Is Narita International Terminal 1 or 2?

Navigating Narita: Decoding Terminal 1 and Terminal 2

For travelers arriving at Narita International Airport (NRT), one of the first questions is often, “Am I going to Terminal 1 or Terminal 2?” Understanding the distinction is crucial for a smooth arrival and departure experience. While both terminals offer a range of services and connect to various destinations, their layouts and access points differ, potentially causing confusion if you’re unprepared.

This article focuses specifically on Narita’s Terminal 1. Let’s clarify its arrivals process and ground transportation options.

Arriving at Terminal 1: Ground Level Access

Upon arrival at Terminal 1, you’ll find yourself on the first floor (ground level). This is where you’ll proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. Importantly, this level also serves as the main hub for bus arrivals and departures. Several bus companies operate from Terminal 1, providing connections to various destinations within and around Tokyo.

Connecting to Narita Airport Station: Descending to B1

For those utilizing train services, the key is understanding the connection to Narita Airport Station. This station, serving several railway lines including the Narita Express and various local lines, isn’t directly on the arrivals level. Instead, you’ll need to descend one level to B1. This basement level houses the ground transportation hub, providing direct access to the station platforms. Clear signage and escalators/elevators facilitate easy navigation between the arrivals level and the train station.

Why This Matters:

Understanding this seemingly simple distinction between arrival at the first floor and train access on B1 can save valuable time and prevent unnecessary stress. Imagine arriving, expecting to immediately find the train station on the same level, only to realize you need to navigate to a different floor. Being prepared with this information ensures a smoother transition from plane to train.

In summary, if you’re arriving at Narita Terminal 1, remember: arrivals are processed on the first floor, while access to Narita Airport Station and its associated train lines is located on B1. This understanding will set the stage for a more relaxed and efficient start to your journey in Japan.