Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport (NRT) is by train, specifically the Keikyu Line + Narita Express (N'EX) combination. The total journey takes approximately 90-100 minutes and costs around ¥3,250-¥3,500 per person. For budget travelers, the Airport Limousine Bus is the cheapest comfortable option at about ¥1,300-¥1,500 and takes 90-120 minutes, depending on traffic. There is no direct train; all options require at least one transfer, typically at Shimbashi or Tokyo Station.
Taking the Train from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport
Trains are the most recommended, reliable, and frequent option. The journey involves two main segments: getting from Tokyo Tower to a major rail hub, and then taking an express train to the airport.
Step-by-Step: The Recommended Route (Keikyu + N'EX)
- Walk to Onarimon Station (Oedo Line): A 5-minute walk from Tokyo Tower.
- Take the Toei Oedo Line to Daimon Station (1 stop).
- Transfer to Keikyu Main Line at Daimon: Walk across the platform.
- Take Keikyu Line to Shinagawa Station (3 stops).
- Transfer to the Narita Express (N'EX) at Shinagawa. This is a reserved-seat, comfortable express train that goes directly to Narita Airport Terminal 1 & 2/3. Travel time on N'EX: ~60 minutes.
Total Time: 90-100 mins. Total Cost: ~¥3,500 (Keikyu: ¥180 + N'EX: ¥3,070). The N'EX ticket is a reserved seat.
Alternative & Budget Train Route (JR Lines)
For JR Pass holders or those seeking a slightly cheaper (but often more crowded) option:
- Walk to Hamamatsucho Station (JR Yamanote Line): A 10-12 minute walk from Tokyo Tower.
- Take JR Yamanote Line to Tokyo Station (2 stops).
- Transfer to the Keisei Skyliner or JR Narita Express at Tokyo Station.
- Keisei Skyliner: Faster (36 mins to NRT), costs ¥2,570 from Keisei-Ueno. You must take the Yamanote Line one more stop to Ueno to board.
- JR Sobu Line Rapid (Rapid Airport Narita): Cheaper (~¥1,340), but slower (80-90 mins) and non-reserved. Covered by the JR Pass.
Train Types & Comparison
| Train Service | Depart From | Travel Time to NRT | Approx. Cost (from hub) | Reservation | JR Pass Valid? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Narita Express (N'EX) | Shinagawa, Tokyo, etc. | ~60 min | ¥3,070 | Required | Yes (Free) | Comfort, direct terminal access, included luggage space. |
| Keisei Skyliner | Keisei-Ueno | ~36 min | ¥2,570 | Recommended | No | Absolute speed from Ueno area. |
| JR Sobu Line Rapid | Tokyo Station | ~80-90 min | ¥1,340 | Not Required | Yes (Free) | Budget travelers with a JR Pass. |
JR Pass Tip: If you have a Japan Rail Pass, the N'EX or JR Sobu Line Rapid is free. This makes the train the most cost-effective choice for pass holders.
Is Flying from Tokyo to Narita Airport a Good Idea?
While seemingly counterintuitive, some consider flying from Tokyo's closer airport (Haneda - HND) to Narita (NRT). We generally do NOT recommend this. Here’s a detailed analysis comparing "door-to-door" times.
Door-to-Door Time Breakdown: Flight vs. Direct Train
- Flight from Haneda (HND) to Narita (NRT):
- Tokyo Tower to Haneda Airport: 45-60 mins (Train/Monorail).
- Check-in & Security at HND: 90 mins before domestic flight.
- Flight Time: ~45 minutes.
- Disembark & Transit at NRT: 20-30 minutes.
- Total Estimated Time: 3.5 to 4+ hours.
- Approx. Cost: ¥8,000 - ¥15,000+ one-way.
- Direct Train (e.g., N'EX from Shinagawa):
- Tokyo Tower to Shinagawa Station: 25-30 mins.
- Wait for N'EX: ~15-20 mins.
- N'EX Train to NRT: 60 mins.
- Total Estimated Time: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Verdict: The train is significantly faster, cheaper, and more reliable for this transfer. Flying is only viable if you have a long layover and wish to leave the airport, or if your ticket is already booked as a multi-city itinerary. Data Source: Haneda Airport & Narita Airport official sites.
Taking the Airport Bus: The Economical & Direct Choice
The Airport Limousine Bus provides a comfortable, direct service to Narita Airport from major hotels and stations. It's the best budget-friendly option if you have heavy luggage.
How to Take the Bus from Tokyo Tower
There is no direct bus stop at Tokyo Tower. The closest and most convenient pickup point is:
- Tokyo City Air Terminal (T-CAT) in Hakozaki: A 15-minute taxi ride (¥1,500-2,000) or a 25-minute train/bus ride from Tokyo Tower. Buses from T-CAT to NRT take about 70-90 minutes.
- From Major Hotels: Check if your hotel is on the Limousine Bus route (e.g., hotels in Shinagawa, Shimbashi).
Bus Options & Key Details
| Bus Type | Key Features | Travel Time | Cost | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Limousine Bus (Daytime) | Comfortable seats, luggage compartments, direct to terminals. Subject to traffic delays. | 90-120 mins | ¥1,300 - ¥1,500 | Highly recommended, especially during peak season. |
| Overnight/ Late-Night Bus | Runs very late/early for flight schedules. Fewer departures. | Similar | Slightly higher | Essential. Check schedule carefully. |
Pros: Direct to terminals, no transfers with luggage, very affordable. Cons: Travel time is unpredictable due to Tokyo traffic, especially during rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM).
Taxi or Private Transfer: For Special Circumstances Only
This is the most expensive option by a large margin and is generally not advised for typical tourists. However, it has its niche uses.
Cost & Practical Information
- Standard Taxi: The meter fare for the 70-80 km journey is ¥25,000 - ¥35,000+. Highway tolls (¥2,000-¥3,000) are extra. The trip takes 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.
- Pre-Booked Private Car/Van: Services like Kokusai Drive offer fixed prices. A sedan typically costs ¥25,000 - ¥30,000 total. A van for groups of 5-9 can be ¥35,000 - ¥45,000.
When Does It Make Sense?
- Large Groups (4+ people): Splitting the cost can make it comparable to train fares per person.
- Travelers with Excessive/Multiple Large Luggage Items that are cumbersome on trains/buses.
- Very Early Morning or Late Night Flights when public transport is not operating.
- Travelers with Mobility Challenges or small children requiring car seats.
Important: Always agree on a fixed price or ensure the meter is used before departure. Pre-booking online is highly recommended.
Ticket Options & Final Cost Comparison
This summary table helps you make a final decision at a glance.
| Transport Method | Total Travel Time (Est.) | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Transfers | Best For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Keikyu + N'EX) | 90-100 mins | ¥3,250 - ¥3,500 | 1-2 | Most travelers, balance of speed & comfort. | 🏆 BEST OVERALL |
| Train (JR Sobu Rapid with JR Pass) | 110-120 mins | FREE (with Pass) | 1-2 | Budget travelers with a valid JR Pass. | 💰 BEST WITH JR PASS |
| Airport Limousine Bus | 90-120 mins (traffic) | ¥1,300 - ¥1,500 | 0 (direct from pickup point) | Budget travelers with heavy bags, avoiding transfers. | 🎯 BEST BUDGET / DIRECT RIDE |
| Taxi / Private Car | 60-90 mins (traffic) | ¥25,000 - ¥35,000+ | 0 | Groups, late-night travel, special needs. | 👥 FOR GROUPS/SPECIAL CASES |
| Domestic Flight (HND→NRT) | 3.5 - 4+ hours | ¥8,000 - ¥15,000+ | Multiple | Generally not recommended for this transfer. | ❌ NOT ADVISED |
Where to Buy Train Tickets: You can purchase N'EX, Skyliner, and bus tickets at the stations (Shinagawa, Tokyo, Ueno, T-CAT), from vending machines, ticket counters, or online in advance for a discount (e.g., Skyliner e-ticket).
Pro Traveler Tips & Insider Advice
- 🗼 Luggage Solution - Use Takkyubin (Luggage Forwarding): If your luggage is heavy, use services like Yamato Transport. Send your bags from your Tokyo hotel directly to Narita Airport (or vice versa) a day ahead for ~¥2,000 per piece. Travel to the airport hands-free!
- 🚉 Navigate Tokyo Station with Time: Transferring at Tokyo Station can be a 10-15 minute walk. Follow signs for the JR Keiyo Line / Musashino Line for the N'EX, or JR Sobu Line for rapid trains. Allow extra time if you're not familiar with it.
- 📅 Book Ahead During Peak Seasons: During Golden Week (late Apr/early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (late Dec-early Jan), reserve bus and train seats weeks in advance.
- 📱 Use Navigation Apps: Use Google Maps or Japan Travel by Navitime for real-time train schedules, platform numbers, and walking directions. They are incredibly accurate.
- ⏰ General Timing Rule: Aim to be at Narita Airport 2 hours before an international flight and 90 minutes before a domestic flight. Factor this into your departure time from Tokyo Tower.
FAQs: Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport
Is there a direct train from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a local train (e.g., Toei Oedo Line, JR Yamanote) to a major station like Shinagawa, Tokyo, or Ueno first, then transfer to an express airport train (N'EX, Skyliner).
What is the cheapest way to get from Tokyo Tower to Narita Airport?
The cheapest comfortable way is the Airport Limousine Bus from a nearby pickup point like T-CAT (~¥1,300). The absolute cheapest would involve local trains only (no express), but this takes over 2.5 hours and multiple complex transfers, not recommended.
Is the Narita Express (N'EX) covered by the Japan Rail Pass?
Yes, the N'EX is fully covered by the ordinary Japan Rail Pass. You can get a reserved seat ticket for free at a JR East Travel Service Center by showing your pass.
How do I get to Narita Airport for a very early morning (e.g., 7 AM) flight?
Public transport will not get you there in time. Your options are: 1) Stay at a hotel at or near Narita Airport the night before, 2) Take a very late-night Airport Limousine Bus (check schedules), or 3) Book a private taxi/transfer.
What's the best option for a family with young kids and strollers?
The Airport Limousine Bus is often easiest as it's direct and you can store strollers in the luggage compartment. Alternatively, a pre-booked private van offers maximum convenience, though at a high cost.
Is it faster to fly from Haneda to Narita than to take the train?
No. When you account for travel to Haneda Airport, check-in, security, flight time, and disembarkation at Narita, the total "door-to-door" time is typically over 3.5 hours, compared to under 2 hours for the train.
Where can I store my luggage near Tokyo Tower if I have time before my flight?
There are coin lockers at nearby stations like Hamamatsucho and Daimon. However, they fill up quickly. Using a luggage forwarding service (Takkyubin) to send bags directly to the airport is a more reliable option.
Can I use Suica/Pasmo card for the entire journey?
Mostly, but not entirely. You can use it for the local trains (e.g., Oedo Line, JR Yamanote) and even tap in/out for the JR Sobu Line Rapid. However, for reserved express trains like the N'EX or Skyliner, you must purchase a separate seat ticket (which can be charged to your Suica/Pasmo at the ticket machine).