Japan-Rail
From the Airport to the City by Train: Narita, Haneda & Kansai
Japan's major airports all have direct rail links to the city. Here is the short version — see the airport access guide on our top page for the full station-by-station breakdown.
Narita (NRT) → Tokyo
- Skyliner: fastest to Ueno/Nippori (~41 min). Best for north/east Tokyo.
- Narita Express (N'EX): direct to Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Shinjuku (~60–90 min). Best with a JR Pass.
- Keisei Access Express: cheapest direct option into Asakusa/Nihombashi.
Haneda (HND) → Tokyo
- Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho (~18 min, JR Pass valid).
- Keikyu Line to Shinagawa (~13 min), continuing into the subway toward Asakusa.
Kansai (KIX) → Osaka / Kyoto
- Haruka Express: direct to Tennoji, Shin-Osaka and Kyoto (~50–80 min, JR Pass valid).
- Nankai Rapi:t / Airport Express: to Namba, the heart of Osaka (~35–45 min).
Tip: buy or activate your IC card at the airport station — every option above accepts it except some limited express reserved seats, which need a separate ticket.
FAQ
- Is the Narita Express covered by the Japan Rail Pass?
- Yes, the N'EX is fully covered by the nationwide JR Pass, as are the Tokyo Monorail and the Haruka Express at Kansai Airport.
- What is the cheapest way from Narita into Tokyo?
- The Keisei main-line limited express or Access Express are the cheapest direct trains; highway buses can be similarly priced with more luggage space.