How to Get from Narita Airport to Kawasaki

Quick Answer

The most efficient way to get to Kawasaki from Narita Airport is by train with one transfer. Take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Yokohama Station (90 minutes), then transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line for a short 7-minute ride to Kawasaki Station. Total travel time is 70-90 minutes, and cost is approximately 4,200 JPY. Alternative routes via Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station also work well. There are no direct trains, so at least one transfer is required.

How to Get from Narita Airport to Kawasaki by Train

There is no direct train from Narita Airport to Kawasaki, but efficient train connections with one transfer make it easy to reach Kawasaki. The two main options are: Narita Express (N'EX) to Yokohama Station + JR local train, or Keisei Skyliner to Ueno + multiple JR trains. Kawasaki is conveniently located between Tokyo and Yokohama, making it accessible from multiple transfer points.

Route	Transfer Point	Travel Time	Cost	Best For
N'EX to Yokohama + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line	Yokohama Station	70-90 minutes	~4,200 JPY	Fastest, fewest transfers
N'EX to Tokyo + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line	Tokyo Station	80-100 minutes	~3,800 JPY	N'EX to Tokyo + local train
N'EX to Shinagawa + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line	Shinagawa Station	75-95 minutes	~3,900 JPY	Alternative route
Keisei Skyliner to Ueno + JR to Kawasaki	Ueno + Tokyo Stations	90-110 minutes	~3,200 JPY	Budget option

Narita Airport to Kawasaki by Narita Express (N'EX)

The Narita Express to Kawasaki route is efficient: Take N'EX from Narita Airport to Yokohama Station (about 90 minutes), then transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (northbound toward Tokyo) for just 7 minutes to Kawasaki Station. Alternatively, take N'EX to Tokyo Station (60 minutes), then transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line (southbound toward Yokohama) for 20-25 minutes to Kawasaki. The Yokohama route is often faster for N'EX trains that go directly to Yokohama.

Via Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station

When considering whether to go via Tokyo or Shinagawa to Kawasaki, both options work well. Via Tokyo Station: N'EX to Tokyo (60 min) + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Kawasaki (20-25 min). Via Shinagawa Station: N'EX to Shinagawa (70 min) + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Kawasaki (10-15 min). Shinagawa can be less crowded than Tokyo Station for transfers. Check the N'EX schedule to see which station your train stops at.

Budget Option: Keisei Skyliner + JR Trains

For budget travelers, take the Keisei Skyliner from Narita Airport to Ueno Station (41 minutes, 2,470 JPY), then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station (5 minutes), then transfer to the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Kawasaki (20-25 minutes). Total cost is about 3,200 JPY, but requires two transfers. This is the cheapest way to reach Kawasaki by train.

Using IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo)

You can use Suica and Pasmo IC cards for the entire journey except for the reserved seat portion of N'EX. For N'EX, purchase a reserved seat ticket at the airport, then tap your IC card for base fare. For JR local trains, just tap in and out. IC cards are accepted on all trains after the initial airport express service.

Narita Airport to Kawasaki by Airport Bus

While less frequent than trains, airport buses offer direct service from Narita Airport to Kawasaki. The Airport Limousine Bus operates routes to major Kawasaki hotels and Kawasaki Station. Travel time is 90-120 minutes depending on traffic, and cost is 3,100-3,500 JPY. Buses depart from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with frequency every 60-90 minutes during peak times.

Airport Bus from Narita to Kawasaki: Key Details

• Bus Routes: Airport Limousine Bus to Kawasaki Station area and major hotels
• Frequency: Every 60-90 minutes (check current schedule)
• Operating Hours: Approximately 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Luggage: Dedicated storage under bus (typically 2 pieces free)
• Payment: Cash, credit card at airport counters
• Stops: Kawasaki Station East Exit, selected hotels in Kawasaki area

Why Choose the Airport Bus to Kawasaki?

The airport bus to Kawasaki is ideal for travelers with heavy luggage who don't want to navigate train transfers, or those whose hotel is near a bus stop. Buses are comfortable with restrooms on some coaches. For those arriving late night or early morning, check schedules as service may be limited. Note that buses are subject to traffic delays, especially during rush hours on the Tokyo Bay route.

Taxi & Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Kawasaki

Narita Airport to Kawasaki Taxi

Taking a taxi from Narita Airport to Kawasaki offers door-to-door convenience. The distance is approximately 80 km (50 miles), with travel time of 70-90 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi cost ranges from 18,000 to 25,000 JPY (approximately $120-170 USD) for regular taxis, plus highway tolls (around 3,000 JPY). This option is most cost-effective for groups of 3-4 people splitting the fare.

Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Kawasaki

Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with English-speaking driver. Prices are similar to taxis (20,000-30,000 JPY) but offer fixed rates, meet-and-greet service, and larger vehicles for groups or extra luggage. You can book online in advance. This is the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families, those with heavy luggage, or arrivals after midnight when train options are limited.

Is a Taxi Worth It to Kawasaki?

For solo travelers: No (train is 3,000-4,000 JPY vs taxi 18,000+ JPY). For 2 people: Possibly if you value convenience and can split the cost. For 3-4 people: Usually yes, as splitting makes it comparable to train tickets. For late night arrivals after midnight when trains have stopped: Often the only practical option besides waiting for morning trains. Kawasaki's location between Tokyo and Yokohama makes taxi fares slightly lower than going all the way to central Tokyo.

Narita Airport to Kawasaki Route Map

The map below shows the travel routes from Narita International Airport to Kawasaki. Train routes typically go via Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line. Highway routes for buses/taxis use the Higashi-Kanto Expressway and Metropolitan Expressway.

The distance from Narita Airport to Kawasaki is approximately 80 km (50 miles) by road. Train routes are slightly shorter but require transfers. Kawasaki's location between Tokyo and Yokohama makes it a convenient stop with good transportation connections to both cities.

Narita Airport to Kawasaki: Ticketing & Costs

Narita Express Ticket to Kawasaki Area

The Narita Express ticket covers the journey from Narita Airport to Yokohama, Tokyo, or Shinagawa. You'll need to purchase an additional ticket or use your IC card for the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line portion to Kawasaki. Consider the N'EX round-trip discount ticket if you're returning to Narita from the Tokyo/Yokohama area.

JR Train Ticket from Narita to Kawasaki

For the JR train ticket from Narita to Kawasaki, you can purchase separate tickets or use an IC card. If using N'EX, buy the N'EX ticket at the airport (includes reserved seat), then use IC card or buy separate ticket for the JR local train portion. For budget route (Keisei Skyliner + JR), purchase Skyliner ticket and use IC card for JR portions.

IC Card Usage (Suica/Pasmo)

IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are highly recommended. You can use them for the JR local train portions after the airport express service. For N'EX, purchase a reserved seat ticket at the airport, then tap your IC card for the base fare. For JR Keihin-Tohoku Line and other local trains, just tap in and out. IC cards are widely accepted on all trains in the Tokyo metropolitan area.

Traveler Experience: Getting to Kawasaki from Narita

Traveling from Narita Airport to Kawasaki is straightforward with good train connections. Most travelers find the N'EX to Yokohama + JR Keihin-Tohoku Line route efficient. Kawasaki Station is well-organized with clear signs in English and Japanese. First-time visitors should allow extra time for the transfer at Yokohama or Tokyo Station, both of which are large but well-signed. Those with heavy luggage may prefer the airport bus for a direct, no-transfer option, though trains have luggage storage areas. Late night arrivals after 9 PM may find limited train options and should consider a private transfer or overnight stay near the airport. Kawasaki serves as a convenient base between Tokyo and Yokohama, with good local transportation connections once you arrive.

Practical Tips & Advice for Narita to Kawasaki

• With luggage: N'EX trains have overhead racks and dedicated areas for large suitcases. Airport bus may be easier if you have multiple heavy bags.
• First-time visitor tip: N'EX to Yokohama then JR to Kawasaki is the simplest route with only one transfer.
• Late night travel: Last N'EX departs around 9:30 PM. If arriving later, consider airport hotel or pre-booked private transfer.
• Early morning arrivals: First N'EX departs around 7:30 AM. Keisei Skyliner starts earlier (around 6:00 AM).
• With kids: Taxi/private transfer is easiest. Trains are manageable but transfers with strollers can be challenging during rush hours.
• Cost-saving tip: Keisei Skyliner + JR route is cheapest. Consider Suica/Pasmo card for seamless transfers.
• Time-saving tip: N'EX to Yokohama + JR is fastest train route. Check N'EX schedule for direct Yokohama trains.
• Group travel: 3-4 people: Taxi may be cost-effective (split 18,000-25,000 JPY). 4+ people: Consider multiple taxis or pre-booked van.
• Buying tickets: N'EX/Keisei tickets at airport stations. Bus tickets at airport bus counters. IC cards at airport vending machines.
• Weekend vs weekday: Friday evening/Sunday evening traffic is heaviest - add 30+ minutes for bus/taxi travel time.
• Hotel location: Kawasaki Station is the main hub. If your hotel is near the station, train is convenient. If farther, consider taxi from station or direct bus.
• Return trip: From Kawasaki to Narita, reverse the route: JR to Yokohama/Tokyo + N'EX to airport. Allow 2.5-3 hours total.
• Mobile apps: Use "Japan Travel" app for train schedules, "Google Maps" for navigation, "Japan Official Travel App" for general info.

Frequently Asked Questions: Narita Airport to Kawasaki