Narita Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan, serving millions of passengers each year. As one of the main gateways to Japan, it is important for travelers to have a comprehensive understanding of the airport and its facilities. This in-depth guide on Narita Airport provides everything you need to know, from transportation options to dining and shopping options.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, Narita Airport is divided into three terminals, each with its own unique features and services. Terminal 1 is the largest and serves most of the international airlines, while Terminal 2 is primarily used by low-cost carriers. Terminal 3 is exclusively for domestic flights. This guide will cover all three terminals and provide detailed information on how to navigate each one.
This guide will help you make the most of your time at Narita Airport. From the best places to eat and shop to tips on getting through security and customs quickly, this guide has everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
Overview of Narita Airport
Narita International Airport is Japan’s main gateway to the world and one of the busiest airports in Asia. Located about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, the airport is a major hub for international flights and serves as a connecting point for many travelers.
The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are connected by a free shuttle bus. Terminal 1 is divided into three buildings: North Wing, Central Building, and South Wing. Terminal 2 is divided into two buildings: Main Building and Satellite Building. Each terminal has a wide range of facilities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges, to make passengers’ travel experience more comfortable.
Narita Airport is well-connected to Tokyo and other parts of Japan by various means of transportation. The airport has its own train station, Narita Airport Station, which is served by several train lines, including the Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, and JR Sobu Line. Buses and taxis are also available for those who prefer to travel by road.
Passengers arriving at Narita Airport can take advantage of a range of services, including baggage storage, currency exchange, and tourist information. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals, making it easy for travelers to stay connected.
According to Narita International Airport’s official website, the airport has a total of 96 boarding gates and handles more than 40 million passengers annually. With its extensive range of facilities and services, Narita Airport is well-equipped to handle the needs of travelers from around the world.
Transportation Options to and from Narita Airport
Narita International Airport is located about 60 kilometers away from central Tokyo. Fortunately, there are several transportation options available to get to and from the airport.
Train
The train is the most popular and convenient way to get to and from Narita Airport. The Narita Express (N’EX) is a direct train that runs between Narita Airport and major stations in Tokyo, such as Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya Station. The journey takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on the destination.
Another option is the Keisei Skyliner, which is also a direct train that connects Narita Airport with Ueno Station in Tokyo. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes.
Both the Narita Express and Keisei Skyliner are relatively expensive compared to other transportation options, but they are fast and comfortable.
Bus
The bus is a cheaper alternative to the train. There are several bus companies that operate between Narita Airport and Tokyo, such as the Airport Limousine Bus, which connects the airport with major hotels and stations in Tokyo. The journey takes about 60-120 minutes, depending on the destination.
Another option is the Tokyo Shuttle Bus, which connects Narita Airport with Tokyo Station and other major stations in Tokyo. The journey takes about 90-120 minutes.
The bus is a good option for those who want to save money, but it can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours.
Taxi
A taxi is the most expensive option to get to and from Narita Airport. The journey takes about 60-90 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic conditions.
Taxis are convenient and comfortable, but they can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
Overall, there are several transportation options available to get to and from Narita Airport. The train is the most popular and convenient option, but it can be expensive. The bus is a cheaper alternative, but it can be crowded and uncomfortable. The taxi is the most expensive option.
Terminal Guide for Narita Airport
Narita Airport has three terminals, each with its own unique features and amenities. Here is a brief guide to each terminal:
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the largest of the three terminals and serves primarily international airlines. It is divided into three main areas: North Wing, Central Building, and South Wing. The North Wing is home to many duty-free shops and restaurants, while the Central Building features a large observation deck with views of the runways. The South Wing is where most of the airline lounges are located. There are also several hotels located within walking distance of Terminal 1.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 serves primarily domestic airlines, but also has some international flights. It is divided into two main areas: Main Building and Satellite Building. The Main Building has many shops and restaurants, including a large food court. The Satellite Building is connected to the Main Building by an underground walkway and has additional shops and restaurants, as well as a relaxation lounge.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 is the newest and smallest of the three terminals, serving low-cost carriers. It has a simple layout with a few shops and restaurants, as well as a relaxation lounge. There is also a shuttle bus that connects Terminal 3 to Terminals 1 and 2.
Overall, Narita Airport provides a wide range of services and amenities for travelers. Whether you are looking for shopping, dining, or relaxation, there is something for everyone at each terminal.
Note: For more information on each terminal and its facilities, please visit https://www.airport-narita.com/terminals.php.
Shopping and Dining at Narita Airport
Narita Airport offers a wide range of shopping and dining options for travelers. Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite or indulge in some retail therapy, there is something for everyone at Narita Airport.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, the airport has a great selection of shops that sell traditional Japanese gifts, such as chopsticks, tea sets, and kimonos. You can also find international brands like Burberry, Chanel, and Gucci in the duty-free shops. For a more unique shopping experience, head to the Narita Omotesando shopping street located outside the airport. Here you can find local shops selling handmade crafts, sweets, and other souvenirs.
When it comes to dining, Narita Airport has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. The airport offers both Japanese and international cuisine, so you can try local dishes like ramen, sushi, and udon, or opt for a burger or pizza if you’re craving something familiar. Some of the popular restaurants at Narita Airport include Gihey, which serves excellent rice dishes, and Sushi Yuraku, where you can watch the chefs prepare sushi right in front of you.
If you’re short on time, there are also plenty of grab-and-go options available, such as convenience stores and fast-food chains. The airport has a food court on the fourth floor of the airport mall, which offers a wide variety of Japanese, Western, Chinese, and fast food restaurants.
Overall, Narita Airport has plenty of options for shopping and dining, making it a great place to spend some time before or after your flight.
Lounges and Other Amenities at Narita Airport
Narita International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Asia and offers a wide range of amenities for passengers. One of the most popular amenities is the airport lounges, which offer a comfortable and relaxing environment for passengers to wait for their flights.
There are several lounges at Narita Airport, including ANA lounges, JAL lounges, and Delta Sky Club. Each lounge offers different amenities such as food and drinks, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and shower facilities. Some lounges are only available for certain airlines, so passengers should check with their airline to see if they have access to a lounge.
In addition to lounges, Narita Airport offers a variety of other amenities to make passengers’ travel experience more enjoyable. The airport has a wide range of restaurants and cafes, from fast food to upscale dining, as well as duty-free shops, souvenir shops, and convenience stores. There are also prayer rooms, smoking areas, and a medical center for passengers who need medical assistance.
Passengers can also take advantage of the airport’s free Wi-Fi, which is available throughout the airport, and the airport’s transit tours, which offer passengers a chance to explore Tokyo during their layover. The airport also provides free SIM cards to foreign visitors, making it easy for them to stay connected while in Japan.
Overall, Narita Airport offers a wide range of amenities for passengers, from lounges to restaurants to free Wi-Fi and transit tours. Passengers should take advantage of these amenities to make their travel experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Traveling can be stressful, especially when navigating a large airport like Narita. Here are some tips to help make your experience at Narita Airport as smooth as possible:
- Arrive Early: Narita Airport is a busy airport, so it’s important to arrive early to allow time for check-in, security, and getting to your gate. It’s recommended to arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight.
- Know Your Terminal: Narita Airport has three terminals, and it’s important to know which terminal your airline operates from. You can check your flight information to find out which terminal you need to go to.
- Use the Moving Walkways: Narita Airport has moving walkways to help passengers get from one end of the terminal to the other. Be sure to use them to save time and energy.
- Check the Airport Map: Narita Airport has maps located throughout the terminal to help passengers navigate. Be sure to check the map to find your gate and other important areas like restrooms and restaurants.
- Download the Airport App: Narita Airport has a mobile app that provides real-time flight information, maps, and other useful information. Download the app before your trip to stay informed and up-to-date.
- Follow Signs and Announcements: Narita Airport has signs and announcements in both Japanese and English. Be sure to follow the signs and listen to announcements to stay informed about your flight and other important information.
By following these tips, navigating Narita Airport can be a stress-free experience. Remember to arrive early, know your terminal, use the moving walkways, check the airport map, download the airport app, and follow signs and announcements. Safe travels!
Sum Up
Overall, Narita International Airport is a well-equipped and efficient airport that provides travelers with a range of amenities and services. From its various dining options to its extensive shopping opportunities, Narita Airport is a great place to spend some time before your flight.
One of the standout features of Narita Airport is its transit options. With a variety of public transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis, travelers can easily get to and from the airport. Additionally, the airport offers a range of services for travelers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.
Another great feature of Narita Airport is its lounges. With several lounges available for travelers, including those operated by airlines and independent lounges, travelers can relax in comfort before their flight. Many of these lounges offer amenities such as complimentary food and drinks, comfortable seating, and even showers.
One thing to keep in mind when traveling through Narita Airport is its layout. With three terminals and a wide range of gates, it can be easy to get lost or confused. However, the airport provides clear signage and helpful staff to assist travelers.
Overall, Narita International Airport is a great choice for travelers flying in and out of Tokyo. With its range of amenities and services, travelers can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free airport experience.
