How to Get from Shinjuku to Narita Airport by Train: The Complete 2025 Japan Travel Guide

Traveling from Shinjuku Station to Narita Airport is a key journey for many visitors to Tokyo. Whether you’re catching a flight home or starting your Japan adventure, knowing the best train routes can save you time, money, and stress. This comprehensive guide explains how to get from Shinjuku to Narita Airport using only trains—no buses or taxis—so you can travel with confidence, even if it’s your first time in Japan.

Overview: Shinjuku Station & Narita Airport Access
Main Train Route Options (Pros/Cons, Times, Fares)
- Narita Express (N’EX)
- JR + Keisei Skyliner
- JR + Keisei Main Line
Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Route
Navigating Shinjuku Station (with photo)
Buying Tickets: Machines, Offices, IC Cards
Arriving at Narita Airport (with photo)
FAQs & Troubleshooting
Summary & Recommendations

Overview: Shinjuku Station & Narita Airport Access

Shinjuku Station is one of the world’s busiest railway hubs, connecting dozens of JR and private lines. It’s a major gateway for travelers heading to and from Tokyo’s heart. Narita Airport, located about 60 km east of central Tokyo, is the city’s primary international gateway. Direct train connections make it easy to travel between these two points, but the options can be confusing for first-timers.

Main Train Route Options from Shinjuku to Narita Airport

Here’s a quick comparison of the main train routes, including travel time, cost, and convenience:

Route	Transfers	Travel Time	Approx. Fare	Pros	Cons
Narita Express (N’EX)	None	~1h 20m	¥3,250	Direct, comfortable, English info	Higher fare, limited departures
JR + Keisei Skyliner	1 (Nippori)	~1h 20m	¥2,790	Fastest, frequent trains	Requires transfer, stairs
JR + Keisei Main Line	1 (Nippori)	~2h	¥1,270	Cheapest	Slow, crowded, local trains

Fares and times are approximate as of June 2025. Always check official sites for the latest details.

Narita Express (N’EX)

Direct train from Shinjuku Station to Narita Airport.
No transfers required.
Reserved seating only.
Runs about every 30–60 minutes from early morning to evening.
Travel time: 1 hour 18–26 minutes.
Fare: Around ¥3,250 (about US$22.55).
Best for: Travelers with luggage, families, those wanting a stress-free ride.

Pros:

Direct, no transfers
Spacious luggage racks
English signage and announcements
Arrives at all Narita terminals

Cons:

More expensive than other options
Limited late-night departures

JR + Keisei Skyliner

Take a JR Yamanote Line or Joban Line train from Shinjuku to Nippori Station.
Transfer at Nippori to the Keisei Skyliner, a fast express train to Narita Airport.
Travel time: About 1 hour 20 minutes.
Fare: About ¥2,790.
Best for: Travelers prioritizing speed and willing to make one transfer.

Pros:

Fastest route (if connections are smooth)
Frequent departures
Comfortable reserved seats on Skyliner

Cons:

Requires transfer at Nippori (stairs/escalators)
Can be tricky with heavy luggage

JR + Keisei Main Line

Take a JR train from Shinjuku to Nippori.
Transfer to the Keisei Main Line’s Limited Express or Access Express to Narita Airport.
Travel time: About 2 hours.
Fare: About ¥1,270.
Best for: Budget travelers, light packers.

Pros:

Cheapest train option
Frequent departures

Cons:

Slowest route
Local trains can be crowded
Requires transfer at Nippori

Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Route

1. Narita Express (N’EX): The Direct Route

Step 1: Find the Narita Express Platform at Shinjuku Station

Enter Shinjuku Station via any major gate (West, East, South, or New South).
Follow signs for the “JR Lines” and look for the red “Narita Express” (N’EX) logo.
The N’EX platforms are closest to the New South Gate1.

Step 2: Buy Your Ticket

Purchase at JR Ticket Offices (Midori no Madoguchi), ticket machines, or online.
All seats are reserved; choose your departure time and seat.
Japan Rail Pass holders can use the N’EX for free (with a reservation).

Step 3: Board the Train

Arrive at the platform 10–15 minutes early.
Check the electronic signs for your train number and car.
Train staff and English signage are available to help.

Step 4: Arrive at Narita Airport

N’EX stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2·3 stations.
Listen for English announcements for your terminal.

2. JR + Keisei Skyliner: The Fast Transfer

Step 1: Take JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Nippori

Board any Yamanote Line (green) train bound for Ikebukuro/Ueno.
Trains run every few minutes; journey takes about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Transfer at Nippori to Keisei Skyliner

Follow signs for “Keisei Line” at Nippori Station.
Buy a Skyliner ticket at the Keisei ticket office or machine.
Board the next Skyliner bound for Narita Airport.

Step 3: Arrive at Narita Airport

The Skyliner stops at Terminal 2·3 first, then Terminal 1.
Walkways connect the stations directly to the terminals.

3. JR + Keisei Main Line: The Budget Option

Step 1: Take JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku to Nippori

Same as above.

Step 2: Transfer at Nippori to Keisei Main Line

At Nippori, follow signs for “Keisei Line.”
Buy a ticket for the Keisei Main Line Limited Express or Access Express.
Board the train bound for Narita Airport.

Step 3: Arrive at Narita Airport

Trains stop at Terminal 2·3 and Terminal 1.
Walk to your terminal via the station concourse.

Navigating Inside Shinjuku Station

Shinjuku Station is huge, with over 200 exits and dozens of platforms. Here’s how to find your way:

Entrances: West, East, South, and New South Gates are the main access points.
For Narita Express: Head for the New South Gate for the shortest walk to the N’EX platform.
Signage: English signs are everywhere. Look for “Narita Express,” “JR Lines,” or “Keisei Line.”
Ticket Offices: “Midori no Madoguchi” (JR Ticket Office) is marked in green.
Ticket Machines: Touchscreen, English available. Accept cash and credit cards.
Staff: Station staff speak basic English and can assist with directions.

Tips:

Arrive early, especially if it’s your first time.
If lost, ask staff for “Narita Express” or “Keisei Line.”
Use Google Maps or Hyperdia for real-time train info.

Buying Tickets: Machines, Offices, IC Cards

Narita Express: Reserved seat ticket required. Buy at JR offices, machines, or online.
Keisei Skyliner: Reserved seat ticket. Buy at Keisei offices, machines, or online.
Keisei Main Line: Buy at ticket machines or use a prepaid IC card (Suica, Pasmo).
IC Cards: Convenient for JR and Keisei lines, but not valid for reserved seats on N’EX or Skyliner.

Arriving at Narita Airport

Terminals: Narita Airport has three terminals.
- Terminal 1: Served by Narita Airport Station.
- Terminals 2 & 3: Served by Narita Airport Terminal 2·3 Station.
Signage: English, Japanese, and other languages.
Exiting: Follow signs for “Arrivals,” “Departures,” and “Baggage Claim.”
Connecting: Walkways link stations to terminals (5–10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions & Troubleshooting

Q: Can I use a Japan Rail Pass for the Narita Express?
A: Yes, but you must reserve a seat in advance.

Q: How early should I leave Shinjuku for my flight?
A: Allow at least 3–4 hours before your flight, especially for international departures.

Q: Are there luggage storage or delivery services?
A: Yes, coin lockers and luggage delivery counters are available at Shinjuku Station and Narita Airport.

Q: What if I miss my train?
A: Your reserved seat is only valid for the booked train. If you miss it, visit the ticket office for help.

Q: Is there Wi-Fi on the trains?
A: Narita Express and Skyliner offer free Wi-Fi.

Q: Are the stations accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
A: Yes, elevators and accessible routes are available. Ask staff for assistance if needed.

Summary & Recommended Route(s)

For most travelers, the Narita Express is the best choice: direct, comfortable, and easy to navigate, especially with luggage or if you’re new to Japan. The Keisei Skyliner is fastest if you don’t mind a transfer at Nippori and want to save a bit of money. The Keisei Main Line is the cheapest, but slow and best suited for experienced or budget travelers.

Remember:

Train times and fares may change. Always check official websites for the latest information before your journey.
Arrive at Shinjuku Station early, especially if it’s your first visit.
English signage and staff assistance make the journey manageable for all travelers.

Safe travels and enjoy your time in Japan!

JAPAN TRIP LAB

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