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Tokyo Narita Airport NRT Airport Traveler Guide

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NRT Airport Insights & Guide

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Tony Hanseder
Reviewed by: Hylke Robben
Updated:
Key NRT Airport Topics:

Getting to Know NRT Airport

Welcome to Tokyo Narita Airport, a key international hub and your entrance to Japan's vibrant capital. Known for its unique indoor garden that offers a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle, NRT ensures a memorable start or end to your journey. Our concise guide aims to streamline your airport experience, covering everything from flight updates and terminal information to dining and shopping options.

Explore our guide for seamless travel, whether you're seeking the quickest airport parking or the tastiest meal before your flight. With essential tips and detailed maps, we're here to ensure a smooth transition from the curb to your gate.

For an in-depth look at airports globally, don't miss iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide, your go-to resource for airport information worldwide.

WATCH VIDEO: Experience the arrivals at Tokyo Narita Airport Terminal 1 and follow the journey from gate to city center:

Tokyo Narita Airport has three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 has 20 gates and is used by major airlines such as Japan Airlines, American Airlines, and British Airways. Terminal 2 has 37 gates and is used by major airlines such as Delta Air Lines, Air France, and KLM. Terminal 3 has 7 gates and is used by low-cost carriers such as Jetstar Japan and Vanilla Air.

To navigate the airport terminals, follow the signs and directions to your designated terminal. If you are unsure which terminal your airline is using, check your flight information or ask an airport staff member for assistance. Once you arrive at your terminal, check the flight information displays to locate your airline departure gate.

For your convenience, Tokyo NRT Airport provides various food and beverage options, retail stores, and services throughout the terminals. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

NRT has three terminals, Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the free shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus runs every 5-10 minutes and takes approximately 5-10 minutes to travel between terminals. Passengers can find the shuttle bus stops outside of each terminal building.

For those who prefer to walk, there is a pedestrian walkway connecting Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. The walkway takes approximately 10-15 minutes to travel between the two terminals. Unfortunately, Terminal 1 is not connected to the pedestrian walkway, so passengers will need to take the shuttle bus to connect to Terminal 1.

Tips from NRT Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Tokyo Narita Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from NRT-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying out of Terminal 3, be prepared for a bit of a walk from the shuttle drop-off. It's designed for low-cost carriers, so it has a more minimalistic setup. Grab a coffee before you head there if you have time." — Kenji M., Narita, December 2023

"For a smooth connection between terminals, always check the shuttle bus schedule ahead of time. It usually runs every 5-10 minutes, but during peak hours, it can be a bit crowded." — Yuki S., Chiba, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The Narita Express train is your best bet for a quick trip to central Tokyo. It’s comfortable and reliable, but make sure to reserve your seat in advance, especially during holiday seasons." — Hiroshi T., Funabashi, February 2024

"If you're on a budget, the Keisei Skyliner is a great alternative. It’s fast and much cheaper than taking a taxi." — Aiko K., Narashino, May 2024

Parking

"For those picking up friends or family, the cell phone waiting area is a lifesaver. It's free and lets you avoid the hassle of circling around." — Takashi Y., Sakura, January 2024

"If you're parking for a longer trip, consider off-airport parking options. They offer competitive rates and free shuttles to the terminal, which can save you a lot." — Naomi H., Kisarazu, April 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss the indoor garden in Terminal 1. It’s a peaceful spot to relax before your flight, and it’s a unique feature that not many airports have." — Satoshi N., Narita, June 2024

"For a quick meal, head to the food court in Terminal 2. There’s a wide variety of options, from sushi to ramen, and it's perfect for a quick bite." — Emi F., Yachimata, September 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the flight information displays as soon as you arrive at the airport. They provide real-time updates, which can be crucial if there are any changes to your flight schedule." — Akira L., Inzai, October 2024

"To avoid long security lines, try to arrive at least three hours before your international flight. It's better to be early and have some time to relax than to rush through the process." — Haruka J., Tomisato, November 2024

iFly Tip: Find out how to prepare for every stage of your journey with kids on our expert guide.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At Tokyo Narita Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside of the airport terminals. Curbside parking is strictly prohibited, so drivers must use the short-term parking lots or cell-phone waiting areas while waiting for their passengers.

For those picking up passengers, there are cell-phone waiting areas available where drivers can park and wait for their passengers to call once they have retrieved their luggage and are ready to be picked up. These waiting areas are free of charge and are located near each terminal. Once the passenger has called, the driver can then proceed to the designated pick-up area outside of the terminal.

Parking Facilities & Options

Traveling to Tokyo NRT Airport? Here's what you need to know about parking options:

The airport offers multiple parking options for travelers. There are several parking garages and lots located near the terminals, including Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Each terminal has its own parking facility, making it easy for travelers to park near their departure gate.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, the airport also offers cell phone waiting areas. These areas are free to use and allow you to wait in your car until your passenger arrives. Once they've landed and collected their luggage, they can call you to let you know they're ready to be picked up.

For travelers with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spots located near each terminal. These spots are located close to the entrance and exit of each terminal, making it easy for travelers to access the airport.

If you're looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking may be a good choice. There are several off-airport parking lots located near the airport that offer competitive rates and shuttle service to the terminals. These lots are a great option for travelers who are looking to save money on parking.

Get details about NRT parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at NRT Airport, there are several ground transportation options available to travelers.

  • Car Rentals: For those who prefer to rent a car, there are several major car rental providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Nippon Rent-A-Car. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore Tokyo and its surrounding areas at their own pace.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport with designated drop-off areas located outside of the terminals. Fares vary depending on the destination, but visitors can expect to pay around 16,000 yen for a taxi ride to central Tokyo.
  • Airport Shuttles: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are not available in Japan, but visitors can utilize the airport's shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus service provides transportation to several hotels and destinations in Tokyo with pickup areas located outside of the terminals. Visitors should note that reservations are required for the shuttle bus service and restrictions may apply.
  • Public Transportation: For those looking for an affordable transportation option, public transportation is readily available at the airport. The Narita Express train provides direct access to central Tokyo and other major cities in Japan. Visitors can also take the Keisei Skyliner train or the Limousine Bus service for transportation to various destinations in Tokyo. Fares for public transportation vary depending on the destination, but visitors can expect to pay around 3,000 yen for a one-way ticket to central Tokyo.

iFly Tip: Plan your airport visit with help from our airport wait times guide.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be exhausting, and finding a comfortable place to rest near the airport can make your journey much smoother. Whether you're looking for a place to stay during a layover, waiting for a connecting flight, or seeking accommodation close to the airport for an early flight, we have you covered. We present a comprehensive guide to a variety of options to suit your needs, from hotels within the airport premises to those a short shuttle ride away. These accommodations offer a range of amenities, including complimentary WiFi, shuttle services, fitness centers, and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. So, regardless of your budget or preferences, you're sure to find a hotel that suits your needs. Read on to discover the best hotels, each offering a unique blend of convenience and comfort to make your travel experience as seamless as possible. Narita Hotels

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

NRT Airport offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there's something for everyone.

For those craving Japanese cuisine, Sushiden is a must-try. Located in Terminal 1, this restaurant serves up delicious sushi and sashimi dishes. Another great option is TsuruTonTan, which specializes in udon noodles and is located in Terminal 2. If you're in the mood for something sweet, head to Ladurée in Terminal 1 for their famous macarons.

In terms of shopping, the airport has a great selection of stores. For luxury fashion, check out Burberry and Gucci in Terminal 1. For electronics, head to Bic Camera in Terminal 2. If you're looking for souvenirs, there are several shops throughout the airport selling traditional Japanese gifts like tea sets and chopsticks.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Tokyo Nariata can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, here's where to find everything you need.

Passenger Services

The airport is a modern airport that offers a wide range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at the airport, so if you lose something during your travels, be sure to check with the airport's lost and found department.

If you're traveling with children, there are designated children's play areas located throughout the airport, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to play and burn off some energy before or after a long flight.

Special-needs services are also available at Tokyo Narita, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces. If you require any special assistance during your travels, be sure to contact the airport in advance to make arrangements.

For those who need to take care of banking or financial matters, there are several ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport. Medical help is also available at Narita, with a medical clinic located in Terminal 1.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Tokyo Narita Airport, there are several ways to check the status of your flight departure.

One way to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Another way to stay informed is by downloading your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications.

Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Tokyo NRT Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: See how advanced avionics assist pilots in flight navigation in our cockpit operation overview.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) is located in Narita, approximately 60 kilometers east of Tokyo, Japan.
  • Terminals: The airport features three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is the largest and serves mainly international flights, Terminal 2 is used by several major airlines, and Terminal 3 caters to low-cost carriers.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL). For a comprehensive list of airlines, visit the NRT Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Tokyo Narita handles approximately 90,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 600 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from NRT are Seoul, Taipei, Shanghai, Honolulu, and Bangkok.
  • Hub Status: Tokyo Narita serves as a hub for Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Jetstar Japan.

Airport History

Narita, also known as Narita International Airport, is the primary international airport serving the Greater Tokyo Area of Japan. The airport is located in the city of Narita, about 60 kilometers east of Tokyo.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1978: Narita Airport opened for commercial flights, replacing Tokyo International Airport (now known as Haneda Airport) as the main international airport serving Tokyo.
  • 1983: The airport's second runway was completed, allowing for increased capacity and more efficient operations.
  • 1991: The airport's Terminal 2 was opened, providing additional capacity for international flights.
  • 2001: A new satellite terminal, Satellite 1, was opened to handle the growing number of international flights.
  • 2007: The airport's Terminal 1 underwent a major renovation, including the addition of a new North Wing and South Wing.
  • 2020: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport saw a significant decrease in passenger traffic, leading to the closure of some facilities and a reduction in flights.

Despite the challenges faced in recent years, Narita Airport remains an important hub for international travel in Asia.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Narita International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: NRT
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +81 476-34-8000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Narita International Airport Corporation, Administration Building, Narita International Airport, Narita-shi, Chiba-ken 282-8601, Japan

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Tokyo Narita Airport Q&A

There are three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.
Use the free shuttle bus service, which runs every 5-10 minutes, or walk between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 via the pedestrian walkway.
Options include the Narita Express train, Keisei Skyliner train, Limousine Bus, and taxis.
Sushiden in Terminal 1 is highly recommended for sushi, and TsuruTonTan in Terminal 2 for udon noodles.
Parking facilities are available at each terminal, with options for short-term, long-term, and off-airport parking.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
The Keisei Skyliner and public buses offer affordable transportation to Tokyo.
There are several hotels within and near the airport offering shuttle services, WiFi, and other amenities.
Check the in-airport flight displays, your airline's mobile app, or the iFly website for real-time updates.
Contact the airport's lost and found department for assistance.