Here's A Step-By-Step Guide on the Narita Express (N'EX) Train to Tokyo

Team Klook

Last updated 24 Jun 2024

Photo Credit: Ving N on Unsplash

Ultimate Guide for Your Fuss-Free Narita Airport Train Transfer to Tokyo City and Beyond

Whether you're a seasoned globe trotter or a first-time foreign traveller to Japan, navigating the country's expansive railway system can seem a bit daunting. But, the task becomes considerably less complicated thanks to services like the Narita Express, commonly known as N'EX or NEX.

This Narita International Airport 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 Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and 3, to major destinations like Tokyo, Shinjuku, and Shibuya, N’EX offers a seamless transportation solution for both locals and foreign tourists.

What's more, is that the N’EX train journey only takes as fast as 53 minutes from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo!

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the key features of Narita Express, its benefits, how to get from Narita to Tokyo, and how you can make the most of your Narita airport transfer experience by booking on Klook.

Step-by-step Guide on How to Catch the Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo

If you're a first-timer in Japan, navigating your way through Narita Airport to Narita Express to Tokyo can feel like you're playing a puzzle game. Luckily, we've broken the process in this step-by-step guide for you:

Go to Narita Express from Narita Airport: At Narita Airport, you need to watch out for signs that point you to N'EX. You'll find the train line at B1F of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, which is where most of the train lines are.
Use your JR Pass: After finding the Narita Express line, you can go straight to the ticket gates thanks to your JR Pass. You can pre-purchase your exchange order for the JR Pass on Klook and have it exchanged at Narita Airport at a JR Office.
Purchase Tickets: If you don't have a JR Pass on you, don't worry. You can buy your Narita Express ticket from the ticket machines or the ticket counter. You can also pre-book your Narita Express ticket on Klook to save you some headaches at the counter.
Boarding the Train: Find your train platform indicated on the departure boards. The Narita Express typically departs from Platforms 1 and 2.
Boarding Process: Wait for the train to arrive and allow passengers to disembark. Board the train and find a seat.
Seating Options: Choose between ordinary and green car (first-class) seating. If you have a Green Car ticket reservation, make sure to find a seat in the Green Car section.
Enjoy the Ride: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to Tokyo. The Narita Express offers comfortable seating and luggage storage areas.
Arrival at Tokyo Station: The Narita Express terminates at Tokyo Station. Once you arrive, follow the signs to the station exit and proceed to your accommodation in Tokyo using public transportation or other means.
Ticket Collection: Keep your ticket handy, as you may need it to exit the station at your destination.
Additional Information: Check the Narita Express timetable for departure times and plan your journey accordingly. It's also advisable to check for any service updates or changes before your trip.

Following these steps will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey on the Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo.

What is the Narita Express?

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. With its punctuality, comfort, and efficiency, N’EX has become the go-to choice for travellers seeking a smooth transition from the airport to their final destination.

Besides Narita Express, Klook also offers different options for transfers between the airport and Tokyo based on your needs. Refer to the summary below:

Travel style	business hours	Airport pick-up time to Tokyo	details
JR Narita Express (N’EX/NEX)	6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.	53 minutes	- Direct train service from Narita Airport Terminals 1, 2, and 3 to Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, or Yokohama Station, etc. - You can connect to the Shinkansen directly from Tokyo Station. To travel to every major city in Japan.
Skyliner Narita Airport Express	7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.	41 minutes	- Direct train service from Narita Airport Terminals 1, 2, and 3 on the Keisei Line to Ueno Station or Nippori Station
Airport limousine bus	6:30 a.m. until late at night	1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours	- Limousine bus service to hotels or key locations in central Tokyo and beyond. - There is also service to and from Haneda Airport. which is another important international airport in Tokyo
Private airport transfer service	24 hours	1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours	- Door-to-door transfers to various hotels Within the central Tokyo area - Suitable for families or tourists with unlimited budgets.

Purchasing JR Narita Express Tickets

Purchasing N’EX tickets is straightforward. Besides booking Japan Rail Pass, you can now book standalone tickets for N’EX trains on Klook (for JR pass users, kindly refer to the section below)!

Simply visit the page here, and input your intended departure and arrival station, plus your intended travel date to reserve your tickets. Rest assured, all tickets booked on Klook are reserved seats (i.e. you do not have to bother about making seat reservations on the spot, unlike using the JR Pass).

You may go through the ticket gates and hop on the train directly after picking up your physical train ticket from reserved seat ticket machines (the ticket vending machine in light blue) with the QR code sent to you shortly after your booking is made. We'll also send you a detailed step-by-step guide in which you may pick up tickets with ease.

Worried about flight delays? You don’t have to! Simply visit the JR ticketing office (i.e. Midori-no-madoguchi) with your Narita Express physical train tickets and ask for an amendment for free. You will be able to take the next Narita Express train with available seats.

#KlookTip: Please pick up your tickets from the ticket vending machines before visiting the JR ticketing counter. Refer to the links below for the station map of Narita Airport JR stations:

Narita Airport Terminal 1 Station

Narita Airport Terminal ⅔ Station

Likewise for city departure, just in case you want to change your Narita Express train tickets, kindly present the physical 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

Another great benefit of the Narita Express is that it's covered by the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass; The Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on a wide range of trains over a certain period). If you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), make sure to exchange your actual Narita Express train ticket at the JR East office at Narita Airport before boarding the N'EX.

There are certain Japan Rail passes that cover the Narita Express train line, including the popular Whole Japan Rail Pass, JR East Nagano / Niigata Area Pass, and the JR East Tohuku Area Pass. Compare the different Japan Rail Pass here on Klook!

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Narita Express Destinations: From Narita Airport to Central Tokyo

The Narita Express provides direct access to major stations in Central Tokyo from Narita Station. These destination stations include Tokyo Station (perfect for those staying in Marunouchi or planning to take the Shinkansen), Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Yokohama.

The services stop at Omiya, Takao, Totsuka, Ofuna, and Ikebukuro stations on specific trains as well. With such wide coverage, chances are the Narita Express will conveniently connect you to your desired destination or a short local train ride away.

While at Narita Airport, head to the Narita Express ticket counter at B1F of Terminal 1 or Termina 2. If you've already booked your tickets on Klook, all you have to do is scan the QR code from your Klook app to redeem your tickets at the ticket machines. And you're all set!

Travelling from Tokyo Station

Worth mentioning, Narita Express is the most convenient airport transportation to get to Tokyo Station.

Located at the heart of the city, Tokyo station connects travellers to the nationwide Shinkansen network (bullet train), as well as the 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).

Speaking of Shinkansen services, book your Shinkansen tickets now on Klook to major stations in Japan like Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima or Hakata!

The Narita Express Experience

From the moment you step onto the Narita Express, you'll be greeted with a sense of Japanese hospitality, efficiency, 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.

There are two seat classes for you to choose from — Green cars and Ordinary cars; basically meaning first class and second class respectively; all are reserved seating. Seats are arranged in a 2x2 configuration and are equipped with a fold-out table, cup holder, and power outlet for charging devices, plus there is even free WiFi on the train for you to stay connected during the journey.

The large windows offer panoramic views of the changing landscapes as you journey towards the city. For those travelling in Green cars, seats are usually wider with more legroom. You may also expect a less crowded train carriage.

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N’EX Timetable and 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. Check the timetable here.

N’EX Ticket Fares

A one-way N'EX ticket would usually cost JPY 3,000. This includes the standard and express train tickets (i.e. cannot be paid by IC cards). Actual train ticket prices may vary by departure dates and stations — check the actual price on Klook!

With its top-notch service, comfort, and convenience, the Narita Express stands as an essential part of the Japan travel experience for foreign travellers. It eases the transition from the moment of arrival, whisking you into the heart of Tokyo and giving you the first taste of Japan's renowned public transportation system. Remember, the Narita Express is not just a train ride — it's the beginning of your unforgettable journey through Japan!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Narita Express (N'EX)

Do you need to buy Narita Express tickets in advance?

Not necessarily. You can purchase your Narita Express tickets at the ticket vending machines and at the ticket counter at the train station. The only downside is that if you don't purchase your tickets in advance, you might not have a spot available on the next train.

That's why we recommend getting your tickets on Klook before going to Japan.

Can I bring luggage to Narita Express?

Yes, definitely! Not only that but there are tonnes of dedicated spaces for you to put your luggage on and even an overhead storage for your smaller bags and carry-on luggage.

Can I ride Narita Express without reservation?

Definitely not. You'll need both a seat reservation and your fare ticket to be able to board on the Narita Express. Otherwise, you may get bumped off by a conductor.

Is Narita Express included in JR Pass?

Yes. You can use your Whole Japan Rail Pass, Tokyo Wide Pass, JR East Nagano / Niigata Area Pass, and the JR East Tohuku Area Pass.

What happens if I miss my Narita Express train?

Since all seats are reserved on the Narita Express, you may have to purchase another ticket. We recommend asking any of the train staff inside the ticket gates for the best thing to do.