Tokyo travel guide
Getting Around Tokyo: Transport Guide
The fastest way from Narita Airport to central Tokyo is the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno in 41 minutes for ¥2,570. The Narita Express serves Tokyo Station, Shinjuku and Shibuya directly in 60–90 minutes for ¥3,250. Airport limousines buses serve major hotels for about ¥1,300–1,600.
Arriving in Tokyo
Nearest airport: Haneda (HND) — 30 min to centre; Narita (NRT) — 60–90 min
From Haneda, take the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail (¥300–500, 20–30 min). From Narita, the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno (¥2,570, 41 min) or Narita Express to Shinjuku/Shibuya (¥3,250, 80–90 min).
Getting around Tokyo
- JR Yamanote Line loops all major hubs — Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Tokyo Station — every 2–4 minutes
- Tokyo Metro and Toei subway fill the gaps; a 72-hour subway pass (¥1,500) pays off fast
- Suica/Pasmo IC cards work on every train, bus and convenience store — add one to Apple/Google Wallet
- Trains stop around midnight; last-train planning or a taxi budget is essential for late nights
Destinations in Tokyo
how to get around Tokyo — FAQs
How do I get from Narita Airport to central Tokyo?
The fastest way from Narita Airport to central Tokyo is the Keisei Skyliner to Ueno in 41 minutes for ¥2,570. The Narita Express serves Tokyo Station, Shinjuku and Shibuya directly in 60–90 minutes for ¥3,250. Airport limousines buses serve major hotels for about ¥1,300–1,600.
Do I need a JR Pass for Tokyo only?
No — a JR Pass is not worth it for Tokyo-only trips. City rides cost ¥150–300 each, so even heavy days total under ¥1,000. JR Passes only pay off with long-distance shinkansen travel, such as a Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka round trip within seven days.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.