Travelers coming into Narita Airport may wonder about the best way to reach central Tokyo, and the Narita Express (N’EX) is often mentioned as one of the most common transportation options. However, is the Narita Express worth it or are there better options?
The Narita Express is a fast, comfortable, and direct train from Narita Airport to central Tokyo. While it’s pricier than some options, it’s covered by some JR Passes. It’s a convenient choice for first-time travelers, when convenience and ease of use are priorities.
Here’s a breakdown of all the key information, from how to book to alternative options, so you can decide if the Narita Express is the right fit for your trip.
What is the Narita Express (N’EX)?
The Narita Express is a direct train service operated by JR East that connects Narita International Airport with major Tokyo stations like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Yokohama. The N’EX is reliable and usually takes between 55 and 90 minutes, depending on your destination. It is one of the quickest ways to get from Narita Airport into Tokyo.
Traveling on the Narita Express is designed to be convenient and comfortable. Key amenities include:
- Wi-Fi (free on the train)
- Ample luggage space and racks for large suitcases
- Restroom facilities on board
- Spacious seating with good legroom, especially in Green Car
- Accessibility features to support those with mobility needs
Is Narita Express Reservation Only?
Is better to use seat reservations on the Narita Express, but you can also buy unreserved seats. However, unreserved and reserved seats cost the same. Plus, if there are no vacant seats when using a unreserved seat tickets, you will have to use the decks. Unreserved seat tickets can be sold even if there’s no more seats available, so there’s no point in using unreserved seats.
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When reserving seats, passengers can choose between two seating classes: Ordinary (standard) and Green Car (premium). Both classes are comfortable, but Green Car offers slightly more space and amenities.
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How to Reserve a Seat
You can reserve a seat:
- Online through JR East’s website or app before your trip
- At Narita Airport after landing (from the JR East Travel Service Centers or ticket machines)
- At major JR East stations across Japan
Reservations are easy, but during peak travel seasons, it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot.
Narita Express Costs and Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary depending on your destination:
- Narita Airport to Tokyo Station: around ¥3,070 (Ordinary), ¥3,840 (Green Car)
- Narita Airport to Shinjuku or Shibuya: around ¥3,250 (Ordinary), ¥4,020 (Green Car)
- Narita Airport to Yokohama: around ¥4,370 (Ordinary), ¥6,600 (Green Car)
Tickets can be purchased as single-use (Narita Express Ticket from Klook) or as part of passes (JR Tokyo Wide Area Pass) that offer discounts.
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Discounts and Passes Covering the N’EX
Several JR East passes cover the Narita Express, which can make it an economical choice if you plan to travel extensively within Japan. These include:
- Japan Rail Pass: Offers full coverage for the Narita Express, available for purchase by international tourists before arrival or in Japan.
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass: Covers travel on the N’EX and is ideal if you’re exploring the Kanto region.
- Narita Express Round Trip Ticket: A discounted round-trip ticket for ¥5,000 (Ordinary class), covering round-trip travel from Narita Airport to Tokyo (or other designated stations) within 14 days.
Narita Express Timetable and Frequency
The Narita Express operates twice per hour during peak times (usually between 9 am and 7 pm) and every 60 minutes otherwise, with service running from early morning until evening. Average travel times are:
- Narita Airport to Tokyo Station: around 55 minutes
- Narita Airport to Shinjuku: around 80 minutes
A timetable is available on Japan Travel by Navitime official website.
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Alternatives to Narita Express
Here’s a quick comparison of the Narita Express with other popular options:
- Keisei Skyliner: Faster for reaching Ueno or Nippori stations but may involve more transfers for other stations. You can get the Keisei Skyliner ticket from Klook or the Keisei Skyliner ticket + Tokyo Subway combo ticket to save some extra money if you are also going to use the Tokyo subway.
- Limousine Bus: Offers direct service but can be affected by Tokyo traffic, especially during rush hours. You can get your Airport Limousine ticket from Klook in advance.
- Local JR/Keisei Trains: Less expensive but slower and may require multiple transfers. Not convenient with luggage.
- Airport Shuttle Services: Good for those with more luggage or staying at specific hotels, but also subject to Tokyo traffic.
- Taxis or Private Transfers: Convenient but significantly more expensive.
Each option has unique pros and cons, but the Narita Express remains one of the fastest and most reliable choices, particularly for travelers heading to central Tokyo.
Klook.comIs the N’EX Kid and Family-Friendly?
Families will find the Narita Express a convenient option because of all the comfort it provides:
- Discounts for children: Children’s tickets are half-price (between 6-11 years old), and infants (under 5 years old) travel for free.
- Comfortable Seating: Spacious reserved seats make it easy to sit together as a family, with room to stretch out during the ride.
- Luggage Space: There’s dedicated space for storing suitcases, which is great when traveling with kids and their gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: You can bring strollers onboard, and the train’s wide aisles make it easy to navigate.
- Convenient Facilities: Restrooms, including accessible options, are available onboard.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The quiet and smooth ride can help kids rest after a long flight.
With these features, the Narita Express makes traveling between the airport and Tokyo stress-free for families!
Who Should Consider Using the N’EX?
The Narita Express is ideal for travelers who value convenience, speed, and comfort when traveling between Narita Airport and central Tokyo. It is especially useful for:
- First-time visitors who want a simple and reliable way to Tokyo
- Solo travelers or families with children
- Those staying near main stations like Tokyo or Shibuya
- Those carrying heavy luggage, thanks to designated luggage storage areas
- Travelers using the JR Pass or other passes that cover the N’EX
