How to Buy Train and Bus Tickets at Narita Airport: Step-by-Step Guide

Landing at Narita Airport for the first time? This beginner-friendly guide shows you where to buy train and bus tickets, which ticket you need, how to find the counter or machine, and how to board. Follow the steps on your phone after you arrive.

First: What to Do After You Arrive at Narita Airport

1. Pass immigration, collect your luggage and go through customs.
2. In the arrivals area, check your hotel’s nearest station. Tokyo Station, Ueno, Nippori, Shinjuku and Asakusa require different routes.
3. For trains, follow signs for Railways / Trains (鉄道). For buses, look for Bus Tickets / Bus Stops (バス).
4. Choose the correct operator: JR for Narita Express; Keisei for Skyliner and regular Keisei trains.
5. Before paying, confirm your destination, departure time and whether your train needs a reserved-seat ticket.

1. How to Buy Narita Express (N’EX) Tickets

Best for many travelers heading to Tokyo Station, Shinjuku and other JR destinations, depending on the service. The Narita Express is a reserved-seat limited express train.

1. Follow the JR Line signs to the railway station.
2. Find a JR reserved-seat ticket machine or a staffed JR ticket counter.
3. Select your destination, travel date and train. Buy the complete fare including the basic fare and Narita Express limited express / reserved-seat ticket.
4. Pay using an accepted method and keep your ticket or ticket details.
5. Check the departure board for the correct platform; locate your carriage and reserved seat.

2. How to Buy Keisei Skyliner Tickets

Best for Nippori and Keisei-Ueno. Skyliner uses reserved seats, so you need the appropriate fare and Skyliner ticket.

1. Follow signs for the Keisei Line at the airport railway station.
2. Find the Skyliner ticket counter or compatible Keisei ticket machine.
3. Choose Nippori or Keisei-Ueno, select your train and buy a ticket including the Skyliner reserved-seat charge.
4. Check the departure time, platform, car and seat on your ticket.
5. Enter through the correct Keisei gates and board your reserved car.

3. How to Buy Airport Bus Tickets

Low-cost buses can be convenient for Tokyo Station. Ticket procedures vary by operator and departure terminal, so check your specific bus service.

1. After customs, follow signs for Bus Tickets or the airport bus ticket counters in the arrivals area.
2. Look for the bus service going to your destination, such as Airport Bus TYO-NRT for Tokyo Station.
3. Check whether you should buy a ticket at a counter or pay when boarding; procedures can differ by service and terminal.
4. Confirm the bus stop number and departure time on airport signs or with staff.
5. At the bus stop, follow luggage instructions and show your ticket or pay as directed by the operator.

4. How to Buy Regular Keisei Train Tickets

Regular Keisei services can be a lower-cost choice for Asakusa, Nihombashi and other destinations, depending on the train and through-service. Not every train serves every destination.

1. Follow the Keisei Line signs to the station.
2. At a regular ticket machine, choose your destination and buy an ordinary fare ticket; alternatively, use a topped-up Suica or PASMO where accepted.
3. Check the train’s destination and service type on the departure board. Ask station staff if it reaches your stop without changing.
4. Use the Keisei ticket gates and go to the platform shown.
5. Tap out with your IC card or insert your paper ticket at your destination.

Which Narita Airport Terminal Has a Railway Station?

Terminal 1 uses Narita Airport Station. Terminal 2 uses Airport Terminal 2·3 Station. Terminal 3 does not have its own railway station; follow airport signs for the Terminal 2·3 station connection, on foot or via terminal shuttle as appropriate. Allow extra time.

Check the official Narita Airport access guide for current station locations, terminal connections and bus stops.

Before You Go: Ticket Checklist

• I know my hotel’s nearest train station.
• I checked whether my train needs a reserved-seat ticket.
• I confirmed the correct airport terminal and station.
• I checked my departure platform or bus stop.
• I saved my hotel address in English and Japanese.

Need Help Choosing the Best Route?

Read our complete Narita Airport to Tokyo transport guide to compare routes, prices, journey times and the best options for your hotel.

Ticket counters, service patterns, fares and payment procedures can change. Check official operator information before your trip.