The first concern in a big city like Tokyo is as I reach the center from the airport, in this case, Narita Airport. There are endless ways and means of transport that connect this huge hub to the city center. Everything depends on your time and how much you want to spend. I had a great misfortune that the Faxai hurricane had just passed when I arrived, consequently, all transport was blocked. It can happen, the Japanese are very safety first. Check my 15 days itinerary in Japan to know everything about my Japanese trip.
THE AIRPORT
Narita airport is the predominant international airport in Japan, handling around 50% of the country’s international passenger traffic. It is located approximately 60 kilometers east of central Tokyo in Chiba Prefecture.
The airport is 65km from Tokyo station, it is composed of the North Terminal and South Terminal. Lots of shops, restaurants and even many comfortable seats, in case you have to stay and sleep.
TOKYO SHUTTLE
By bus it is the cheapest option, in this case, the journey will cost you 1000yen (return ticket 1900yen). The Tokyo Shuttle is operated by the Keisei company and leaves every 20min from Tokyo station. The stop is located 150m in front of the JR Tokyo station entrance, the web explains it very well.
The journey takes 1h20 without traffic and does not make intermediate stops direct to Narita airport. The ticket can be combined with the Tokyo metro pass. Combo ticket available with a 24-hour ticket for 2,600 yen, 48-hour ticket for 3,000 yen, or 72-hour ticket for 3,300 yen.
Want to know how to get around to visit Tokyo? Read here!
NARITA EXPRESS (N’EX)
Narita Express is the fastest and most practical way to travel between downtown Tokyo and Narita International Airport. It’s fast, reliable and on time and you can take it for free with the Japan Rail Pass. Want more info on the Japan rail? Read here!
The Narita Express is a Limited Express train operated by JR East. The negative point of the N’ex is that passengers who have not booked their seats will not be able to access the trains. Make sure you reserve your seat before boarding, you can do it at Narita airport (Terminals 1 and 2-3).
Travel time 1 hour for N’EX trains to reach Tokyo station. 1 hour and 15 minutes to Shibuya station and about 1 hour and 20 minutes to Shinjuku station. Trains run every 30min if you do not have the JR PASS the ticket price is 1320yen.
BY TRANSFER
The option of a transfer or a taxi is always the most expensive and is not the fastest. A taxi can cost you 10,000yen (approx 90 €) to Tokyo Station, always ask before boarding. Normally taxi drivers do not speak English, so let yourself be understood. For a transfer, I recommend booking it a little in advance here, it can cost as little as € 170.
