What to Do If the Narita Express Is Delayed or Canceled
Many travelers who arrive at Tokyo Station from the countryside use Narita Express (NEX) to go to Narita Airport.
The Narita Express, operated by JR East, is one of the most popular ways to reach NRT because it is convenient, comfortable, and time-efficient (it takes about one hour and runs every 30 minutes).
However, I’m not sure it’s really the best option. These days, cancellations and delays of more than an hour happen frequently due to accidents involving people—an unfortunate issue in Japanese society. Sadly, this occurs quite often on JR East lines in particular.
To be honest, from the start I recommend using the Airport Bus (TYO–NRT) or Keisei Skyliner, which operates from Nippori Station on the Keisei Line — but of course, it’s up to you.
If you’ve already bought a NEX ticket and are at Tokyo Station, it’s best to follow the announcements and instructions. Still, many travelers aren’t sure what to do, and depending on the situation, you may need to switch to another transportation option.
Here are some tips if you decide to switch to another transportation option from Tokyo Station.
It takes about 1 hours 20min to NRT if traffic is normal. The bus comes every 15min
The bus terminal is in Yaesu South Exit, after you go out the gate, turn right, you'll see the bus ticket office and terminal (Normally bus leaves from track no. 7)
If you have Suica card , Pasmo card or other IC card and the balance is over 1500 yen you don't need to buy ticket, you can wait in the line at track no. 7 directly
Leaving large luggage in the under space is available for one per a person. If you have some large laggages I don't recomend to use the bus.
Keisei Sky Liner (Nippori Station)
It takes about 40min to NRT, train comes every 25min around
If you're in JR Tokyo station 1st floor, take track no.4 called Yamanote Line, get off at Nippori Station, (takes 12min)
Then go to Keisei Line transfer gate and buy ticket there