How to Get from Shibuya to Narita Airport by Train:
The Ultimate Guide for Foreign Visitors
Traveling from the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district to Narita International Airport is a journey every visitor to Japan will make at least once. Whether you’re ending an unforgettable trip or catching a connecting flight, understanding your options for a smooth, stress-free transfer is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best train routes from Shibuya to Narita Airport, including step-by-step instructions, ticketing tips, and advice for every type of traveler. Get ready for a seamless Tokyo airport transfer!
Why This Route Matters: Shibuya to Narita Airport
Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, famous for its bustling scramble crossing, neon lights, shopping, and nightlife. Narita Airport, located about 60 kilometers east of central Tokyo, is the city’s main international gateway. Navigating between these two hubs can seem daunting, especially for first-time visitors, but Tokyo’s world-class train system makes it easier than you might think.
Whether you’re seeking speed, convenience, or budget-friendly options, this guide will ensure you arrive at Narita Airport relaxed and on time.
Main Train Routes from Shibuya to Narita Airport
There are two primary train routes foreign travelers use to get from Shibuya to Narita Airport:
Narita Express (N’EX) Route: Direct, comfortable, and stress-free.
Tokyo Metro + Keisei Skyliner Route: Fast, with a transfer, and often cheaper.
Below, you’ll find detailed breakdowns of each route, including step-by-step instructions, estimated travel times, costs, and tips for ticketing and station navigation.
Route 1: Narita Express (N’EX) – The Direct and Comfortable Option
Overview
The Narita Express (N’EX) is a limited express train operated by JR East, offering direct service from Shibuya Station to Narita Airport. It’s the most convenient and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or are new to Tokyo’s train system.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: ¥5,980–¥6,750 (one-way, reserved seat)
Transfers: None (direct train)
Best for: Travelers with a lot of luggage, families, those prioritizing comfort and ease
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Arriving at Shibuya Station
Shibuya Station is a major hub with multiple entrances and lines. Follow signs for the JR lines and look for the Narita Express (N’EX) logo.
The N’EX departs from the JR platforms. Allow extra time to navigate the station, especially during peak hours.
2. Purchasing Your Ticket
Advance Purchase: Tickets can be reserved online via the JR East Train Reservation website or app.
At the Station: Buy tickets at the JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-Madoguchi), JR EAST Travel Service Center, or Reserved Seat Ticket Vending Machines (available in English and other languages).
IC Cards: While IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo) are widely accepted on JR lines, the N’EX requires a reserved seat ticket, which you must purchase separately.
3. Boarding the Narita Express
Check your ticket for the car and seat number.
Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before departure; the N’EX is punctual and does not wait for late passengers.
The train features spacious seating, luggage racks, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
4. Enjoy the Ride
The N’EX offers a smooth, direct ride to Narita Airport, stopping at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2/3 stations.
Announcements are made in English and Japanese.
5. Arrival at Narita Airport
Disembark at your terminal’s station (check your airline and terminal in advance).
Follow signs to departures or arrivals as needed.
Estimated Schedule & Fares
Trains depart Shibuya roughly every 30 minutes during the day.
Example: 11:14 → 12:31 (1h 17min), 5,980–6,750 yen per seat.
Round-trip deals are available for foreign visitors (e.g., N’EX Tokyo Round Trip Ticket for 5,000 yen).
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Luggage: Dedicated luggage racks are available on the N’EX. Consider using luggage forwarding services if you have large bags.
Peak Hours: Reserve your seat in advance, especially during holidays or weekends.
Passes: If you have a JR Pass, the N’EX is included, but you must make a seat reservation before boarding.
Accessibility: Elevators and escalators are available at Shibuya and Narita Airport stations.
Route 2: Tokyo Metro + Keisei Skyliner – The Fast and Budget-Friendly Option
Overview
The Keisei Skyliner is a high-speed train operated by Keisei Electric Railway, connecting central Tokyo (via Ueno or Nippori) to Narita Airport. From Shibuya, you’ll first take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Ueno or the JR Yamanote Line to Nippori, then transfer to the Skyliner.
Travel Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Cost: ~¥2,580 (one-way)
Transfers: 1 (at Ueno or Nippori)
Best for: Budget travelers, those comfortable with one transfer, travelers staying near Ueno/Nippori
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. From Shibuya to Ueno or Nippori
Option A: Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
Board the Ginza Line at Shibuya Station (Platform 1 or 2).
Ride to Ueno Station (about 27 minutes, 15 stops, ¥210).
Option B: JR Yamanote Line
Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya to Nippori (about 25 minutes, ¥200).
2. Transfer to the Keisei Skyliner
At Ueno or Nippori, follow signs for the Keisei Line/Skyliner.
Purchase your Skyliner ticket at the Keisei ticket counter or vending machine (English available), or reserve in advance online for discounts.
Total Skyliner fare: ¥2,580 (¥1,280 base fare + ¥1,300 express surcharge).
IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) can be used for the Tokyo Metro/JR portion, but a separate ticket is needed for the Skyliner.
3. Boarding the Skyliner
Check your ticket for the car and seat number.
The Skyliner offers reserved seating, luggage racks, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Trains depart every 20–40 minutes; check the schedule in advance.
4. Arrival at Narita Airport
The Skyliner stops at Narita Airport Terminal 2/3 and Terminal 1.
Follow signs to your departure terminal.
Estimated Schedule & Fares
Example: Shibuya (05:01) → Ueno (05:28, Ginza Line, ¥210), Ueno → Narita Airport Terminal 1 (Skyliner, 46 min, ¥1,280 + ¥1,300).
Total time: ~1 hour 28 minutes.
Total cost: ~¥2,580–2,790.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Transfers: Ueno and Nippori stations are large but well-signposted in English. Allow extra time for the transfer, especially with luggage.
Luggage: Skyliner trains have dedicated luggage space.
Online Booking: Reserve Skyliner tickets online for discounts and guaranteed seats.
IC Cards: Use Suica or Pasmo for the Tokyo Metro/JR section, but buy a separate Skyliner ticket.
Early/Late Flights: The Skyliner operates later than the N’EX, making it a good option for late-night departures.
Route Comparison Table
| Route | Transfers | Time | Cost (One-way) | Luggage Space | Direct? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Narita Express (N’EX) | 0 | ~75 min | ¥5,980–6,750 | Excellent | Yes | Comfort, families, JR Pass |
| Tokyo Metro + Keisei Skyliner | 1 | ~80–90 min | ¥2,580–2,790 | Good | No | Budget, late flights, speed |
Which Route is Best for You?
For Comfort & Convenience: The Narita Express is unbeatable for a direct, stress-free ride, especially with heavy luggage or if you have a JR Pass.
For Budget Travelers: The Tokyo Metro + Keisei Skyliner route is much cheaper and nearly as fast, but requires a transfer.
For Late-Night/Early-Morning Flights: The Skyliner runs later than the N’EX, making it the better option for flights outside standard hours.
For Families or First-Time Visitors: The N’EX’s direct service and English-friendly facilities make it the easiest choice.
How to Buy Train Tickets and Use IC Cards
Narita Express: Buy tickets at JR ticket offices, travel centers, or vending machines with multilingual support. Reserve online for convenience.
Keisei Skyliner: Buy at Keisei counters, vending machines, or online for discounts. Exchange online reservations for a physical ticket at the station.
IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo): Use for local trains and subways, but not for the N’EX or Skyliner portions.
Credit Cards: Widely accepted at ticket machines and counters.
Useful Apps and Websites for Route Planning
Japan Travel by NAVITIME: Multilingual app for route search, train times, and transfers.
JR East Train Reservation: For booking Narita Express tickets online.
Keisei Skyliner Website: For online ticket purchase and schedule info.
Google Maps: Reliable for real-time route planning.
Hyperdia: Detailed train schedules and fare calculators.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Journey
Arrive Early: Allow extra time at Shibuya Station, especially during rush hour.
Check Your Terminal: Narita has three terminals; confirm your airline’s terminal before departure.
Luggage Services: Consider using luggage forwarding if you have bulky bags.
Station Navigation: Follow the English signs and don’t hesitate to ask station staff for help.
Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi is available on most airport trains and at Narita Airport.
Travel Passes: If you’re traveling more around Japan, consider a JR Pass or Tokyo Subway Ticket for additional savings.
Summary: Your Tokyo Airport Transfer Made Easy
Getting from Shibuya to Narita Airport by train is straightforward once you know your options. The Narita Express offers a direct, comfortable ride with no transfers, ideal for those prioritizing convenience or traveling with lots of luggage. The Tokyo Metro + Keisei Skyliner route is a fast and affordable alternative, perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those with flights outside regular hours.
Whichever route you choose, Tokyo’s rail system is efficient, safe, and foreigner-friendly. With a little planning, your journey from Shibuya to Narita Airport will be the perfect end (or beginning) to your Japanese adventure.
Safe travels!
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