The Keisei Skyliner, operated by Keisei Electric Railway, is the fastest train connection between Tokyo from Narita Airport. Keisei Skyliner is well connected through Tokyo and Chiba Prefecture (where Narita Airport is located) and offers a convenient and comfortable link to numerous sites in central and northern Tokyo.
Various transportation methods are available to access downtown Tokyo from Narita Airport including trains, buses, and taxis. The choice you will make will likely depend on time, budget and level of comfort required. The Keisei Skyliner fits in below taxis in price, is the fastest in transportation time, and is arguably the most comfortable option with reserved seating available and plenty of floor and baggage space. As a bonus the large windows and location of the track provide the best views of the surrounding countryside and urban lanscapes which helps in building the excitement of entering Japan's largest city for the first time.
Direct access to Tokyo
After arriving in Narita Airport, you do not need to travel far as the station is located within the airport. The Keisei Electric Railway ticket counter is in the SKYLINER & KEISEI INFORMATION CENTER nearby the customs and baggage claim exit in the basement floor of all Narita terminals. Here you can purchase tickets and receive an abundance of tourism information in multiple languages.The Skyliner goes directly from Narita Airport to Nippori in the Tokyo metropolis area in 36 minutes, and to Ueno in 41 minutes*. Though typically not necessary as there are regular trains and short lines, you may also purchase your tickets in advance online. As a bonus tickets purchased online are discounted ¥270, for a total of ¥2200 one way.
* This is the shortest available time from Narita Airport Terminal 2･3 Station.
Travelers can also use the Keisei "Access Express" for direct trains to tourism destinations such as Oshiage (Skytree area, 47 minutes), Asakusa (location of the famed Sensoji temple, 51 minutes), upscale Nihombashi (luxury shopping district, 59 minutes), and Higashi Ginza (62 minutes, close to the Kabuki-za Theater), without a limited express ticket charge. Using the "Access Express" does not take advantage of the Skyliner model train, but does cut the price if you are looking to save a bit of money.
Whether use opt for the Keisei Skyliner or the Access Express, stations like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro are easily accessible with a simple train change once you reach downtown Tokyo. The Tokyo Metro subway enables you to visit Tokyo attractions such as the National Museum of Western Art at Ueno Station, Sensoji Temple at Asakusa Station, Tokyo Tower at Akabanebashi Station, and the famous scramble crossing at Shibuya station.
Connectivity and Amenities
Keisei Electric Railway offers two types of free Wi-Fi services on Skyliner trains: TRAVEL JAPAN Wi-Fi and Japan Connected Free Wi-Fi.
TRAVEL JAPAN Wi-Fi can be accessed on Skyliner trains, all stations of Keisei line, and 200,000 access points nationwide with an ID and a password received after purchasing the Skyliner ticket at Narita Airport. To receive an ID and a password, passengers need to present their passports at the ticket counter.
Japan Connected Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout 15 Keisei train stations and 150,000 access points nationwide without an ID or password. However, it is not accessible on the Skyliner train.
All passenger seats on the Skyliner have power outlets located at the base of your seat, so you can charge your device of choice while riding the train. Note you may need a special plug or voltage converter to access power in Japan.
There is oversized luggage storage toward the front of each passenger car (5 feet wide). Security cameras monitor the luggage area for safety and peace of mind. Additionally, there is plenty of luggage space above your head and at your feet.
There is no smoking on the train, but there are designated smoking areas available in all three Narita terminals.
Further packages and discounts
Tourists can also take advantage of the “KEISEI SKYLINER & METRO PASS,” a discount train pass exclusive to visitors. The “KEISEI SKYLINER & METRO PASS” combines a round-trip or one-way Skyliner ticket with a Tokyo Metro 1-Day or 2-Day Pass. The package deal will save money on your total train fair and the Tokyo Metro pass is well connected throughout the Tokyo area. With the money saved, you may want to buy a bento box to eat as you ride the train.
For example, for a 4 day / 3 night stay in Tokyo, you can get the Skyliner round-trip ticket plus a 72 hour unlimited ride subway ticket for ¥5400, ¥2540 (Adult) less than it would cost to buy the tickets separately. Other subway pass sets, in increments of 24 and 48 hours of unlimited use, are also available and are highly recommended for both convenience and cost savings if you are spending time traveling around Tokyo. It is a bit of a hassle to have to research and buy individual tickets every time you visit the train station and this unlimited ride pass will eliminate your worries completely as long as you stick to Tokyo Metro (not Japan Railways or JR).
Japan's rail system is one of the highlights of the country and offers more convenience and speed that can be found in many countries. Even so the system can be confusing and tedious when you are tired and carrying bulky luggage. Keisei Electric Railways realizes that speed, comfort and convenience is key for tourists and have made their train routes the clear choice for visitors traveling to and from Narita airport as painlessly as possible.
