Navigating Tokyo's Complex Train Stations with a Toddler
Surviving Tokyo's intricate train stations can be challenging, especially with a toddler. While we've managed other stations worldwide, Tokyo presents unique difficulties with many non-English signs, which can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are our tips for survival; we hope this guide proves helpful. Let’s go!
Surviving Tokyo's intricate train stations can be challenging, especially with a toddler. While we've managed other stations worldwide, Tokyo presents unique difficulties with many non-English signs, which can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here are our tips for survival; we hope this guide proves helpful. Let’s go!
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Survival Tips for Navigating Tokyo's Busy Train Stations
We weren't aware that the Keisei Skyliner train departs from Ueno while the Narita Express train (NEX) leaves from Tokyo Station. Since we stayed near Tokyo Station and purchased tickets for the Keisei Skyliner, we ended up having to transfer, which was quite a hassle with large luggage and a toddler in a stroller.
If you're feeling a bit lost while trying to locate your Keisei Skyliner train departing from Tokyo Station, this guide is here to help you.
Keisei Skyliner vs. Narita Express (N'EX): Which One to Choose?
The choice between the two options depends on your departure and arrival locations in downtown.
- Keisei Skyliner: Ideal if you are traveling to or from Nippori or Ueno stations.
- Narita Express (N'EX): Best suited for those headed to or from Tokyo Station.
Where to get Narita Express (N'EX) and Keisei Skyliner train tickets?
Klook offers Narita Express Train Tickets (N'EX) and the Keisei Skyliner Narita Airport Express Tickets, with the option to bundle with Tokyo Subway Pass for added convenience. According to our research, they offer the most affordable deals available. With Tokyo being one of the most beloved and frequently visited destinations in Asia, you can skip the long lines, purchase your tickets online, and make the most of your experience.
Route: Tokyo Station to Ueno Station to Narita Airport
This guide details the journey from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station and on to Narita Airport. We experienced some difficulties and can confirm that it's not stroller-friendly. Once, we had to carry our baby's stroller down a long flight of stairs along with our suitcase, which was quite challenging. Finding the elevator signs was also tough.
This guide details the journey from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station and on to Narita Airport. We experienced some difficulties and can confirm that it's not stroller-friendly. Once, we had to carry our baby's stroller down a long flight of stairs along with our suitcase, which was quite challenging. Finding the elevator signs was also tough.
From Tokyo Station to Ginzo Station
The Travel Information Center is Your Friend
We couldn't locate any elevators, and the Ginza Line we needed to reach was downstairs. With no other option, we had to carry the stroller and suitcase down the stairs, which was unsafe and not advisable for safety reasons.
After some searching, we finally located an elevator. Despite having a pair of eyes, we struggled to find it earlier without any train station assistance in sight. Surprisingly, no one seemed bothered by our lost situation – after all, this is the city and people are just busy minding their own business.
Make sure to seek directions if you are unsure how to navigate the Tokyo train stations as they can be quite confusing. The Travel Information Center at Tokyo Station is located close to the Japan Trial Cafe, and the staff there are very helpful, so don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
We took the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ginza Station.
From Ginza Station to Ueno Station
Finding our way to Ginza Line
More walking...
From Ueno Station to Narita Airport
- We traveled by train from Tokyo to Ginza, then to Ueno, and from there, we took the Skyliner Bullet Train to Narita Airport.
- This route is not stroller-friendly. We struggled to find elevators, as there were no lifts at any of these stations.
- Remember to exchange your ticket voucher at the ticket counter.
Finally, we made it to the Keisei-Ueno Station and from here, make sure to follow the signs.
One thing I like about Japan is that there’s always a tourist information center somewhere, without them we’re just lost.
Get your physical tickets from the Skyliner Counter
Make sure you have enough time to walk to the Skyliner Station, we thought it would be closeby so we took the closest time offered by the agent said it’s not far. We almost didn’t make it, I’m not sure why would they even offer that knowing we’re tourists, also we had a stroller and a big suitcase with us.
We walked as fast as we could to the Skyliner Train Platform.
Good thing, there are elevators here now.
Skyliner Train to Narita Airport
The Skyliner train is significantly quicker than the Narita Express train.
Travel time: 45 minutes
Arrival at Narita Airport
Finally, we arrived at Narita Airport!
Withdrawing Cash in Japan
If you need cash, 7-Eleven ATMs in Japan waive transaction fees when using a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card. Just remember to choose "credit" when prompted, even if it's a debit card, to ensure it's processed as a credit card transaction instead of a cash advance.
While at the Narita Train Station Starbucks, I bought a Japan Tumbler for 1,463 yen as a souvenir. Additionally, I received a complimentary drink and ordered the Gianduja chocolate mocha, which was delicious - not overly sweet, similar to many Japanese treats.
Narita Airport has three terminals handling domestic and international flights based on major airline alliances, eliminating the need to transfer terminals for connecting flights.
North Wing vs South Wing
Terminal Information:
- T1 North Wing: SkyTeam airlines like Air France, Delta, KLM ...
- T1 South Wing: Star Alliance airlines such as Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines ...
- T2: Oneworld carriers like British Airways, Japan Airlines ...
- T3: Low-cost carriers including Jetstar, Philippines AirAsia, Spring and Jeju Air (some departs on both terminals, check your airline app ahead of time).
You might find this next post interesting: What To Do Inside Narita Airport: Waiting for Flight/Bus
Klook offers Narita Express Train Tickets (N'EX) and the Keisei Skyliner Narita Airport Express Tickets. You can bypass the lengthy queues, buy your tickets online, and fully enjoy your experience.
I hope this guide helped clarify the route from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station, followed by the Skyliner train to Narita Airport. We completed the journey, and this won't be our last - looking forward to seeing you again, Japan!
Have fun and be safe ^__^
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Where am I going next?
For my next adventure, we're going to the "Happiest Place on Earth", Disneyland in California!
For my next adventure, we're going to the "Happiest Place on Earth", Disneyland in California!
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