tokyo Station departs from Platform 6. Information on other destinations will be provided when purchasing your ticket.
- To: Major hotels and districts such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Roppongi, Ginza
- Time: 60–90 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Price: Around ¥3,200
- Features: Comfortable, direct to many hotels
This is ideal if you prefer not to carry luggage through train stations. Buses stop at many hotels and tourist spots in Tokyo.
Taxi / Fixed-fare Taxi
The taxi stand is located in the arrival lobby, just like the bus stop. However, since the taxi stand is on the street one block away from the building exit, go up one floor and proceed through the connecting passageway to reach the taxi stand.
- Time: 60–90 minutes
- Price: Around ¥25,000–¥30,000
A convenient door-to-door option, especially for families, late-night arrivals, or travelers with many bags. Fixed-fare taxis are available for central Tokyo.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Fastest: Keisei Skyliner
- Most convenient for major stations: Narita Express
- Best for budget travelers: Keisei Access Express
- Most comfortable with luggage: Limousine Bus
- Door-to-door service: Taxi
🚨 Common Mistakes First-Time Visitors Make
Avoid these:
- Taking local trains during rush hour
- Not reserving seats on express trains
- Choosing the cheapest route with heavy luggage
- Not checking last train time
🕐 Last Train from Narita Airport
Most trains stop around 23:00.
If you land late:
- Take airport bus
- Stay at airport hotel
FAQ
Q. What is the cheapest way from Narita Airport to Tokyo?
A. The cheapest way is the Keisei local train, costing about ¥1,200.
Q. Is Narita Express worth it?
A. Yes. It is the easiest and most comfortable option, especially for first-time visitors.
Q. Can I use JR Pass from Narita Airport?
A. Yes. Narita Express is fully covered.
Q. How far is Narita Airport from Tokyo?
A. About 60–70 km (40 miles).
Q. Is Uber available from Narita Airport?
A. Yes, but it is expensive (¥25,000+).
If this is your first trip to Tokyo, please read this as well.
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