Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Japan for the first time, navigating the country’s vast railway system can feel daunting. Luckily, services like the Narita Express, also known as N’EX or NEX, make it simple and stress-free to get from Narita Airport straight into the heart of Tokyo.
This limited express train is your efficient and comfortable bridge between Narita International Airport and Central Tokyo, and even beyond. As a reliable train service connecting Narita Airport Terminals 1, 2, and 3 to major destinations like Shinjuku and Shibuya, NEX offers a seamless transportation solution for both locals and foreign tourists.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at the benefits of the Narita Express, its routes, pricing options, and how you can make the most of your Narita airport transfer experience by booking on Klook!
What is the Narita Express?
The Narita Express waiting for passengers at the station. Photo Credit: Ving N on Unsplash
The Narita Express is a dedicated limited express airport railway service operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East). Launched in 1991, it has become the preferred mode of direct transportation between Narita Airport, which is located in Chiba prefecture, and the Tokyo Metropolitan area.
Narita Express Routes and Destinations
A quick view of the Narita Express stops. Photo Credit: JR East
The Narita Express conveniently departs from all Narita Airport terminals (1, 2, and 3), connecting travelers directly to several major Tokyo area stations. These routes serve as gateways to various parts of the city and the rest of Japan:
- Tokyo Station: Connects travelers to the nationwide Shinkansen network, and other limited express regional lines, in-city metro & JR lines that will take you to every part of the city (e.g., main stations like Ginza Station, Ikebukuro Station, and Tokyo Disney Resort).
- Shinjuku Station: A busy hub serving west Tokyo and a starting point for trips headed towards Mt. Fuji.
- Shibuya Station: Famous for shopping, dining, and nightlife in Tokyo’s vibrant districts.
- Shinagawa Station: Provides access to southbound Shinkansen trains and other regional lines.
- Yokohama Station: The main station for reaching Kanagawa Prefecture and the port city of Yokohama.
The services stop at Omiya, Takao, Totsuka, Ofuna, and Ikebukuro stations on specific trains as well.
Narita Express Tickets & Prices
Depending on your travel class, these are the typical prices you can expect on the Narita Express:
- Ordinary (economy) Car fare is about ¥3,000 one-way from Narita to Tokyo.
- Green Car (First Class) tickets cost roughly ¥4,500 and give you an upgraded travel experience.
Besides booking the Japan Rail Pass, you can now book standalone NEX train tickets on Klook. To get your tickets, simply:
- Search for “Narita Express” on the Klook platform or visit Klook’s Narita Express page.
- Select your departure and arrival stations along with your travel date.
- Confirm your reserved seat for guaranteed comfort.
- Receive a QR code for easy boarding.
- All you have to do at the station is scan the QR code at the ticket gantry and head to your platform for boarding. No redemption of physical tickets required!
Narita Express Round-Trip Promotion! ✨
Flying in and out of Narita Airport? Save up to 37% when you pre-book your Narita Express tickets on Klook here!
Do note that for this promo package, you'll have to redeem physical tickets at the ticket machines using the QR code provided when you arrive at the station. Refer to the guide here for more details!
Narita Express tickets from Narita Terminal 2-3 to Shinjuku Station
When you book tickets on Klook, rest assured that all seats are reserved. We’ll also send you an easy step-by-step guide to help you board your train smoothly and start your journey hassle-free.
If you have reserved a seat on the Narita Express train but your flight is delayed, there’s no need to panic. Head over to the ticket vending machine and use the Klook QR code to redeem the base fare ticket, and then re-purchase a limited express ticket (only ¥1,700) onsite for the next NEX train you want to take.
Klook Tip: Just in case you want to change your Narita Express train tickets, kindly present the tickets at the JR ticketing office (i.e. Midori-no-madoguchi) and ask for assistance. Refer to the links below for the station map of major JR stations:
Using the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for the Narita Express
For holders of the Japan Rail Pass, the Narita Express is fully covered, including seat reservations, which come at no extra charge. This makes it an excellent choice for JR Pass users.
There are certain Japan Rail passes that cover the Narita Express train line, including the popular Whole Japan Rail Pass, JR Tokyo Wide Pass, JR East Nagano/Niigata Area Pass, and the JR East Tohoku Area Pass. You can compare the different Japan Rail Passes on Klook!
NEX Timetable & Frequency
Narita Express trains operate at regular intervals throughout the day, typically every 30 to 60 minutes. The earliest service departs from Narita Airport Terminal 1 at around 6:00 AM, while the last one leaves at around 10:00 PM.
The journey to Tokyo Station takes roughly an hour, while the travel time to Yokohama can take up to 80 minutes.
What to Expect on the Narita Express
From the moment you step onto the Narita Express, you'll be greeted with a sense of Japanese hospitality and meticulous attention to detail. The train carriages are clean, comfortable, and spacious, with designated luggage storage racks to accommodate large suitcases. They also come with number locks for extra security.
Luggage storage racks are available at the ends of each car on the Narita Express.
There are two seat classes for you to choose from — Green cars (first class) and Ordinary cars; both are reserved seating. Seats are arranged 2-by-2 with handy fold-out tables, cup holders, and power outlets to keep your devices charged. Plus, you can enjoy free WiFi to stay connected and entertained on the go.
You'll get your own designated seat in the Narita Express Ordinary Car.
The large windows offer panoramic views of the changing landscapes as you journey towards the city. For those traveling in Green cars, seats are usually wider with more legroom. You may also expect a less crowded train carriage.
Klook tip: Traveling with lots of luggage? Boarding early secures optimal luggage space and ease of seating.
Narita Express vs. Other Airport Transfers
When deciding how to get from Narita Airport to Tokyo, it’s good to weigh the benefits of the Narita Express against other available options:
Narita Express
The Narita Express stands out for its combination of comfort, speed, and convenience. It typically takes between 50 and 70 minutes to reach central Tokyo, costing around ¥3,000 one-way. For a lot of travelers, it's a no-brainer, as its station is easily accessible no matter what Narita terminal you’re in.
Business hours: 6 am to 10 pm
Keisei Skyliner
In comparison to the NEX, the Keisei Skyliner is slightly faster, taking about 40 to 55 minutes and costing roughly ¥2,500. It’s ideal for travelers heading to the Ueno or Nippori areas.
Business hours: 7 am to 10 pm
Airport Limousine Bus
The biggest perk of the Airport Limousine Bus is that it provides a direct ride to many hotels, typically taking between 70 and 120 minutes and costing around ¥3,200. This option suits travelers carrying heavy luggage who want to avoid transfers.
Business hours: 6:30 am until late at night
Taxis or Private Transfers
A taxi or private transfer offers you door-to-door convenience (taking 60 to 90 minutes), making it best for families, groups, or late-night arrivals. Their biggest drawback is that they are significantly more expensive, usually starting from ¥20,000.
Business hours: 24/7
Regular Trains
For budget-conscious travelers, regular trains like the JR Sobu Line and the Keisei Limited Express are great alternatives to the Narita Express, with the journeys costing only around ¥1,100 (Keisei Limited Express) to ¥1,340 (JR Sobu Line) one-way.
Business hours: 5 am to 12 am
🇯🇵 Tokyo Travel Essentials 🇯🇵
Top things to do in Tokyo
- Day trips: Mt Fuji Instagrammable Spots | Mt Fuji and Hakone
- Visiting multiple attractions in Tokyo? Get the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo and enjoy up to 48% savings!
Getting around
Stay connected with our Japan 4G eSIM and find the best places to stay in Tokyo — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
Why choose the Narita Express?
With its top-notch service, comfort, and convenience, the Narita Express is an essential part of the Japan travel experience for foreign travelers. It eases the transition from the moment of arrival, whisking you into Central Tokyo and giving you the first taste of Japan's renowned public transportation system.
FAQs
Which stations does Narita Express stop at?
The Narita Express stops at major stations, including Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, and Yokohama, giving travelers convenient access to key areas in Tokyo and beyond.
How much does the Narita Express cost?
A one-way ticket usually runs around ¥3,000 for the regular seats, and if you want to treat yourself, the Green Car (first class) is about ¥4,500. If you’ve got a Japan Rail Pass, you’re covered, so no extra cost there.
Is a Narita Express or Skyliner better?
It depends on where you’re going! The Narita Express is great if you want lots of space and direct rides to key spots in central Tokyo. The Skyliner is faster and a bit cheaper, but mainly serves Ueno and Nippori.
Is Narita Express worth it?
Yes, especially for travelers valuing comfort, ease-of-use, and luggage space. Plus, if you’re staying near places like Shinjuku or Shibuya, it usually beats other options for convenience.
More Japan Inspiration for You!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
