Quick Answer
The most efficient way to travel from Narita Airport to Kamakura is by train with one transfer. Take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station, then transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line directly to Kamakura Station. Total travel time is 90-120 minutes, and cost is approximately 4,000-5,000 JPY. There are no direct trains or buses, so at least one transfer is required.
How to Get from Narita Airport to Kamakura by Train
There is no direct train from Narita Airport to Kamakura, but the train is still the fastest and most reliable option. You'll need to make at least one transfer, typically at Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station. The two main routes are via the Narita Express (N'EX) with transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line or JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line.
| Route | Transfers | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N'EX to Tokyo Sta + JR Yokosuka Line | 1 transfer at Tokyo | 115-130 min | ~4,800 JPY | Fastest overall |
| N'EX to Yokohama Sta + JR Yokosuka Line | 1 transfer at Yokohama | 110-125 min | ~4,500 JPY | Avoiding central Tokyo |
| Keisei Skyliner to Nippori + JR to Tokyo + JR Yokosuka | 2 transfers | 130-150 min | ~3,800 JPY | Budget option |
| N'EX to Ofuna + JR Yokosuka Line | 1 transfer at Ofuna | 120-140 min | ~4,600 JPY | Alternative route |
Narita Airport to Kamakura by JR and Narita Express
The Narita Express to Kamakura route is the most popular: Board the N'EX at Narita Airport Terminal 1 or 2, ride to either Tokyo Station (60 min) or Yokohama Station (90 min), then transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line heading to Kurihama. Kamakura is about 55 minutes from Tokyo Station or 25 minutes from Yokohama Station.
Transfer at Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station
Both transfer at Tokyo Station and transfer at Yokohama Station are straightforward. At Tokyo Station, follow signs to the JR Keiyo Line/Yokosuka Line platforms (usually platforms 1-4). At Yokohama Station, the Yokosuka Line departs from platforms near the central gates. Allow 10-15 minutes for transfer time, especially with luggage.
Using IC Cards (Suica/Pasmo)
You can use Suica and Pasmo IC cards for the entire journey. Tap in at Narita Airport, tap out at your transfer station, then tap in again for the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura. The N'EX requires a reserved seat ticket in addition to base fare, which can be purchased at the airport or online.
Narita Airport to Kamakura Bus
There is no direct limousine bus from Narita Airport to Kamakura. However, you can take an Airport Limousine Bus to Yokohama City Air Terminal (YCAT) or nearby locations, then transfer to a train to Kamakura. The bus from Narita to Yokohama takes 90-120 minutes depending on traffic, costs 3,600 JPY, then you need to take the JR Negishi Line to Yokohama Station and transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura (additional 30-40 minutes). Total travel time is 120-160 minutes, and cost is approximately 4,200-4,500 JPY. This option is less reliable due to traffic but can be comfortable if you have heavy luggage for the first leg.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Narita to Kamakura
Narita Airport to Kamakura Taxi
Taking a taxi from Narita Airport to Kamakura is a door-to-door option but expensive. The distance is approximately 100 km (62 miles), taking 90-120 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi cost ranges from 30,000 to 45,000 JPY (approximately $200-300 USD). This option may be worth considering for groups of 3-4 people splitting the cost, those with heavy luggage, or late-night arrivals when trains have stopped running.
Private Transfer Narita Airport to Kamakura
Private transfer services offer a fixed rate, English-speaking drivers, and can be booked in advance online. Prices are similar to taxis (30,000-50,000 JPY) but provide certainty and sometimes larger vehicles for groups or extra luggage. This is the most convenient but most expensive way to get to Kamakura directly from the airport.
Narita Airport to Kamakura Route Map
The map below shows the travel routes from Narita International Airport to Kamakura, including train lines via Tokyo Station and Yokohama Station, highway routes for buses/taxis, and the overall distance (approximately 100 km).
The most common train route follows the Narita Express to Tokyo or Yokohama, then the JR Yokosuka Line south to Kamakura. By car from Narita Airport to Kamakura, the route typically uses the Higashi-Kanto Expressway and Yokohama-Yokosuka Road.
Narita Airport to Kamakura: Ticketing & Costs
| Transport Option | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train: N'EX + JR Yokosuka Line | 90-120 min | 4,000-5,000 JPY | 1 (Tokyo/Yokohama) | Most travelers, fastest |
| Train: Keisei + JR (budget) | 130-150 min | 2,800-3,500 JPY | 2-3 | Budget travelers |
| Bus + Train via Yokohama | 120-160 min | 4,200-4,500 JPY | 2+ | Heavy luggage first leg |
| Taxi / Private Car | 90-120 min | 30,000-45,000 JPY | 0 | Groups, late night, luxury |
Narita Express Ticket to Kamakura Area
The Narita Express ticket covers the journey from Narita Airport to Tokyo/Yokohama. You'll need to purchase an additional ticket or use your IC card for the JR Yokosuka Line portion to Kamakura. Consider the N'EX round-trip discount ticket if you're returning to Narita from the Tokyo area (not valid from Kamakura itself).
IC Card Usage (Suica/Pasmo)
IC cards like Suica and Pasmo are highly recommended. You can use them for the entire journey except for the reserved seat portion of the N'EX. For N'EX, purchase a reserved seat ticket at the airport, then tap your IC card for the base fare. For regular JR trains, just tap in and out.
Traveler Experience: Getting to Kamakura from Narita
Most travelers find the train journey from Narita Airport to Kamakura straightforward but appreciate knowing about the transfer process in advance. First-time visitors should allow extra time for transfers, especially at large stations like Tokyo Station. Those with luggage appreciate that N'EX trains have dedicated 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. Traveling with kids is manageable on trains, but during peak hours it can be crowded. Many travelers choose to go directly to Kamakura to start their trip, while others prefer to settle in Tokyo first and visit Kamakura as a day trip with lighter bags.
Practical Tips & Advice for Narita to Kamakura
- Luggage on Japanese trains: N'EX has overhead racks and dedicated areas for large suitcases. Local JR trains may be crowded during rush hours with limited space for luggage.
- Platform transfer in Japan: Allow 10-15 minutes for transfers at major stations. Follow color-coded signs (JR Yokosuka Line is typically orange/blue).
- First-time visitor tip: Consider buying a N'EX ticket at the airport counter where staff can explain the transfer and provide a map.
- Late night travel: Last N'EX departs around 9:30 PM. If arriving later, consider airport hotel or pre-booked private transfer.
- With heavy luggage: The bus+train option can be easier for the first leg, as buses have more luggage space.
- Distance consideration: The 100 km journey is substantial. If you're jet-lagged, consider breaking the journey in Tokyo or Yokohama.
- Seasonal advice: Summer weekends and autumn foliage season see more tourists. Book N'EX seats in advance during peak seasons.
- Alternative airports: If you have a choice, Kamakura is much closer to Haneda Airport (60-75 minutes by train).
Map showing the train route from Narita Airport to Kamakura, typically via Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station on the JR Yokosuka Line.
Frequently Asked Questions: Narita Airport to Kamakura
What is the best way to get from Narita Airport to Kamakura?
The best way for most travelers is by train: Take the Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo Station or Yokohama Station, then transfer to the JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura. This balances speed, cost, and convenience with a total travel time of 90-120 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Narita Airport to Kamakura?
No, there is no direct train service. You must transfer at least once, typically at Tokyo Station, Yokohama Station, or Ofuna Station to reach Kamakura.
How many transfers from Narita Airport to Kamakura?
Usually 1-2 transfers. The most efficient route requires just one transfer: N'EX to Tokyo/Yokohama, then JR Yokosuka Line to Kamakura. Budget routes with local trains may require 2-3 transfers.
Is Kamakura closer to Narita or Haneda?
Kamakura is significantly closer to Haneda Airport (about 60-75 minutes by train vs. 90-120 minutes from Narita). However, Narita has more international flights, so many travelers still use this route.
Should I go to Kamakura from Narita Airport directly?
If Kamakura is your first destination and you want to maximize time there, going directly makes sense. However, if you have heavy luggage or arrive late, consider staying in Tokyo/Yokohama first, then visiting Kamakura as a day trip.
How long does it take from Narita Airport to Kamakura?
Total travel time ranges from 90 minutes (fastest train with good connections) to 160 minutes (bus+train with traffic or local trains). Average is 100-120 minutes including transfer time.
What is the cheapest way from Narita Airport to Kamakura?
The cheapest option is local trains (Keisei Line to Nippori, then JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo, then JR Yokosuka Line) for about 2,800-3,200 JPY, but it takes 130-150 minutes with multiple transfers.
Can I use Suica/Pasmo for the entire journey?
Yes, except for the reserved seat on N'EX. Tap your IC card for base fare, purchase a separate reserved seat ticket for N'EX. For regular JR trains, just tap in and out with your IC card.
What if I arrive at Narita Airport after 10 PM?
Last N'EX departs around 9:30 PM. For late night arrivals after 10 PM, options are limited: take a taxi/private transfer (expensive), stay at an airport hotel, or take the last train to Tokyo and stay there overnight.
Is the JR Yokosuka Line easy to find at Tokyo Station?
Yes, follow signs for the JR Keiyo/Yokosuka Line (typically platforms 1-4 on the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station). Allow 10-15 minutes to navigate the station, especially with luggage.