Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport: Tickets, Routes, Timetable & More

Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering about the best way to get from Narita Airport to central Tokyo? The Narita Airport Express is one of the most convenient and comfortable options for travelers arriving at Narita Airport and heading into Tokyo. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this premium train service, from routes and travel times to ticket information and onboard amenities.

Overview of Narita Airport Express

What Is the Narita Express (N'EX)?

The Narita Express is a limited express train operated by JR East. While not classified as a high-speed train like the Shinkansen, it offers direct and efficient connections between Narita International Airport and major stations in the Tokyo metropolitan area, including Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Yokohama, and other destinations.

Known for its reliability, comfort, and convenience, this train is specifically designed to cater to international travelers arriving at and departing from Narita Airport, offering direct access to and from Narita Airport terminals.

Benefits of Taking the Narita Express

The Narita Express offers several advantages over other transportation options:

• Fast & Direct: Reach central Tokyo in about 60 minutes with limited stops—no transfers needed.
• Comfortable Ride: Relax with spacious seats, luggage space, and clean onboard facilities.
• Easy for Visitors: Multilingual signs and announcements help international travelers navigate with confidence.

Narita Express vs Skyliner: Key Differences

While both the Narita Express and the Keisei Skyliner connect Narita Airport to central Tokyo, their services differ in terms of speed, stations served, and convenience for Narita Airport users.

The Narita Express is ideal if your final destination is Tokyo Station, western Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya), or Yokohama. The Skyliner may be preferable if you're heading to eastern Tokyo (Ueno area) or need a slightly faster service.

Routes, Stations, and Travel Time

Route Map and Coverage

The Narita Express network connects Narita Airport with major stations in Tokyo and neighboring prefectures, making it ideal for travelers using Narita Airport as their international entry point. The train splits at Tokyo Station, with some carriages continuing to Yokohama/Ofuna and others to Shinjuku/Ikebukuro/Omiya, providing extensive coverage of the metropolitan area.

From Narita Airport to Tokyo Station

The Narita Express takes about 60 minutes to reach Tokyo Station. It’s the most direct route to central Tokyo, including the Imperial Palace and Marunouchi business district. From here, you can easily transfer to JR lines, the Metro, or the Shinkansen.

From Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station

Reaching Shinjuku by Narita Express takes around 75–90 minutes. As Tokyo’s major commercial and entertainment hub, Shinjuku offers easy access to hotels, shopping, and top attractions.

From Narita Airport to Shibuya Station

The ride to Shibuya takes about 75–80 minutes. This area is known for its iconic crossing, fashion, and youth culture—ideal for visitors staying in Shibuya, Harajuku, or Ebisu.

List of All Narita Express Stops

The Narita Express serves the following stations:

• Narita Airport Terminal 1
• Narita Airport Terminal 2 and 3
• Chiba (some services)
• Tokyo
• Shinagawa
• Shibuya
• Shinjuku
• Ikebukuro
• Omiya (some services)
• Yokohama (some services)
• Ofuna (some services)

Travel Time Overview for Major Destinations

Here's a quick reference guide for approximate travel times from Narita Airport:

• Tokyo Station: 60 minutes
• Shinagawa: 70 minutes
• Shibuya: 75-80 minutes
• Shinjuku: 75-90 minutes
• Ikebukuro: 85-95 minutes
• Yokohama: 85-100 minutes

Travel times may vary slightly depending on the specific train service and time of day.

Timetables and Train Frequency

First and Last Trains from Narita Airport

The Narita Express service begins early in the morning and continues until evening. The first train from Narita Airport typically departs around 8:30 AM, while the last train leaves around 9:00 PM.

For the most up-to-date information, it's advisable to check the official timetable or book your tickets through a reliable service like Japan Bullet Train.

How Often Does Narita Express Run?

The Narita Express operates with a frequency of approximately one to two trains per hour during the day. During peak travel times, services may be more frequent to accommodate the high volume of travelers. The schedule is designed to align with international flight arrivals and departures at Narita Airport.

Tickets, Prices, and Seat Reservations

How Much Does the Narita Express Cost?

The Narita Express requires both a base fare ticket and a limited express surcharge. The total cost depends on your destination and seat class, but fares typically range from approximately ¥3,000 to ¥5,000.

For international tourists, there are also discounted options such as the N'EX Tokyo Round Trip Ticket, which offers significant savings compared to purchasing regular one-way tickets.

Tickets can be conveniently booked in multiple languages through the Japan Bullet Train service.

Do You Need to Reserve a Seat?

Yes, seat reservations are mandatory for the Narita Express. All passengers must have both a base fare ticket and a seat reservation. This ensures every traveler has a guaranteed seat for their journey. Seat reservations can be made at the time of ticket purchase.

Can You Use a JR Pass on the Narita Express?

Yes, the JR Pass fully covers travel on the Narita Express, including both the base fare and seat reservation. This makes the JR Pass an excellent value for tourists planning to use the Narita Express and travel elsewhere in Japan by train. However, you still need to obtain a seat reservation ticket (at no additional cost) before boarding.

Can You Use Suica or IC Cards?

You can use Suica and other IC cards to pay the base fare for the Narita Express. However, since all seats are reserved, you must also purchase a limited express seat reservation separately at a ticketing machine or JR counter. IC cards alone are not sufficient to board the Narita Express.

Onboard Facilities and Luggage Space

Seat Types and Comfort

The Narita Express offers two classes of service: Ordinary Car and Green Car.

• Ordinary Car (standard class) features reclining seats in a 2+2 configuration with sufficient legroom, adjustable headrests, footrests, and tray tables—ideal for a comfortable journey after a flight.
• Green Car (First Class) offers a more luxurious travel experience, with significantly wider seat pitch (about 1,160mm compared to 1,020mm in Standard Class), genuine leather seats with deeper recline, adjustable headrests, large sliding tables suitable for laptop use, and footrests for extra comfort.

The Green Car offers a quieter, more refined cabin atmosphere with fewer passengers, warm lighting, carpeted floors, and extra amenities like power outlets and free Wi-Fi—perfect for those seeking comfort, privacy, or productivity during the ride.

Luggage Storage Options

Understanding that international travelers often have substantial luggage, the Narita Express provides several storage options:

• Overhead shelves: Suitable for smaller items and carry-on bags
• Dedicated luggage spaces: Located at the ends of each car for larger suitcases
• Space between seat rows: Designed to accommodate medium-sized luggage

There are no luggage weight restrictions, but passengers are expected to be able to handle their own bags when boarding and alighting.

Wi-Fi, Restrooms, and Other Amenities

The Narita Express is equipped with various amenities to enhance your journey:

• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary JR-EAST FREE Wi-Fi is available in all cars. However, connectivity may be unstable in tunnels or remote areas. For consistent internet access during your stay in Japan, we recommend renting a Pocket Wi-Fi from Japan Wireless or using a Japan Wireless eSIM for seamless internet access.
• Power outlets: Power outlets (AC 100V) are installed at every seat in both Standard and Green Cars, making it easy to charge your devices.
• Restrooms: Modern and clean restrooms, including multipurpose ones, are available in several cars per trainset—not in every car.
• Luggage storage: Large luggage spaces are located near the car entrances. Some of these have dial locks for added security, but not all are lockable. Keep valuables with you at all times.
• Information displays: Multilingual digital screens show the next station and travel updates in Japanese, English, Korean and Chinese.

For more detailed information on seating and onboard facilities, please refer to the official JR East website.

Narita Express Platform Locations at Narita Terminals

The Narita Express is accessible from Terminal 1 and from Terminals 2 and 3 at Narita Airport. Each terminal has its own train station directly connected to the arrival halls:

• Terminal 1: The Narita Express station is located in the basement level (B1F), accessible via escalators and elevators from the arrival lobby.
• Terminal 2 and 3: The station is also on the basement level, connected directly to both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 via pedestrian walkways.

Plan Your Visit

If you're flying into Narita Airport and heading to central Tokyo, the Narita Express is one of the most reliable and comfortable ways to begin your journey. With direct access from airport terminals, multilingual support, and guaranteed reserved seating, Narita Express eliminates the stress of navigating unfamiliar train systems after a long flight.

To make your arrival at Narita Airport as smooth as possible, we recommend booking your tickets in advance through Japan Bullet Train. The platform supports multiple languages and allows you to secure your seat before you land in Japan—no need to wait in line at the station. Whether you're heading to Tokyo, Shinjuku, or Shibuya, start your trip with peace of mind by choosing the Narita Express and reserving online.