Introduction
Visiting Tokyo soon? Whether you land at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND), navigating your way into the city center can be easy—if you know the right options. Here’s a complete breakdown of the best ways to reach central Tokyo from both airports, including future affiliate-friendly options.
🛬 From Narita Airport (NRT)
🚅 1. Narita Express (N’EX)
- To: Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, Yokohama
- Time: Approx. 60 mins
- Cost: ~¥3,250 one-way
- Best for: Travelers with JR Pass (can be used)
Smooth ride, luggage space, reserved seats.
🚐 2. Airport Limousine Bus
- To: Major hotels, Shinjuku, Roppongi, Tokyo Disney Resort
- Time: 90–120 mins
- Cost: ¥3,200–¥3,600
Direct to hotel doors. Great for first-timers with lots of bags.
🚃 3. Keisei Skyliner
- To: Ueno, Nippori
- Time: 40–50 mins
- Cost: ~¥2,570
Fastest route to northeast Tokyo. No JR Pass support.
🚖 4. Taxi or Private Transfer
- Time: 60–90 mins
- Cost: ¥25,000+
Door-to-door, but costly. Ideal for groups or late arrivals.
🛬 From Haneda Airport (HND)
🚄 1. Tokyo Monorail + JR Yamanote Line
- To: Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station via Hamamatsucho
- Time: ~30 mins
- Cost: ~¥500–¥700
Cheap, fast, covered by JR Pass.
🚇 2. Keikyu Line + Subway Transfer
- To: Asakusa, Ginza, Shibuya
- Time: ~30–45 mins
- Cost: ~¥500
Convenient for east/south Tokyo areas.
🚐 3. Airport Limousine Bus
- To: Hotels, major hubs
- Time: 30–60 mins
- Cost: ¥1,300–¥1,500
Easy access with no transfers.
🚖 4. Taxi / Private Transfer
- Time: ~30–60 mins
- Cost: ¥8,000–¥15,000
Convenient, especially at night.
💼 Recommended for…
| Traveler Type | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Budget-conscious | Keisei Skyliner / Keikyu Line |
| Family with luggage | Limousine Bus / Taxi |
| JR Pass users | Narita Express / Tokyo Monorail |
| Arriving late at night | Taxi / Private Transfer |
👀 Pro Tips
- Buy your IC Card (Suica or Pasmo) at the airport to save time
- Use Google Maps or Navitime for accurate train transfers
- Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) if possible
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Guided 500+ guests from more than 30 countries.
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All information in this article is based on real on-the-ground guiding experience in Tokyo.