How to Use the Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport

The Narita Express (N’EX) is a fast, clean, and comfortable train that takes passengers directly from Narita International Airport to several major stations in central Tokyo.

The main stations the Narita Express stops at are:

• Ueno

• Shinagawa

• Shibuya

• Shinjuku

• Ikebukuro

If you're staying in or near any of these areas, the Narita Express is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get there from the airport.

Step 1: After You Land at Narita Airport

After your flight lands, you will follow the usual arrival process:

1. Go through immigration – show your passport and visa (if needed).

2. Pick up your luggage from the baggage carousel.

3. Walk through customs – you may be asked a few questions or need to show a customs declaration form.

After passing customs, you will enter the Arrivals Lobby of your terminal.

STEP 2: Go Down to the Train Level (B1F)

Once you're in the Arrivals Lobby, look for the overhead signs that say:

• “JR Line / Keisei Line”

Even though it doesn’t say “Narita Express” directly, this is the right way to go. The Narita Express is part of the JR Line.

You will need to go down to the basement level, called B1F (Basement 1st Floor). You can get there in two ways:

Option 1: Use the Escalator

You’ll see an escalator going down near the exit of customs. In some areas, you may need to take two different escalators to reach B1F.

Option 2: Use the Elevator

If you have heavy luggage, the elevator is a good option. Look for the elevator signs nearby.

Note: Don't worry if the signs look confusing. Just follow anything that says JR Line, and you’ll be heading in the right direction.

STEP 3: Optional Break (Starbucks, Restrooms, etc.)

Once you reach B1F, you’ll find yourself in a train concourse area. There may be small shops, vending machines, and even a Starbucks Coffee nearby.

You can stop here to:

• Use the restroom

• Grab a coffee or snack

• Take a break if you're tired from the flight

This is a good place to pause before continuing.

STEP 4: Buy Your Narita Express Ticket

Now you need to buy your ticket for the Narita Express. There are two main ways to do this:

Option 1: JR East Travel Service Center

This is a staffed ticket counter. You can speak to someone (many speak English) and say:

“One ticket for Narita Express to [your destination], please.”

They will:

• Sell you a ticket

• Reserve your seat

• Help you with any questions

You can also use your Japan Rail Pass here if you have one. Just tell them where you’re going, and they’ll give you your reservation ticket.

Option 2: Ticket Machines

These machines have an English language option. You can choose your destination, pay with cash or card, and print your reserved seat ticket.

What’s on Your Ticket?

Your Narita Express ticket will show:

• The departure time

• Your train car number (Car No.)

• Your seat number

• Your destination

On the train platform, there are signs that show car numbers in green. Match your car number to where you should wait.

STEP 5: Enter Through the Ticket Gates

Next, walk to the JR Line ticket gates. These look like small automatic doors with a slot for your ticket.

• Insert your ticket into the gate (it will pop out on the other side).

• If using a digital QR code, scan it at the reader.

• If you’re using a JR Pass, show it to the nearby staff to open the gate.

After going through, follow the signs that say “Narita Express” or “JR Line”. You’ll go down another escalator or elevator to the train platform.

STEP 6: Find and Board the Narita Express

Once you're on the platform:

1. Look for signs that show car numbers.

2. Walk along the platform to find your car number (shown on your ticket).

3. Wait in the area for your train car. The Narita Express is a very long train, so it’s best to wait near your correct car.

Important:

• Other trains also stop at the same platform. Make sure the train says “Narita Express” on the side and on the overhead signs before you board.

• Don’t get on a train unless it clearly says Narita Express and matches your departure time.

Main Stops In Tokyo (via Narita Express)

• Ueno: Museums, parks, and traditional neighborhoods

• Shinagawa: Easy transfer to the Shinkansen (bullet train)

• Shibuya: Famous for fashion, youth culture, and nightlife

• Shinjuku: Major shopping, hotels, and entertainment

• Ikebukuro: Anime shops, shopping malls, local vibes

Travel time varies from 50 to 90 minutes, depending on your destination.

Returning To Narita Airport

You can also take the Narita Express from Tokyo back to the airport.

• Go to any of the above stations.

• Buy a return ticket at the JR counter or machine.

• Board the N’EX back to Narita.