If you’re traveling to Tokyo via Narita International Airport, you’ll need to find transportation to the city center. While there are various options like buses and trains, the Narita Express (NEX) offers a convenient and comfortable ride directly to major stations like Tokyo, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. In this guide, we’ll show you how to use the NEX ticket machines to purchase tickets with a foreigner discount and reserve your seat.
1. Narita Express (NEX) vs. Skyliner: Price, Travel Time, and Stops
Among the many transportation options from Narita Airport to Tokyo, the Narita Express (NEX) and Skyliner are the most popular choices.
| Train | Skyliner | Narita Express (NEX) |
|---|---|---|
| Stops | Ueno Station, Nippori Station | Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku |
| Travel Time | Nippori: 36 mins Ueno: 41 mins | Tokyo: 53 mins Shibuya: 1 hr 15 mins |
| Price | One-way: ¥2,470 Round-trip: ¥4,940 | One-way to Tokyo: ¥3,070 Shinjuku: ¥3,250 Foreigner Discount Round-trip: ¥5,000 |
While the Skyliner is faster and slightly cheaper, it doesn’t stop at some of the major stations where tourists often stay, requiring additional transfers. The NEX, on the other hand, stops directly at Tokyo, Shibuya, and Shinjuku stations, allowing for a seamless journey without transfers. With the foreigner discount, the NEX becomes an even more attractive option.
2. Narita Express (NEX) Foreigner Discount
The standard one-way fare for the NEX to Tokyo Station is ¥3,070 and ¥3,250 to Shinjuku, which can be pricey, especially for round trips. However, foreign tourists can purchase a discounted round-trip ticket for just ¥5,000, valid for 14 days. This special offer makes the NEX a cost-effective and convenient choice.
3. Purchasing NEX Tickets at the Airport
Upon arrival at Narita Airport Terminal 2, follow the signs to the JR or NEX train area. You can buy tickets at the Travel Service Center, but lines can be long. To save time, use the ticket machines, which also offer the foreigner discount.
4. Using the Ticket Machines to Get the Foreigner Discount
At Terminal 2, ticket machines are located opposite the service center. There are five machines, but only three support the foreigner discount—these are the larger, red-colored machines equipped with passport scanners.
Important: If only the machines without the discount option are available, wait for a discount-enabled machine to free up.
1. Select Language: On the top right corner, choose your preferred language. English is available, but we’ll proceed in English.
2. Choose the Right Option: Instead of pressing the red “Narita Express” button, select “Discounted Tickets” at the bottom right.
3. Select Ticket Type: Choose “Discounted Tickets.”
4. Select “N’EX Tokyo Round Trip Ticket.”
5. Choose Travel Date: Select today’s date for immediate travel.
6. Select Number of Passengers: Input the number of tickets you need.
7. Passport Verification: You’ll be prompted to scan your passport(s). Agree to the privacy policy and scan each passport.
8. Confirm Details: Review your selection and proceed to payment.
9. Payment: The discounted price should be displayed. Note that while credit cards are accepted, some international cards may not work. It’s advisable to have cash on hand.
You will receive two tickets: one for your journey to Tokyo and another for your return trip to Narita Airport.
5. Reserving Your Seat
The NEX is an all-reserved seating train.
1. Press the “Seat reservation with Coupon ticket”.
2. Insert Your Ticket: Make sure to use the ticket for your current journey (Narita to Tokyo).
3. Select Destination: Choose your arrival station (e.g., Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku).
4. Select Date and Time: Pick your preferred departure time.
5. Choose Seat Preferences: You can select a window or aisle seat.
6. Confirmation: After completing the steps, your reserved seat ticket will be printed.
Note: Keep both your original ticket and the seat reservation ticket; you’ll need both to board the train.
6. Boarding the Narita Express
Follow the signs to the NEX platforms. You’ll need to insert your reserved seat ticket at the gate and retrieve it before proceeding.
- Baggage Handling: The train offers overhead compartments and dedicated luggage storage areas with combination locks. Remember your lock code to avoid any issues upon arrival.
- Onboard Experience: The NEX provides a comfortable and spacious environment, often less crowded due to the foreigner discount not being widely known.
7. Arriving at Tokyo Station
Tokyo Station is vast and can be overwhelming. If you feel lost, head to the ground level to get your bearings.
8. Reserving Your Return Seat
For your return trip, you can reserve your seat at any JR station with ticket machines or service centers. If you’re unsure of your schedule, you can wait until the day of departure to make your reservation.
Using the Narita Express with the foreigner discount is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between Narita Airport and Tokyo’s major stations. By following this guide, you can easily navigate the ticketing process and enjoy a comfortable journey.
