The Narita Express (N’EX) : Fast and Easy Travel from Airport to Tokyo

Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and are wondering about the best way to get from Narita International Airport to your hotel in Tokyo. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

One of the most common entry points to Japan is Narita International Airport (NRT), which not in Tokyo itself, but located about 80 kilometers east of Tokyo. Visitors will then need to take either a train, bus, or taxi from Narita airport to arrive at central Tokyo.

After a long flight, the last thing you want is to deal with the stress of navigating unfamiliar transportation systems and public train stations. Don’t worry, we have a solution that will get you to your Tokyo hotel quickly, easily, and without the headache – the Narita Express train. This train will have you zipping through the city in no time, so you can start exploring all that Tokyo has to offer.

What is the Narita Express Train?

Narita Express, or N’EX for short, is an express train that connects Narita International Airport, the main international gateway to Tokyo, with major stations in central Tokyo, such as Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.

The train is operated by Japan Railways (JR), and is known for its speed, comfort, and convenience, making it the perfect choice for travelers who want to get to central Tokyo quickly and efficiently.

With its direct (no-train-transfer) connection to Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, or Shinagawa, if your hotel is in one of those areas, the Narita Express train is your best and most convenient transport option.

No more dealing with the hassle of finding a taxi or figuring out the confusing bus system. With the Narita Express, you’ll be comfortably seated and enjoying the ride to your Tokyo hotel in no time.

Why Choose the Narita Express (N/EX) Train to Get from Narita Airport to Tokyo?

• Speed : The Narita Express train is the fastest way to get from Narita International Airport to central Tokyo, with trains departing every 30 minutes and taking around 53-80 minutes to reach major Tokyo train stations.

• Convenience : it is a direct train service to Tokyo, which means you won’t have to transfer to other modes of transport or drag luggages through crowded train stations

• Comfort : it offers a very clean train, spacious seats, ample luggage space, power outlets, and free Wi-Fi

• Affordability : The N’EX is slightly more expensive than low-cost buses, however a much more economical choice compared to taxis, considering its speed, convenience, and amenities.

How Long Does It Take to Travel from Narita Airport to Tokyo Using Narita Express Train?

It is a direct 53-minute train ride (no transfer) from Narita International Airport to Tokyo station in Tokyo.

It is a direct 75-minute train ride (no transfer) from Narita International Airport to other major stations in Tokyo like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, or Ikebukuro station.

Where Does the Narita Express Train Stop?

The train stops at major hubs and train stations, such as Narita International Airport (Terminal 1 and 2), Chiba, Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Yokohama, Musashi-Kosugi, Ofuna, and Hachioji.

How Much Does a Narita Express Train Ticket Cost?

To/From Narita International Airport	Ordinary Car Ticket	Green Car (First-class) Ticket
Tokyo Station	3,070 yen	5,340 yen
Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa	3,250 yen	5,520 yen
Yokohama	4,370 yen	6,640 yen
Ofuna	4,700 yen	6,970 yen

• The only difference between Ordinary Car ticket vs. Green Car (First-class) ticket is that Green Car seat is slightly roomier and made of leather (instead of fabric).
• The above prices are Adult’s fare. A Child’s fare is half of Adult’s fare.
• Any child under the age of 6 can ride the train for free, if accompanied by an adult.
• If more than 2 children are accompanied by 1 adult, the 3rd child and any child after will need his/her own ticket.

Can I Use My Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) to Ride the Narita Express For Free?

The Narita Express train is operated by the JR Groups, so the JR Pass automatically covers this train. So you can ride the Narita Express using your JR Pass without needing to buy a separate ticket.

However, if you are not traveling to multiple other cities shortly after, don’t use your JR Pass yet. Once you activate the pass, the timer on the pass starts and you start losing time on it. So it’s best to save it and activate the pass when you are about to go on many long-distanced trips.

What Time Are the Earliest Train and the Last Train of the Day?

Train schedule can change depending on seasons and weather factors, however the earliest train from Narita Airport is usually around 7 AM.

The last train of the day is usually before 10 PM.

If you are going from a major train station to Narita airport : the earliest train could be as early as 5:55 AM.

What Are the Amenities Provided on the Narita Express (N’EX) Train?

The Narita Express offers a range of amenities that make the journey comfortable and enjoyable for travelers:

• Spacious seats with plenty of legroom, making it easy to relax after a long flight.

• Power outlet or charging port is located at every seat, so you can charge your devices while on board.

• Luggage is another important consideration for travelers, and the Narita Express has you covered. The train has ample luggage space for large suitcases at the front of each car, and overhead storage compartments for smaller items, such as bags and purses. The recent upgrade to the trains include additionally installed security locks and camera.

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the train, so you can stay connected and entertained while traveling.

• Multilingual announcements and overhead LCD screens in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese languages in the train, making it accessible for international travelers who may not speak Japanese.

• Clean and spacious restrooms are conveniently located throughout the train cars as well as at the train station in the airport

• Ordinary Car seats have fabric upholstery, while Green Car (First-class) seats have leather upholstery and are even more room.

Are Foods and Drinks Allowed on the Narita Express Train?

Yes! Food and drinks are allowed on the train, but there are no vending machines onboard. So make sure you buy some at the convenience stores before boarding the train.

There are cafes, convenience stores, drug stores, ATM machines, eSIM vending machines, and even currency exchange machines at the train station area in Narita Airport. So if you have some time to spare before your train arrives, don’t forget to check them out while waiting.

Where Do I Buy My Narita Express (N’EX) Ticket?

You can buy a Narita Express ticket at any of the following places :

• Narita Airport (Terminal 1 or Terminal 2) JR Ticket Office
• Narita Airport (Terminal 1 or Terminal 2) JR EAST Travel Service Center
• If you arrive at Terminal 3, you’ll need to either walk or take the free shuttle bus from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2 to get to the train station area
• JR EAST Travel Service Center in Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, or other major train stations in Tokyo and surrounding areas
• Automatic ticketing machines located at the train station area of Narita Airport and major stations in Tokyo and surrounding areas
• Online, in advance, through the official JR East Website here
• Some travel agencies may also offer Narita Express tickets as part of their travel packages.
• Klook website, a popular site for all Japanese tickets and services, sometimes offers discounted Narita Express tickets

Must I Pre-Book My Ticket?

No. You could buy a ticket and ride once arriving at airport. There are plenty of trains available throughout the day, so there is no need to reserve your ticket in advance.

However, if you travel during the Golden Week (the end of April lasting through most of the first week of May) or other busy Japanese holidays, then purchase your ticket in advance to guarantee a seat at the official JR East Website here.

Where Do I Find the Best Prices or Discounted Tickets?

There are several ways foreign visitors to Japan can find discounted Narita Express train tickets :

• If you buy your ticket at a ticket office on the day of travel : There is currently a special offer for a roundtrip ticket voucher for 4,070 yen total. This travel voucher is valid if you use it to travel within 14 days of the purchase day. This translates to more than 30% saving = more than 2,000 yen saved, compared to buying 2 separate one-way tickets.

• This same voucher is also currently available for online purchase in advance at the official JR East Website here.

• By using a discount pass : Visitors to Japan could purchase various discount passes that include Narita Express train travel, such as the Japan Rail Pass, Tokyo Wide Pass, and JR East Pass, etc. at either the official Klook website or at the official JR East Website here.

• From travel agencies : Some travel agencies may offer discounted Narita Express tickets as part of their travel packages.

It’s always best to check the official JR East Website or ask a ticket attendant at a JR East Travel Service Center for the latest promotions and discounts.

How Do I Locate and Get on My Narita Express Train at Narita Airport on the Day of Travel?

Follow these steps to find your train :

Step 1 : After clearing customs and baggage claim, look for signs pointing to the Narita Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 train station. The train station is located in the First Basement Level (B1 Floor) at Narita International Airport.

Step 2 : Once you take the escalator or elevator to reach the train station, follow signs for the Narita Express train.

Step 3 : Locate the Narita Express ticket vending machine (in red labeled area) or a JR EAST Travel Service Center. Buy your ticket. Or buy it online in advance at the official JR East Website here.

If you have a JR Pass, you can skip this step and go straight to your desired train.

Step 4 : Look for the train platform number and train car number displayed on your ticket, and follow the overhead signs to get to your train.

Step 5 : Insert your train ticket at the terminal and pick it up after you get through. Or if you have a JR Pass, show it to the ticket booth attendant to get through the gate.

You will see overhead signs showing your train info and departure time at the waiting area.

Step 6 : It is best to arrive at platform 10 to 15 minutes before departure time as it could be crowded. Queue up at your train car number, and wait for the train to arrive. Board the train and find your seat.

If you have any difficulty finding the train or need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask station attendants at the ticket office or on the train platform for help.

Step 7 : Once the train departs, sit back and relax during the approximately one-hour journey to Tokyo. The train makes stops at major stations such as Shinagawa, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, so check the train overhead LCD screens to see when your destination is coming up next, and exit.

Congratulations, you have successfully used the Narita Express to travel from Narita Airport to Tokyo!

What If I Need More Help or Info about Booking My Ticket?

If you need more help or information about booking your Narita Express ticket, there are several resources available to you:

• The official JR East Website provides detailed information on ticket prices, train schedules, and how to purchase tickets online.

• If you are unsure about which ticket to purchase or have questions about the ticket purchasing process, you can ask for assistance from station attendants at the Narita Airport Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 Ticket Office or JR East Travel Service Center.

What Should I Do If My Flight Arrives Late at Narita Airport, and I Miss the Last Narita Express Train of the Day?

There are many Narita Express trains going from Narita to Tokyo every day, from 7 AM to 9:45 PM. And on average, there is a train every 30 minutes to take visitors to Tokyo, so don’t worry about missing the train.

However, if your flight happens to be delayed or arrive late at Narita : There are still other transport options available, such as the very easy and convenient Airport Limousine Bus service, which runs even later than the Narita Express. See my quick introduction of it in the section below, or check out my post on everything you need to use the Airport Limousine Bus from Narita to Tokyo here.

If you arrive at Haneda airport instead of Narita, check out my post on how to use the Haneda Airport Limousine Bus here.

In the worst case scenario, if your plane arrives after both the Narita Express and the Airport Limousine Bus have closed for the day : Don’t panic! Just book one of the hotels in the area of the airport, take the free shuttle from the airport to the hotel, and rest up for the night. In the morning, take the free shuttle back to the airport, and catch one of the Narita Express trains or bus to Tokyo.

What Are Other Transport Options beside the Narita Express?

Here are some of the other options in case you are interested :

Airport Limousine Bus

The Limousine Bus is a comfortable and affordable option for traveling directly from Narita Airport to Tokyo.

The bus makes stops at major hotels and destinations throughout the city, and tickets can be purchased at the airport or online in advance.

The bus can take anywhere from 60 to 120 minutes depending on traffic conditions. These buses run every 15-20 minutes throughout the day, every day, and run longer and well after the last Narita Express train is closed, so it is a great alternative for visitors to get to Tokyo.

Have many questions about the Airport Limousine Bus at Narita or Haneda airport as a transport mode going from the airport to Tokyo? And if it’s a good fit for your travel needs? Have all your questions answered here in my “Taking the Airport Limousine Bus to/from Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo – All your Questions Answered” article.

Keisei Skyliner

The Keisei Skyliner is a high-speed train that connects Narita Airport to Ueno Station in central Tokyo, then additional train transfer is needed to get to other hubs in Tokyo. The train is known for its speed and comfort, with a travel time of approximately 41 minutes, and costs 2,570 yen. Tickets can be purchased at the airport or online in advance.

For online booking and more info, check out the official Keisei Skyliner website here.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available at Narita Airport, but they can be very expensive (25,000+ yen), especially for longer distances. Taxis are a good option if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a large group (5 people or more), but they can take longer in traffic.

Low-Cost Carrier Trains or Local Trains

Low-cost carrier trains or local trains are the most affordable option for traveling from Narita Airport to Tokyo, but they can be confusing for first-time visitors. Local trains make many stops, possibly several transfers, and can take up to 2 hours to reach central Tokyo, depending on your final destination and time of day. It is recommended to only take the local train if you have experience using the Japanese train system.

Ultimately, the best transportation option for you will depend on your budget, travel time, and comfort level. It is important to research and compare the different options to find the best one for your needs.

Post You Might be Interested In

– Are you planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan for the very first time and worried about how best to get from Narita International Airport to central Tokyo after arriving in Japan? Read my “Airport Limousine Bus – The Convenient Way to Get from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo” post here.

– Have many questions about the Airport Limousine Bus at Narita or Haneda airport as a transport mode going from the airport to Tokyo? And if it’s a good fit for your travel needs? Have all your questions answered here in my “Taking the Airport Limousine Bus to/from Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo – All your Questions Answered” article.

– Wonder what awesome tips you could get in order to navigate Tokyo and Japan in general smoothly and stress-free, with or without a JR Pass ? Read my “12 Ultimate Tips for Taking Tokyo’s Public Transport With Ease” post here.

– Interested in knowing more about the all-time traveler favorite and super awesome Pasmo and Suica IC cards? Read my “Stress-Free Tokyo Travel with IC Cards : Everything You Need to Know” post here.

– Wonder what the JR Pass everyone talks about all the time is? More importantly, if getting a JR Pass would be a good idea and save you a lot of money on transportation costs? Get concise and practical answers here in my “Japan Rail Pass : Answers to All Your Questions, and Is It Worth Buying?“ post.