Best Ways to Get from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo
Ueno / Asakusa / Nippori / Ikebukuro Edition
(Traveling to Ginza, Tokyo Station, Shinagawa, Shibuya, or Shinjuku? Check the previous article.)
Choosing the Right Airport for Tokyo Travel
When you search for flights to Tokyo, you’ll notice two major airports: Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita Airport (NRT).
Haneda Airport is located very close to central Tokyo and offers excellent access to the city. However, it mainly serves domestic flights, so availability depends on your route and airline.
Narita Airport, on the other hand, handles a large number of international flights and serves as the main gateway for overseas visitors.
That said, Narita is not actually in Tokyo—it’s located in Chiba Prefecture. As a result, getting from Narita to central Tokyo usually takes longer and requires more planning.
If your budget allows and your flight options permit, Haneda Airport is strongly recommended for a smoother arrival experience.
Transportation Options from Narita Airport to Tokyo
(Ueno / Asakusa / Nippori / Ikebukuro Areas)
Below is a practical comparison of each option, with clear pros and cons to help you choose what fits your travel style best.
🚆 Train: Keisei Access Express + Local Train
Pros
- Reaches central Tokyo in about 1.5 hours
- Runs every 20 minutes
- Most affordable way to reach the city
Cons
- Ticket machines can be confusing for first-time visitors
- During peak hours, seating is not guaranteed
- Depending on your hotel, you may need additional subway transfers with luggage
Price: approx. ¥2,000 (~USD 14)
👉Check the price
🚆 Train: Keisei Skyliner + Local Train
Pros
- Arrives in about 1 hour
- Runs every 20 minutes
- Reserved seating guaranteed, making it more comfortable after a long flight
Cons
- Ticket purchase at the airport can be complex
- Seats may sell out during busy seasons
- Final transfer may still be required depending on hotel location
Price: approx. ¥3,000 (~USD 20)
🚌 Airport Bus (Ticket Counter or Online Booking)
Pros
- Affordable and stress-free seating
- Drop-off locations are more specific than trains
- Easy option for travelers with luggage
Cons
- Limited number of departures
- Can take around 2 hours, depending on traffic
- Some hotels still require a short train or taxi transfer
Price: ¥1,000–¥3,500 (USD 7–24)
🚕 Taxi (Available Outside the Airport)
Pros
- Direct transfer to your hotel
Cons
- Very expensive
- Risk of overcharging
- Travel time can exceed 2 hours
- Extra fees or delays if you have large luggage
Price: ¥25,000–¥40,000 (USD 170–270)
🚘 Private Airport Transfer (Pre-booked Online)
Pros
- Door-to-door service with no transfers
- Ideal for travelers with multiple or large suitcases
- No risk of being refused due to luggage
Cons
- Higher cost than public transport
- Travel time: approx. 1.5–2 hours
Price: ¥8,000–¥30,000 (USD 53–200)
✅ Our Recommendation
If you value comfort, efficiency, and a smooth start to your stay, a private airport transfer is the best option.
Tokyo’s public transportation system is excellent—but complex. After a long flight, navigating multiple lines with luggage can be exhausting.
👉 If your hotel is within a 5-minute walk of Ueno, Asakusa, or Nippori Station, trains or buses can still be a smart and budget-friendly choice.
Save on Private Transfers
If you’re looking for a more affordable private transfer, we recommend “Near Me.”
It’s a shared ride service that drops you directly in front of your hotel at a lower price than standard private cars.
Check availability and pricing via the link below👇
Check Bus Availability & Prices
For the latest airport bus schedules and seat availability,
👉 use the official booking link here.
