Narita Airport is much farther from central Tokyo than Haneda Airport, so choosing the right transportation option can make a big difference — especially after a long flight.
The good news is that getting into Tokyo is straightforward. You can take a fast train, a direct airport bus, or a taxi depending on where you are staying and how much luggage you have.
Here’s the simple version.
Quick Answer: Which Option Should You Take?
| If you’re going to… | Best option | Why |
| Ueno or Nippori | Keisei Skyliner | Fast and direct |
| Tokyo Station | Narita Express (N’EX) | Direct and easy |
| Shibuya or Shinjuku | Narita Express (N’EX) | Direct with no transfer |
| A hotel served by an airport bus | Airport bus | Easy with luggage |
| Tokyo Station on a budget | Low-cost bus | Much cheaper |
1. Keisei Skyliner — Great for Ueno and Nippori
The Keisei Skyliner is one of the fastest ways to travel between Narita Airport and central Tokyo.
It runs directly to Nippori and Keisei-Ueno stations.
The regular adult fare from Narita Airport to Nippori or Ueno is ¥2,470, and all Skyliner seats are reserved.
Nippori is particularly useful because you can easily transfer to the JR Yamanote Line for destinations around central Tokyo.
Best for: Ueno, Nippori, and travelers connecting to the JR Yamanote Line.
2. Narita Express (N’EX) — Easiest for Tokyo, Shibuya and Shinjuku
The JR Narita Express, usually called the N’EX, connects Narita Airport directly with several major stations.
It serves destinations including Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya and Shinjuku.
The regular adult fare is ¥3,140 to Tokyo Station and ¥3,330 to Shibuya or Shinjuku.
The biggest advantage is convenience. If your destination is near one of these stations, you can avoid changing trains while carrying your luggage.
Best for: Tokyo Station, Shibuya and Shinjuku.
3. Airport Bus — Easy If You Have Large Luggage
Airport buses connect Narita Airport with many parts of Tokyo, including Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Ikebukuro and several hotel areas.
The main advantage is simple: you do not have to carry your suitcase through busy train stations.
Depending on where you are staying, a bus may take you close to your hotel.
Travel times can vary because of road traffic, so allow extra time if your schedule is tight.
Best for: Travelers with large luggage or hotels near an airport bus stop.
4. Low-Cost Bus — A Budget-Friendly Option
If you are staying around Tokyo Station or Ginza, a low-cost airport bus can be excellent value.
Low-cost buses between Narita Airport and the Tokyo/Ginza area currently cost ¥1,500 for a regular daytime fare.
They are slower than the fastest trains, but the price makes them worth considering if you are traveling on a budget.
Best for: Budget travelers heading to Tokyo Station or Ginza.
5. Taxi — Convenient, but Expensive
Taxis are available at Narita Airport, including fixed-fare airport taxis to different areas of Tokyo.
However, Narita Airport is quite far from central Tokyo, so taking a taxi is significantly more expensive than taking a train or bus.
Expressway tolls are also charged separately from the fixed fare, and late-night or early-morning surcharges may apply.
A taxi can still make sense if you are traveling as a group, have a lot of luggage, or arrive when public transportation options are limited.
Best for: Groups, lots of luggage, or travelers who prioritize door-to-door convenience.
My Recommendation
For most visitors, I would keep it simple:
Ueno or Nippori → Keisei Skyliner
Tokyo Station → Narita Express or low-cost bus
Shibuya or Shinjuku → Narita Express
Lots of luggage → Airport bus
If this is your first trip to Japan, don’t worry too much about finding the absolute fastest route. Choosing the option with fewer transfers is often much easier when you are carrying luggage.
One Important Thing to Know
Narita Airport has two railway stations.
Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station serves Terminal 1.
Narita Airport Terminal 2・3 Station serves Terminals 2 and 3.
If you arrive at Terminal 3, the railway station is located near Terminal 2, so allow a little extra time to walk there.
Also Flying Into Haneda?
If your flight arrives at Haneda Airport instead, read my guide:
How to Get From Haneda Airport to Tokyo: The Easiest Options
Last updated: September 2026
