Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT)

Narita Airport Transport

Tokyo Narita Airport Transport Guide (NRT)

Tokyo Narita International Airport is located approximately 60 km east of central Tokyo and is one of Japan’s main international gateways. Despite the distance, Narita Airport is exceptionally well connected to Tokyo and surrounding regions through high-speed trains, airport buses, taxis, private transfers and car rental services.

For most travelers, the fastest and most convenient options to central Tokyo are the Narita Express (N’EX) and the Keisei Skyliner.

Best Transport Options from Narita Airport

Transport Travel Time to Tokyo Approx. Price Best For
Narita Express (N’EX) 55-70 min ¥3,000-¥3,500 Comfort & direct access
Keisei Skyliner 36-45 min ¥2,500-¥2,800 Fastest train option
Airport Limousine Bus 70-120 min ¥1,300-¥3,600 Hotels & luggage comfort
Taxi 60-120 min ¥20,000-¥35,000 Families & convenience
Car Rental Variable From ¥7,000/day Road trips across Japan

Narita Express (N’EX)

The Narita Express is one of the most popular ways to travel between Narita Airport and central Tokyo. Operated by JR East, it provides direct connections to major stations such as Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Yokohama.

  • Direct access to central Tokyo
  • Comfortable reserved seating
  • Large luggage areas available
  • Excellent option for first-time visitors

Traveler Tip: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, Narita Express is included at no additional cost.

Keisei Skyliner

The Keisei Skyliner is the fastest rail connection between Narita Airport and Tokyo. It connects Narita with Nippori and Ueno stations in approximately 40 minutes.

  • Fastest airport train in Japan
  • Ideal for travelers staying near Ueno or Asakusa
  • Modern trains with reserved seating
  • Frequent departures throughout the day

Airport Limousine Buses

Airport Limousine Buses connect Narita Airport with major Tokyo hotels, districts and transportation hubs. They are especially convenient for travelers carrying large luggage or staying far from train stations.

  • Direct hotel connections
  • Comfortable seating and luggage storage
  • Excellent for families and groups
  • Travel times depend heavily on Tokyo traffic

Real Traveler Tip: During Tokyo rush hours, buses can take considerably longer than trains.

Taxis & Private Transfers

Taxis are available 24 hours outside all terminals. While very comfortable, they are also the most expensive transport option from Narita Airport due to the long distance to Tokyo.

  • Ideal for families or heavy luggage
  • Flat-rate taxi options available
  • English-speaking drivers may be limited
  • Private transfers can be booked online in advance
See more information

Car Rental at Narita Airport

Several major Japanese and international car rental companies operate at Narita Airport. Renting a car is highly recommended for travelers planning to visit rural Japan, Mount Fuji, Nikko or other regions outside Tokyo.

  • Toyota Rent a Car
  • Nippon Rent-A-Car
  • Nissan Rent a Car
  • Times Car Rental
  • Orix Rent-A-Car
See more information

Driving inside central Tokyo can be difficult due to traffic, toll roads and expensive parking.

Best Option Depending on Traveler

Traveler Type Best Transport Why
First-time visitors Narita Express Simple and direct
Budget travelers Airport Bus Cheaper fares available
Fastest route Keisei Skyliner Fastest travel time
Families Taxi or transfer More comfortable with luggage
Japan Rail Pass users Narita Express Included in JR Pass

Where to Find Transport at Narita Airport

Train stations are located directly below Terminals 1 and 2, while Terminal 3 passengers can access Terminal 2 station via a short walk or shuttle connection.

  • Terminal 1: JR and Keisei train stations in basement level
  • Terminal 2: Direct rail access available
  • Terminal 3: Connected to Terminal 2 by pedestrian walkway
  • Buses: Outside arrivals areas of all terminals
  • Taxis: Official taxi stands at arrivals exits

Narita Airport Transport Tips

  • Use Narita Express if staying near Tokyo, Shibuya or Shinjuku.
  • Use Skyliner for the fastest access to Ueno and Northeast Tokyo.
  • Avoid taxis unless traveling in groups or with lots of luggage.
  • Purchase a Suica or PASMO card immediately after arrival.
  • Allow extra travel time during Tokyo rush hours.
  • Some buses stop directly at major Tokyo hotels.