Travelling from Narita Airport to Tokyo is one of the first steps of your Japan trip. While Narita is further from the city than Haneda Airport, there are several reliable transport options depending on your budget, luggage, and destination.
This guide explains the best ways to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo, including the fastest routes, cheapest options, and which transport to choose for your itinerary.
Quick Answer
The fastest way to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo is the Narita Express (N’EX) or Keisei Skyliner (40–60 minutes). Budget travellers can use local trains for around ¥1,000–¥1,500, while buses are best for convenience with luggage.
Table of Contents
• Best Way to Get from Narita to Tokyo
• Narita Express (N’EX)
• Keisei Skyliner
• Local Trains (Cheapest Option)
• Airport Limousine Bus
• Taxi from Narita
• Narita vs Haneda Airport
• IC Cards & Tickets
• JR Pass – Is It Worth It?
• Luggage Tips
• FAQ
Best Way to Get from Narita to Tokyo
The best option depends on:
• where you are staying
• your budget
• luggage amount
For most travellers:
• Narita Express = best for Tokyo Station & Shinjuku
• Keisei Skyliner = best for Ueno
• Bus = best with luggage
• Local train = cheapest
Narita Express (N’EX)
The Narita Express is one of the most popular and comfortable ways to travel to Tokyo.
Route
• Tokyo Station
• Shinjuku
• Shibuya
• Yokohama
Travel Time
• 60–75 minutes
Cost
• approx ¥3,000
Best For
• first-time visitors
• direct access to major stations
• travellers with luggage
Why Choose This
✔ direct routes
✔ comfortable seating
✔ luggage space
Keisei Skyliner (Fastest Option)
The Keisei Skyliner is one of the fastest ways to reach Tokyo.
Route
• Ueno
• Nippori
Travel Time
• 40–50 minutes
Cost
• approx ¥2,500
Best For
• Ueno area
• fast access to north-east Tokyo
Why Choose This
✔ faster than N’EX
✔ reliable
✔ easy transfer to JR lines
Local Trains (Cheapest Option)
Local Keisei or JR trains are the most budget-friendly option.
Cost
• ¥1,000–¥1,500
Travel Time
• 90+ minutes
• multiple transfers
Best For
• budget travellers
• light luggage
Why Choose This
✔ cheapest option
❌ slower and more complex
Airport Limousine Bus
The Airport Limousine Bus provides direct transport to major hotels and districts.
Destinations
• Shinjuku
• Shibuya
• Tokyo Station
• major hotels
Travel Time
• 60–120 minutes
Cost
• ¥3,000–¥3,500
Best For
• heavy luggage
• hotel drop-off
• stress-free arrival
Taxi from Narita
Taxis are available but expensive.
Cost
• ¥20,000–30,000+
Travel Time
• 60–90 minutes
When to Use
• late-night arrivals
• group travel
For most travellers, trains or buses are better options.
Which Option Is Best?
Quick recommendations:
• Tokyo Station / Shinjuku → Narita Express
• Ueno → Keisei Skyliner
• Heavy luggage → Airport bus
• Budget → Local trains
Always check last train times if arriving late.
Narita vs Haneda – Which Is Better?
Haneda is generally more convenient for Tokyo.
Haneda Advantages
• closer to the city
• cheaper transport
• faster travel time
Narita Advantages
• more international flights
• sometimes cheaper fares
👉 See our Haneda Airport to Tokyo guide for comparison.
Using IC Cards
IC cards make travel much easier.
You can use:
• Suica
• Pasmo
These work on:
• local trains
• some airport routes
👉 Read our IC Card Guide.
Is Narita Covered by the JR Pass?
The Narita Express is covered by the nationwide JR Pass.
However:
• not all routes are covered
• using the JR Pass just for airport transfer is rarely worth it
👉 Use our Japan Rail Pass Calculator before purchasing.
Luggage Considerations
Narita travel involves longer distances than Haneda.
If travelling across Japan after arrival, consider:
• Airport Limousine Bus
• Luggage forwarding service
👉 See our Luggage Forwarding in Japan Guide.
Best Time to Travel from Narita
Peak Hours
• morning and evening commuter times
• trains can be crowded
Late Night
Narita has limited late-night transport.
Check schedules carefully if arriving late.
FAQ: Narita Airport to Tokyo
How long does it take from Narita to Tokyo?
Between 50–90 minutes depending on the route.
Is Narita far from Tokyo?
Yes — Narita is about 60 km east of central Tokyo.
Is the Narita Express worth it?
Yes — especially for comfort and direct access to major stations.
What is the cheapest way to get from Narita to Tokyo?
Local trains are the cheapest option.
Final Thoughts
Narita Airport offers multiple reliable transport options to central Tokyo. While it is further away than Haneda, efficient train and bus services make it easy to reach the city.
Your best option depends on location, budget, and luggage, but most travellers will choose between the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner.
👉 For full arrival planning, explore our How to Plan a Trip to Japan guide.