For travelers visiting Japan, what means of transportation do they use to get to the airport and from the airport to their destination? I live in the suburbs of Tokyo and don't have a car. Therefore, when we need to go to the airport for a trip or work, we change the means of transportation based on cost, speed, and comfort, depending on the time, occasion, and mood when returning home.
Airport limousine bus
My favorite is the limousine bus that leaves from the nearest station. You'll be able to leave your luggage with you, and since it's the first train, you'll be sure to get a seat. You can sleep in the car without having to transfer to the airport! I use public transportation from my home to the nearest station. When the state of emergency was declared due to the coronavirus, the number of trains running decreased, which was inconvenient. However, there were many empty seats inside the train, and it was comfortable. Now, the number of trains running has returned to its original level, and the number of users is increasing. You may not be able to sit comfortably when the bus is about to depart. I try to line up at the bus stop 10 minutes before departure. This will ensure that you will be able to choose a good seat. Depending on the type of bus you use, you can use a transportation IC card, so if you charge it with Japanese yen, you can ride the bus without a ticket. For travelers, there may be many limousine buses that go directly to your accommodation.
Public transportation (train/bus) transfer
The most cost-effective way to get there is to take public transportation. Take a train or bus from your home to the airport. However, I don't want to do it on days with bad weather such as rain or snow, or during busy morning and evening hours because there are so many people and it can be stressful. When it comes to public transportation, at Narita Airport, you may use limited express trains such as JR's Narita Express or Keisei Electric Railway's Skyliner. It is mainly used for commuting to the airport for work or business trips. Sometimes I work on my computer in the car. Like the Shinkansen, there are power outlets at the seats, so it's convenient to charge your smartphone or tablet while traveling. Among travelers, we often see people riding the Skyliner, and we also see people riding the Access Express, which doesn't charge a limited express fare. Both trains depart from the same platform at Narita Airport Station, so I hope no one gets confused.
Taxi
Last resort. When you don't have time or don't want to ride a crowded train. Unless you're rich, you won't be able to use a taxi every time because the cost will skyrocket. If you are within Tokyo's 23 wards, you can get a ride in just a few minutes using a taxi app. It gets crowded when it rains or when public transportation is stopped.
Car
People who own a car often drive their car and park it in the airport parking lot. Depending on the long holiday season in Japan, the parking lot can be full, so I think it would be easier to have a friend or acquaintance pick you up and drop you off.
When traveling for a long time on a business trip, pack the necessary supplies into a cardboard box at your accommodation, specify the arrival date by courier, and send it in advance. This will make you feel lighter and more comfortable when you move. I hope this will be helpful to someone.
