12 Must-Know Things About the Narita Express Train Before Booking Your Ticket
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan, and will be arriving at Narita International Airport, you may be wondering about the best way to get from the airport to central Tokyo. One of the most popular options is the Narita Express, or N’EX train. With its convenience, comfort, and efficiency, it’s no wonder that many people opt for this mode of transportation.
Before you go off to buy a Narita Express train ticket, here are 15 nuggets of wisdom that will provide you the essential info about the train, and make your journey smoother than a well-crafted sushi roll.
1 . Narita Express Is the Fastest Way to Get from Narita International Airport to Central Tokyo
When it comes to traveling from Narita Airport to Tokyo, the Narita Express offers a fast and efficient option. The journey usually takes approximately 53-80 minutes, depending on your final destination in Tokyo.
The Narita Express stops at various major stations, including Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station, Ikebukuro Station, and Yokohama Station.
With its direct route and limited stops, the Narita Express allows you to reach your destination in Tokyo in the shortest possible time. This makes it the fastest ways to reach the city center from the airport.
Unsure about what this Narita Express train is, and what I am talking about? Read my easy-to-understand and summed-up post on the best way to travel from Narita Airport to Tokyo, at “The Narita Express (N’EX) : Fast and Easy Travel from Airport to Tokyo”.
2 . The Narita Express Train Runs Many Times per Day, Everyday
The Narita Express train (or N’EX for short) operates daily, providing frequent departures from Narita Airport to major stations in and around Tokyo. Whether you arrive in the morning, afternoon, or evening, you can count on the Narita Express to be available to transport you to your destination.
Is the Narita Express available around the clock like your local convenience store? Not quite. The N’EX operates from around 7 AM to 9:45 PM, and typically departs every 30 minutes, so plan your arrival accordingly.
If you’re landing very early or late at night (around 10 PM or later), you might need to consider other transport options, such as the affordable and convenient Airport Limousine Bus, or a taxi or Uber (way more expensive).
3 . The Narita Express Train Has Direct Stops at Many Major Stations and Hubs in Tokyo
You heard that right. The Narita Express stops at various major hubs and stations, including Tokyo Station, Shinagawa Station, Shibuya Station, Shinjuku Station, Ikebukuro Station, and Yokohama Station.
With its direct route and limited stops, the Narita Express allows tourists and travelers, who often base themselves in these popular areas, to reach their destination in Tokyo in the shortest possible time, and hassle-free.
4 . The Narita Express is an All-Reserved-Seat Train
What does that mean? It means if you buy a Narita Express (N’EX) ticket, you are guaranteed a reserved seat in the train. Choose your seat at time of purchase, and you are good to go!
5 . Always Book Your Narita Express Ticket In Advance During Peak Travel Season
While the Narita Express generally has very good availability, Japan also has its peak travel seasons, like cherry blossom madness in spring and colorful foliage fever in autumn, national holidays, or festivals.
During these times, the Narita Express can be as crowded and bustling as Shibuya Crossing on a weekend.
So if you are traveling to Tokyo during the busy season, it is highly recommended that you secure your seats ahead of time. Advanced ticket reservation is the way to go here.
This will ensure that you have a guaranteed seat on the train and can travel comfortably and avoid the possibility of standing throughout the trip.
Reservations can be made at ticket counters, N’EX ticket machines, or online through the Narita Express official website.
Additional Info
Busy seasons in Japan usually align with school holidays, so keep that in mind when planning your trip. Be aware that popular routes might fill up fast, so it’s wise to make reservations a few weeks before your travel date.
6 . There Are Many Ways to Buy Your Narita Express Tickets
When it comes to purchasing your N’EX ticket, you’ve got choices. You can either :
a . Buy at a Narita Express ticket counter or JR Ticket Office
Roll up to the ticket counter in the Arrivals area of Narita International Airport, and chat with the friendly attendants.The ticket counters provide face-to-face assistance, making it easier for travelers who may have questions or need guidance.
b . Buy at a N’EX Ticket Machine
If you prefer a self-service approach, ticket machines offer a convenient and efficient way to purchase your ticket (super fast and easy to use). They have multiple language options, ensuring ease of use for international travelers.
c . Buy Online at the Official Narita Express Website
If you are traveling in Japan’s busy season, reserve your Narita Express train tickets online ahead of time to ensure you are guaranteed a seat in the train. Reservations can be made within 1 month of your travel date.
Additional Info
- Ticket counters will take all sorts of payments (cash, debit cards, credit cards, smart prepaid IC cards). If you have a non-Japanese credit card and don’t have Japanese yen on hand; opt for the ticket counter.
- Ticket machines often accept both cash and credit cards as well, however sometimes there are issues with accepting foreign credit cards.
7 . There Are 2 Types of Seat Reservation for the Narita Express Train : Standard and Green Car (First-Class) Seats
There are 2 types of Narita Express ticket, which go with the specific cars and seats accordingly : Standard and Green Car (First-class) cars.
Green Car seat comes at a higher fare, as it offers more spacious and comfortable seating and quieter environment, perfect for relaxing after a long flight. The seats are wider, made of leather, and provide more legroom.
If you’re willing to splurge a bit for comfort and style, the Green Car is the way to go. However, if you prefer to save your yen for other aspects of your trip, standard cars offer a comfortable and perfectly enjoyable experience.
To secure a specific seat on the Narita Express, it is recommended to make a seat reservation at the time of buying your ticket. By reserving your seat, you can ensure that you have a specific seat number assigned to you, allowing for a more comfortable and stress-free journey.
It is especially important to make seat reservations during peak travel seasons to guarantee a seat, as the trains can fill up quickly.
8 . If You Travel with Friends or Family, Make Advanced Reservation In Order to Sit Together
If you are traveling with friends or family and would like to sit together on the Narita Express, it is best to make seat reservations in advance and together, as a group. It is best to have one person in the group buying all the tickets, ensuring easier seat selection for the whole group.
This can be done at the ticket counter by informing the ticket counter staff. Or use the ticket machine and specify that you would like seats together for your group, and selecting multiple seats on the ticket machine.
By doing so, you can make sure that you and your group can enjoy the journey together.
Additional Info
- To maximize your chances of sitting together, try to book your tickets as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Consider booking consecutive seats or rows if traveling with a larger group. Every row consists of 4-5 seats total, so choose accordingly.
- If you’re unable to secure seats together, don’t fret too much; the journey is relatively short, and you can always switch seats if needed.
9 . Travel with Baggage? There are Overhead Luggage Racks and Oversized Luggage Storage Space Available in Every Train Car
Worried about lugging your heavy suitcases around? Don’t be! The Narita Express has dedicated luggage areas where you can stow your bags, depending on your luggage size.
| Total Dimension per Baggage (= L + W + H) (in cm) | Max Weight per Baggage | Seat Reservation | Baggage Reservation | Where to Store Baggage |
| Up to 160 cm | 30 Kg | Optional | Not required | On the overhead baggage rack above seat, or in front of you (no legroom) |
| 161 – 250 cm | 30 Kg | Required | Required | In the designated oversized luggage space directly behind your reserved seat, or in front of you |
| More than 250 cm | 30 Kg | Optional | Baggage not allowed on train | Baggage exceeds limits and is not allowed on train. Must use luggage forwarding service instead |
Assigned Luggage Area
The luggage areas are usually located near the entrances of each car for easy access. They are designed to accommodate larger suitcases and backpacks, so you don’t have to keep your luggage in your seating area, ensuring a more comfortable journey for you and your fellow passengers.
Overhead Luggage Racks
You can also store your smaller suitcases or bags in the racks above your seat for easier access. Just make sure they are placed securely and don’t fall into the aisle or on other passengers.
Oversized Luggage Seats
If you have large suitcases which don’t fit on the overhead racks, you can store them at your seat, in front of your legs (and not obstructing the aisle area).
Or ask to reserve an oversized luggage seat (where the oversized luggage can be store behind your seat) when you buy your ticket at the ticket counter. It is free to reserve the seat, so make sure you do.
Additional Info
- Make sure to check the Luggage Size Chart above if your luggage is over the allowed limits or not. If you are caught with bags over the train-allowed sizes, you will be charged a fine, and asked to leave the train at the next stop. Read my very helpful blog post on what to do if you travel with oversized luggage here.
- If you have valuables in your luggage, consider using a luggage lock. Many trains have luggage racks with locks provided for your convenience as well, but most others don’t.
10 . Travelers with Japan Rail Pass Ride Can Use the Narita Express Train for Free
If you are a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) holder, you can hop on the Narita Express for free! Just make sure to reserve your seat in advance to secure your seat.
Reserving a seat can be done at the JR Ticket Office, at ticket machines, or online, and is very important during busy travel season. Trains often get very crowded around this time, and without a reserved seat, you might end up standing in the aisle the entire train ride.
Additional Info
- The Japan Rail Pass is a fantastic value if you plan to travel extensively within Japan by train and in a short time.
- It allows unlimited travel on the Japan Rail (JR) network, including many Shinkansen (bullet trains) and local JR trains.
- Keep in mind that the JR Pass must be purchased before arriving in Japan, so plan ahead to make the most of this cost-effective option.
- When using your Japan Rail Pass for the Narita Express, you’ll still need to reserve a seat. You can do this at the JR Pass exchange counter at the airport, at ticket machines, or online.
- For all-you-need-to know about the JR Pass, and whether it is worth the price tag for YOUR trip, read my blog posts here :
- “Japan Rail Pass : Answers to All Your Questions, and Is It Worth Buying?” : Read it here
- “How To Know If You Should Buy a Japan Rail Pass for Your Japan Trip Or Not” : Read it here
11 . Worried about Staying Connected? Free WiFi and Power Charging on the Narita Express
- You can breathe easy because the Narita Express offers free WiFi, allowing you to post those envy-inducing travel photos instantly, or stay connected with friends and family back home.
- WiFi passwords are typically displayed in the train cars, at every seat, so you can connect easily.
- The WiFi connection on the Narita Express is generally reliable and can be handy for checking maps, communicating with friends or family, reading news, or even catching up on some work during your journey.
- Additionally, power outlets and USB ports are available at every seats in both standard and Green Cars, so your devices won’t run out of juice. However, it’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter if you have devices with non-Japanese plugs.
12 . Essential Etiquettes to Be Mindful Of During Your Train Ride
When traveling on the Narita Express train, it is important to be mindful of bullet train etiquettes to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and fellow passengers. Some key etiquettes to keep in mind are :
- Being Punctual : Arrive at the platform a few minutes before the scheduled departure time and line up in front of your assigned train car to ensure a smooth boarding process.
- Respect the Queue : If your train has not arrived, line up in front of your assigned train car and in the appropriate order, to ensure a smooth boarding process. Once the train attendants announces the train is ready to board, proceed quickly and in the order you are in line. Do not cut other people in line (considered super rude in Japan).
- Keeping Your Luggages and Belongings Neat and Secured : The Narita Express has designated luggage racks and overhead storage bins, so make sure to place your bags in the appropriate area to keep the aisles clear.
- Be Quiet : The Japanese trains are known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, so it’s important to keep conversations and noise to a minimum at all time.
- Refraining from Eating Strong-Smelling Food : Eating and drinking on bullet trains are allowed. However, to maintain a pleasant environment for all passengers, it’s best to avoid consuming food with strong odors during the journey. Also, do not speak and eat at the same time, as it is considered very rude.
- Pay Attention to Your Upcoming Train Stop : Once the announcement and the overhead signs show your stop/destination is coming up next, be ready to gather your luggage and belongings and be at the train door in 2-5 minutes. The doors won’t stay open for long, so don’t miss your stop!
By following these etiquettes, you can contribute to a pleasant and comfortable journey for yourself and fellow passengers.
That’s it! I hope this posts help you be prepared for what to expect when it comes to buying your Narita Express ticket and traveling on it. If you have any questions or just want to share your own travel stories, I’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to reach out to me at evelyn@japanoncloudnine.com, and let’s chat. Thank you for taking the time to read my blog post, and happy travels!
Post You Might be Interested In
– Do you need a fast, easy, and economical way to get from Narita International Airport to central Tokyo ? Read my “The Narita Express (N’EX) : Fast and Easy Travel from Airport to Tokyo” post here.
– Ready to book your Narita Express tickets and reserve your seat the quick and easy way? You can do that at one of the many N’EX ticket machines at the Arrivals area at Narita International Airport. Read my “How To Buy Narita Express Train Ticket and Reserve Your Seat at Ticketing Machine” post here on how.
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– Do you need an easy, convenient, and economical way to get from Narita International Airport to central Tokyo with luggages ? Read my “Airport Limousine Bus – The Convenient Way to Get from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo” post here. Going to Haneda airport instead? Read this post.
And much more – Check out all of my posts here on the Main page.
