Train Access from Narita Airport to Tokyo

This guide explains in detail how to get from Narita International Airport (NRT) to central Tokyo by train. The trip from Narita to Tokyo takes about an hour by train. Here, we'll cover the two most popular options: the Narita Express and the Skyliner.

What you'll learn in this article

• The differences between the Narita Express and the Skyliner, and how to choose

• How to buy tickets (step by step)

• How to get to the station from each terminal

• Information for Japan Rail Pass holders

• Tips for early-morning and late-night flights

There are two train options from Narita Airport to Tokyo: the Narita Express, operated by JR, and the Skyliner, operated by the private railway company Keisei Electric Railway.

If you're heading to Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Shibuya, the Narita Express is the more convenient choice. If your destination is Ueno or Asakusa, the Skyliner works better. And for Japan Rail Pass holders, the Narita Express is the clear choice — with no extra charge.

The Narita Express (commonly known as N'EX) is a limited express airport train operated by JR East. It runs directly to Tokyo Station with no transfers required, making it the best option for first-time visitors to Japan. Another major advantage is that it accepts the Japan Rail Pass.

All seats on the Narita Express are reserved, so you'll need to purchase a ticket before boarding.

• Ticket vending machines at the station

• JR-East Train Reservation

If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can ride the Narita Express with no additional fee.

1. Show your Japan Rail Pass at a Midori no Madoguchi (ticket office)

2. Tell the staff your preferred train and seat

3. Receive your reserved-seat ticket (free of charge)

If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can also board without reserving a seat — in that case, simply take any open seat in the standard car. Note that the Green Car always requires a reserved-seat ticket.

You can also reserve your seat online via JR-East Train Reservation.

The Narita Express offers two classes of seating: the "Standard Car" and the "Green Car" (First Class).

A reserved seat on the standard Narita Express train costs ¥3,070. In contrast, a First-Class seat (referred to as "Green Car" in Japan) is priced at ¥5,340. I find that the reserved seat in the standard class is more than comfortable enough for an enjoyable journey.

The Skyliner is an airport express train operated by Keisei Electric Railway. Reaching Ueno Station in as little as 41 minutes, it's the fastest way to get from Narita Airport into central Tokyo.

• Luggage space Each car is equipped with large luggage racks, so — just like on the Narita Express — you can safely stow even big suitcases.

• Seating All seats recline, and large windows let you enjoy the passing scenery.

• In-train Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi is available.

• Power outlets Every seat is equipped with a power outlet.

(Inside the Narita Airport Skyliner)

(Luggage space on the Narita Airport Skyliner)

(Vending machine corner on the Narita Airport Express)

There are three ways to purchase tickets for the Keisei Skyliner, the Narita Airport express train.

• Keisei Electric Railway ticket counter (inside Narita Airport Station)

• Ticket vending machines

• Online reservation

At Narita Airport, there's a ticket counter near the Keisei Electric Railway ticket gates, where you can also purchase your ticket. Credit card payment is accepted, of course.

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket counter)

There are ticket vending machines near the ticket gates. Since they accept credit cards, paying there is another good option.

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket vending machine)

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket vending machine)

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket vending machine)

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket vending machine)

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket)

(Keisei Electric Railway ticket)

How to purchase from the ticket vending machine

1. Find a Keisei Line ticket vending machine

2. Select "Skyliner"

3. Choose your travel date/time and destination (Ueno or Nippori)

4. Select your seat

5. Pay (credit cards accepted)

6. Collect your ticket

The Skyliner does not run directly to Tokyo Station. If you're heading to Tokyo or Shinjuku Station, you'll need to transfer. Since a transfer is required for these destinations, the Narita Express is more convenient if you have large luggage or are visiting for the first time.

How to Get to Tokyo Station

1. Take the Skyliner to Nippori Station (about 36 minutes)

2. Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line or Keihin-Tohoku Line

3. Arrive at Tokyo Station (about 12 minutes)

• Total travel time: about 50–60 minutes

• Total fare: 2,520円 + 180円 = 2,700円

How to Get to Shinjuku Station

1. Take the Skyliner to Nippori Station (about 36 minutes)

2. Transfer to the JR Yamanote Line

3. Arrive at Shinjuku Station (about 25 minutes)

• Total travel time: about 65–75 minutes

• Total fare: 2,520円 + 210円 = 2,730円

If you're staying near Ueno Station or in the Asakusa area, the Skyliner is your best option.

• Hotels near Ueno Station → direct access via the Skyliner

• Asakusa → about 5 minutes from Ueno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line

For travelers looking to save money, there's also an option that doesn't require a limited express fare.

Keisei Electric Railway's "Access Express" is a rapid train that runs the same route as the Skyliner.

Advantages

• About half the price of the Skyliner

• No extra limited express fare required

Disadvantages

• No reserved seating (you may have to stand during busy periods)

• Limited luggage space

• About 20 minutes slower than the Skyliner

It gets crowded during morning and evening rush hours, so if you have large luggage, it's best to avoid these times.

Here are the travel times from each Narita Airport terminal to the station.

• Terminal 1: Directly connected to Narita Airport Station (about a 3-minute walk)

• Terminal 2: Airport Terminal 2 Station (about a 3-minute walk)

• Terminal 3: Airport Terminal 2 Station (about a 3-minute walk)

1. Go down from the Arrival Lobby (1F) to basement level 1 (B1)

2. Follow the signs for "JR Line" and "Keisei Line"

3. Arrive at Narita Airport Station

The JR Line (Narita Express) and Keisei Line (Skyliner) share the same station building but have separate ticket gates. Be sure to choose the gate that matches the train you're taking.

1. Go down from the Arrival Lobby (1F) to basement level 1 (B1)

2. Follow the signs for "JR Line" and "Keisei Line"

3. Arrive at Airport Terminal 2 Station (Kuko Dai-2 Biru)

Terminal 3 has no train station of its own. You'll need to make your way to "Airport Terminal 2 Station" at Terminal 2.

On foot

• Time required: About 8–15 minutes (depending on how much luggage you have)

• Route: Via the terminal connecting corridor

• Follow the blue line marked on the floor

By shuttle bus

• Time required: About 5 minutes

• Fare: Free

• Frequency: About every 5–10 minutes

If you have large luggage, we recommend taking the shuttle bus.