Navigating Narita Japan

Japan has two main international airports, both in the Tokyo area: Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport. Narita was the main international airport for decades, but more recently Haneda has added more flights, so make sure to check which is available from where you are departing! Haneda is more centrally located to the city of Tokyo, while Narita is a little further out in the more rural area in the city of Narita, Japan. There are many ways to get to your final destination from the Narita airport as many of the train lines operate out of there. Narita Express, JR Sobu line and the Keisei Skyliner are the most popular — and speediest. After grabbing your luggage but before boarding one of these train lines, don’t forget to visit the 7-11 in the Narita airport to grab your first delicious — and convenient and cheap — meal!

If your timeline permits and you would rather take a break before trekking to your final or next destination, there are many hotels near the airport for you to choose from. Both the Hilton Tokyo Narita Hotel and the Hotel Nikko Narita are in Narita, Japan, and about a 10-minute free shuttle ride from Narita International Airport. Both also are in areas where it is a quick walk to a convenience store, but the Nikko takes the cake with a Lawson convenience store in the hotel. I highly recommend paying for the hotel breakfast buffet at either hotel! Japanese hotel breakfast buffets are amazing with delicious Western offerings such as bacon, eggs, toast and waffles but also a traditional Japanese style buffet with rice, fish, pickled vegetables and miso soup.

If you aren’t in a hurry after your stay or you have an early morning arrival, check out the Naritasan Temple. There is a variety of different temples throughout the grounds, including one that was built in the year 940. From the train station to the grounds, you will walk through the Omotesando, which is a street lined with vendors, shops and restaurants. So many things to see and eat in just this small stretch! Another great place to stop by is Yamato-no-yu, a modern public bathhouse. They have an inside bath area, outdoor open air area and even private rooms for daytime relaxation and a delicious restaurant onsite with sushi and noodles. (Don’t forget to get some eel when you are in Narita — they are known for it!) Unfortunately, kids under six are not permitted, but they do not have any policies prohibiting tattoos.

Narita, Japan, is home to one of the two main international airports in Japan and while you may just be passing by, there is so much to see and do in this town! If you need a breather there are so many hotels nearby, and the Hilton Narita and Nikko Narita are great choices. (And don’t forget the breakfast buffet!) If you have any questions about the city of Narita, Japan, or more specifically, feel free to reach out and let me help plan your perfect Japan vacation!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Japan. For more travel inspiration, check out Fora Advisor Fedline Saintina's trip report, A Journey Through Iconic Japan Landmarks.