Most tourists choose to get to Tokyo Station from Narita Airport by bus, train, or airport transfer.

If you are currently at Narita Airport, you can see the best routes to Tokyo Station here, based on the current time.

Here are the best ways to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo, tailored to different needs and preferences. Consider factors such as convenience, hotel location, cost, luggage volume, and whether you are traveling in a group or with family. Choose the option that best suits your priorities!

If there is no bus stop at your hotel, you can choose the best transportation method based on your accommodation area.

If you want to save time, we recommend taking the JR Narita Express (N'EX) or Keisei Skyliner. Train delays are rare in Tokyo, making these options reliable. For those who need to stick to a timetable, avoiding buses or airport transfers is wise since they can be affected by traffic conditions.

The Narita Express (N'EX) is a paid airport express train covered under the Japan Rail Pass, offering quick and convenient travel from Narita Airport to several main stations around Tokyo, including Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Yokohama, and Omiya.

Key advantages include:
・Reclining seats
・Seats with table and power outlet
・Video billboard with information in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean
・Approximately 1-hour travel time
・Covered under the Japan Rail Pass

The only drawback is the high cost without a Japan Rail Pass: 3,070 yen for standard carriages (with seasonal discounts and surcharges) and 3,840 yen for premium green car (first class) carriages.

Despite the price, it remains the best option for a quick and comfortable journey to Tokyo Station without transfers. Board the Narita Express from Narita Airport Station (Terminal 1) or Narita Airport Terminal 2 Station (Terminals 2 and 3). Check the schedule carefully before boarding.

The Keisei Skyliner is a reserved seating paid express train service that offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to the Narita Express, taking visitors from Narita Airport to the Ueno area. From there, a quick transfer to a conventional train is needed to reach Tokyo Station.

Key advantages include:
・Reclining seats
・Seats with table and power outlet
・Relatively short travel time
・Convenient access to eastern Tokyo
・Cheaper than the Narita Express

If your hotel is in the Ueno or Asakusa area, the Keisei Skyliner may be the most straightforward train option. Tickets can be reserved or purchased online, at several ticket counters, or over the phone. The website is available in English, making it easy for international visitors to order tickets. Note, however, that the Japan Rail Pass cannot be used on this train.

For travelers prioritizing convenience, the Limousine Bus is a great option in addition to the trains mentioned.

These buses stop at major train stations and select hotels. If you choose the right hotel and route, the bus can take you directly to your hotel door. This is particularly useful for beginners or those with a poor sense of direction. You can even book tickets for your return trip at the hotel counter. Though slightly more expensive, it saves you the hassle of carrying heavy luggage and transferring, offering both convenience and peace of mind. Check the Limousine Bus website for a list of hotels where the bus stops.

Please also note that from bus stop #10 at Narita Airport Terminal 1, you can take a direct bus to Tokyo Disneyland for 2,300 yen.

If you're looking to save money and aren't worried about time, you can get to Tokyo Station from Narita Airport by conventional train alone. This method's most significant advantage is cost savings.

Note that this approach increases travel time to about 1.5 hours and isn't recommended for visitors with a lot of luggage. However, it offers significant cost savings.

Take advantage of transportation options with discounted rides. In addition to one-day passes, there are many discount packages for transportation in Japan, such as:
・Japan Rail Pass
・JR Tokyo Wide Pass
・JR East Rail Pass
・JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass

These discount tickets can be used when departing from the airport. Depending on the provider, you can buy tickets online or at the airport counter. These passes are ideal for tourists who want to visit multiple places with one ticket.

When arriving or departing, consider the amount of luggage you have.

Passengers with a lot of luggage should check allowances before purchasing bus tickets, as some bus companies have luggage restrictions, such as a limit of 1 or 2 pieces per person or weight limits. These restrictions can be inconvenient for those with a lot of luggage.

Trains should also be chosen carefully. On routes like the Yamanote Line, too much luggage may hinder other passengers, and there is a higher chance of luggage being scattered by the crowd.

Considering these factors, we recommend the JR Narita Express (N'EX), which has ample luggage space, for travelers with a lot of baggage. It also runs directly to major JR stations around Tokyo.

Alternatively, airport transfers are an economical and convenient way to travel for larger groups or families with lots of luggage.

Yet another option to consider is taking a taxi to town, but this is going to cost you a hefty chunk of change! Even if you manage to get on a flat-rate taxi, the fee is usually fixed at 23,000 yen (tax included; from 10 PM until 5 AM, this rate increases to 28,000 yen), and that is in addition to the extra toll charges you will incur for using highways. The taxi will take about an hour to reach Tokyo Station, and they can be reserved over the phone.

Nihon Kotsu Narita Airport Flat Rate Taxi
・Phone: 050-3116-8217
・English language operators: 050-3116-4791
・Reception: 24 hours daily

Renting a car at Narita Airport is perfect for travelers who want the freedom to explore Japan on their own terms. Whether you're a family on vacation or a tourist eager to discover hidden gems, a rental car offers the flexibility you need. It’s a great option for reaching places that aren't easily accessible by public transportation, such as rural areas, scenic spots, and lesser-known attractions. With a rental car, you can save time, travel in comfort, and enjoy a more personalized journey.

When traveling in a group, it's essential to consider the convenience and cost-effectiveness of your transportation options. Here are some recommendations:

Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are an economical and convenient way to travel, especially for larger groups or families with plenty of luggage. These services offer door-to-door transport from the airport to your accommodation, providing a hassle-free experience.

Limousine Bus
The Limousine Bus is an excellent option for groups as it offers direct service to many hotels and major train stations in Tokyo. This eliminates the need to transfer between multiple trains with your luggage, making it a more convenient and comfortable choice.

JR Narita Express (N'EX)
The JR Narita Express is ideal for groups who want to reach Tokyo Station quickly and comfortably without the hassle of transfers. With spacious luggage storage and comfortable seating, it's an excellent option for groups, despite the higher cost.

Keisei Skyliner
For groups looking to save on costs, the Keisei Skyliner is a good alternative. Although it may require a transfer at Nippori Station, it offers a relatively short travel time and is more budget-friendly compared to the JR Narita Express (N'EX).

With so many ways to get to Tokyo Station from Narita Airport, visitors who are new to Japan may find it challenging to choose the right one for them, even after much research. We hope this comprehensive list of pros and cons of each method can put you on the right track and allow you to spend more time enjoying your trip instead of mulling over transport options!

Known as the gateway to Japan, Tokyo Station is a trendy place, particularly among tourists. It is conveniently located near the Imperial Palace and countless other sightseeing hotspots that you won't want to miss.

Right in the station itself is the JR EAST Travel Service Center, which provides several essential services for foreign visitors coming directly from the airport, such as Japan Rail Pass sales, baggage storage (with Yamato Transport) and currency exchange.

This center is located just outside the Marunouchi North Exit ticket gates.

*This article was published in September 2024. Please check the official website of each store/facility for the latest information.