How to Get from Funabashi Station to Narita Airport: Complete Travel Guide
For many visitors staying in Chiba Prefecture, Funabashi is a convenient base with easy access to both central Tokyo and Narita Airport. If your flight departs from Narita, you may be wondering how to travel smoothly from Funabashi Station to Narita Airport. This guide explains all the main routes, compares travel times and costs, and highlights tips for travelers with luggage. Whether you choose the Keisei Line or the JR Sobu Line, you can make the trip stress-free with the right preparation.
Why Funabashi is a Convenient Starting Point
Funabashi is located in western Chiba Prefecture, just 20 minutes from Tokyo by train. Many international visitors stay here to enjoy lower accommodation costs while still having fast access to the capital and Narita Airport. Because several train lines serve Funabashi, you have multiple options for traveling to the airport in as little as 45 minutes.
Route 1: Keisei Line from Keisei-Funabashi to Narita Airport
The Keisei Line is one of the most popular routes for reaching the airport. From Keisei-Funabashi Station, you can board trains directly bound for Narita Airport.
Travel time: Around 50–70 minutes, depending on whether you choose a Limited Express or Access Express.
Cost: Approximately 800–1,000 yen.
Comfort: Seats are usually available outside peak commuter hours.
A common point of confusion is the station layout. JR Funabashi Station and Keisei-Funabashi Station are separate but located very close to each other. To transfer:
Exit JR Funabashi from the south exit.
Walk straight for about 3 minutes along the pedestrian shopping street.
You’ll see signs for Keisei-Funabashi on your right.
Even though it is a short walk, foreign travelers often find it tricky because signage is mostly in Japanese. Allow a few extra minutes for this transfer.
Route 2: JR Sobu Line from JR Funabashi to Narita Airport
Another option is to travel via JR Sobu Line. While not as direct as the Keisei route, it may be more convenient if you already have a JR Rail Pass.
Option A: JR Sobu Rapid Line → Narita Line
From JR Funabashi, take the Sobu Rapid Line to Narita Station, then transfer to the Narita Line for Narita Airport.Travel time: 90–100 minutes.
Cost: Around 1,320 yen.
Option B: JR Sobu Line → Narita Express (N’EX)
If you catch a Narita Express train from a nearby station like Tokyo or Chiba, you can use JR Funabashi first, then transfer at Chiba or Tokyo Station.Travel time: About 80 minutes total.
Cost: Around 3,000 yen.
Comfort: Assigned seating with luggage racks, recommended for heavy baggage.
Keisei Line vs JR: Which is Better?
| Aspect | Keisei Line (Keisei-Funabashi) | JR Sobu Line (Funabashi) |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 50–70 min | 80–100+ min |
| Cost | ~1,000 yen | 1,320–3,000 yen |
| Comfort | Moderate, depends on time | N’EX provides reserved seats |
| Best For | Budget, direct access | JR Pass users, heavy luggage |
For most travelers, the Keisei Line is the fastest and most affordable choice. However, if you have large bags or a JR Pass, using the Narita Express through JR may be easier.
Tips for Travelers with Luggage
Elevators & Escalators: Both JR Funabashi and Keisei-Funabashi have elevators, but they can be crowded during rush hour. Arrive early if you need extra time.
Ticket Purchases: Suica or PASMO IC cards are accepted on both JR and Keisei trains. If you prefer a paper ticket, machines offer English guidance.
Best Travel Times: Avoid weekday mornings (7–9 am) when trains are packed with commuters. Late mornings or afternoons are much more comfortable.
Limited Express Trains: On the Keisei Line, look for "Access Express" or "Limited Express Narita Airport" trains to avoid extra transfers.
Last Train Warnings: Trains from Funabashi to Narita Airport typically stop around midnight. If you have a late-night or early-morning flight, consider staying in an airport hotel.
Conclusion
Traveling from Funabashi Station to Narita Airport is straightforward once you know your options. The Keisei Line offers the fastest and most affordable route, while the JR lines are better suited for travelers with a JR Pass or those who prefer reserved seating. By planning your route and allowing enough time for the JR–Keisei transfer, you can reach Narita smoothly and without stress.
As a final tip, always check train timetables in advance and consider booking an airport hotel if your flight is very early or late. With a little preparation, your trip from Funabashi to Narita will be easy and worry-free.
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