Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Tokyo. Narita International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 120 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Tokyo, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Japan vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Tokyo is roughly 120 minutes from NRT via Narita Express (N’EX) / Keisei Skyliner. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in JPY. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
What to See and Do in Tokyo
For a layover visit to Tokyo, we’d suggest Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Naritasan Omotesando Street. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at NRT, check out Narita Transit & Stay Program or Narita Airport Observation Deck to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near NRT
In Tokyo
If you make it into town, Kawatoyo Honten is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurant Bon Appétit.
Inside NRT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Sushi Kyotatsu is your main option. T’s TanTan Narita Airport works too if you want something quick.
Transport from Narita International Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Narita International Airport into town:
- Narita Express (N’EX) / Keisei Skyliner: About 120 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 140 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Tokyo, budget roughly $30 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $13 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $7 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Narita International Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At NRT, you’ll find bag storage at Various locations across all terminals, typically near arrival halls, check-in areas, and train stations (JR and Keisei lines)..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and NRT is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Tokyo and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Taking a Break at NRT
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at NRT.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Tokyo exploring the streets or relaxing at NRT, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.