Narita International Airport (NRT) is located about 60 km east of central Tokyo. Despite the distance, getting into the city is straightforward, with options to fit every budget and schedule. Here is exactly how to do it.

Narita Express (N’EX)

The Narita Express is operated by JR East and is the most comfortable train option. It runs directly to Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Yokohama.

• Time: ~53 minutes to Tokyo Station
• Price: ¥3,070 (ordinary car, reserved seat)
• Pros: Spacious seats, luggage space, no transfers, covered by JR Pass
• Cons: More expensive than other trains; less frequent than the Skyliner

If you have a JR Pass, the N’EX is a no-brainer. Reserve your seat at the JR ticket counter after landing.

Keisei Skyliner

The Skyliner is the fastest option, racing to Ueno and Nippori stations at 160 km/h.

• Time: ~36 minutes to Nippori; ~41 minutes to Ueno
• Price: ¥2,520
• Pros: Fastest, frequent departures, connects well to the Yamanote Line
• Cons: Arrives at Ueno/Nippori, which may require a transfer depending on your hotel

Buy a round-trip Skyliner ticket online for a small discount.

Limousine Bus

If you have heavy luggage or just want door-to-door convenience, the Airport Limousine Bus drops you at major hotels and stations.

• Time: 60–90 minutes depending on traffic
• Price: ¥3,600
• Pros: No transfers; staff handle your bags; comfortable seats
• Cons: Subject to Tokyo traffic; slower than trains

Budget Option: Access Narita / Keisei Limited Express

For travelers on a tight budget, the Keisei Limited Express or Access Narita bus gets you into the city for under ¥1,500. The trade-off is time — expect 70–90 minutes.

Taxi / Private Transfer

A taxi to central Tokyo costs ¥25,000–30,000 and takes 60–90 minutes. Fixed-rate private vans are available for groups. This is only worth it if you are exhausted, traveling with kids, or arriving very late.

Our Recommendation

• With JR Pass: Take the Narita Express.
• Without JR Pass, staying near Ueno/Asakusa: Take the Skyliner.
• With heavy luggage: Take the Limousine Bus.
• On a budget: Take the Keisei Limited Express.