6 Hour Layover In Tokyo

[DeathbyDurian]

I'm going to be flying from BKK to Hawaii in a few weeks and have a 6 hour layover in the Tokyo Narita airport.

Does anyone know if I have time to check my bag somewhere and pop out for some sushi or quick shopping in the general airport area? - I get there at 2:30pm.

It seems that they let people do this acording to the immigration website.

Basically I just want to know if it is worth my while. Is there anything worth seeing doing for a few hours around the airport? Even wandering around a mall and eating some local food sounds better than sitting in a terminal for 6 hours.

Ideas welcome!

P.S. Woo-hoo 100th post!

[canadiangirl]

I'm going to be flying from BKK to Hawaii in a few weeks and have a 6 hour layover in the Tokyo Narita airport.

Does anyone know if I have time to check my bag somewhere and pop out for some sushi or quick shopping in the general airport area? - I get there at 2:30pm.

It seems that they let people do this acording to the immigration website.

Basically I just want to know if it is worth my while. Is there anything worth seeing doing for a few hours around the airport? Even wandering around a mall and eating some local food sounds better than sitting in a terminal for 6 hours.

Ideas welcome!

P.S. Woo-hoo 100th post!

There's actually a really decent sushi restaurant in narita airport, but it's in the departure section -- don't know if you can get to it from arrivals. worth a try, i think there's a sign in front of it that says "last sushi before leaving japan!"

i think the japanese government was trying to organize some tours in the city of narita for exactly situations like yours -- not enough time to get tokyo (it's at least 1h30 into tokyo, if i remember, and that's if everything connects and you take the fastest train in and know where everything is already) but enough time to get bored.

i'm sure you can always do something silly but fun like go buy weird foods at the japanese 7-11, or something.

oh, they also sell weird japanese porn mags in the duty free. :-P

[ovenman]

Does anyone know if I have time to check my bag somewhere and pop out for some sushi or quick shopping in the general airport area? - I get there at 2:30pm.

There is a bag storage facility outside customs on the ground level. Nothing airside that I am aware of. You'll need to follow the signs for arriving passengers, clear immigrations and proceed through customs. The Japanese customs officials may wonder why you have so few bags. Explain that you are simply transiting for a few hours.

Basically I just want to know if it is worth my while. Is there anything worth seeing doing for a few hours around the airport? Even wandering around a mall and eating some local food sounds better than sitting in a terminal for 6 hours.

There is a shopping mall on the upper floors of the main part of the airport in both terminals (i.e. not airside) with some restaurants. If you make it through immigrations quickly, you actually have enough time to hop a train into Narita town and walk around for a while. I've done this myself numerous times when making the long connection to Honolulu or vice-versa. Don't forget to allow yourself some extra time to clear outbound immigrations.

[DeathbyDurian]

If you make it through immigrations quickly, you actually have enough time to hop a train into Narita town and walk around for a while. I've done this myself numerous times when making the long connection to Honolulu or vice-versa. Don't forget to allow yourself some extra time to clear outbound immigrations.

I did some searching on the web and aparently there is a popular temple with some restaurants and stores within a 15 minute train ride from the airport. I think I'll go check that out and wander around town for a bit before heading back for my flight. Anything picture worthy around that area besides the temple? Is the park right behind it any good?

Since you've done this before, do I need to do any pre-preparation re: visas to get out of the airport? Or do I just walk up to the counter, show them my on-going boarding pass and they stamp me through?

Thanks!

[ovenman]

Since you've done this before, do I need to do any pre-preparation re: visas to get out of the airport? Or do I just walk up to the counter, show them my on-going boarding pass and they stamp me through?

Presumably you are American(?) and do not need a visa for Japan. You will need to fill out the standard arrival/departure card for entry into Japan, along with a yellow quarantine card if coming from Thailand. On the plane, the flight attendants will probably ask if passengers are staying overnight in Japan when distributing the forms. You are not, but you still need to fill in the forms anyway.

[britmaveric]

Don't bother immigration is normally hrs wait to get through - better off staying put. Have some sushi at the terminal - ###### good actually. Also there is a dayroom/shower facility - take a nap and a shower if you are so inclined.

[PeaceBlondie]

Twice I've gone to the suburb of Narita; once for about 3 hours and once overnight. Definitely worth it. Ask for a transit visa when you get to arrivals at Immigration. Easy to find the train to Narita, and get back (but you're a bit short on time; good time of day, probably). The park is lovely, including trees, an old Buddhist temple, waterfall. The food, which I didn't try, is probably more authentic than at the airport, and cheaper (I went to McDonald's!!). Not a tourist town, very clean and neat but not antiseptic, narrow streets, mostly old style. I can honestly say "I've been to Japan" without meaning the airport itself. Not that a tiny suburb counts for much, but worth a few hours.

[JimmyCA]

I think if you go thru customs, if that is even possible, you will have to pay a reentry fee

Not worth it

[ovenman]

I think if you go thru customs, if that is even possible, you will have to pay a reentry fee

Not worth it

It is possible, there is no re-entry fee for transit passengers. It's well worth taking a trip into Narita if you have the time. Repeating, I have done this several times myself.

[DeathbyDurian]

Don't bother immigration is normally hrs wait to get through - better off staying put. Have some sushi at the terminal - ###### good actually. Also there is a dayroom/shower facility - take a nap and a shower if you are so inclined.

Having done this several times, Ovenman, would you agree that immigration lines at Narita are cumbersome? (Or would anyone else like to second Britmaveric's opinion?)

If I see an immigration line that looks hours long then I can just U-turn and have some airport sushi, no big deal. I also have a 5 1/2 hour layover on the way back a week later, so I get two chances to try. Might be my only chance to 'see Japan', so I have to give it a shot!

Also, I'm thinking that my bags will just 'continue on the way to Hawaii' and I won't have to get them at the baggage claim - possibly making for an easy zip through customs.

Also, yeah I'm American. It's good to know that all I have to do is show up and smile (with departure card in hand) for a visa.

Edited September 21, 2007 by DeathbyDurian

[DeathbyDurian]

Found a little map of the surrounding area and some suggestions on what to to at VirtualTourist.

A quote from the site:

Here was my travel experience in Narita, others have more details on the street names, etc: The shuttle I took to the airport from Yokosuka arrived at noon, but my flight out wasn't until 1700. So after checking my luggage with American (whose counters don't open until 1300), I ventured to the temple at Narita. What a wounderful way to spend an hour and a half before being cooped up on a plane! For anyone else with a stopover, here's some details... I took the Keisei train -- from Narita Airport Terminal 1 it only goes one way, so you can't get lost. It's about $2 each way. A train leaves about every 15 minutes from both places. After a wonderful walk around stopping to take plenty of pictures, and grabbing some lunch (yogurt and snacks from a grocery store) I was back in the airport by 1545. Nice to stretch the legs before a long filght!

Address: A few stops down form Narita airport

Directions: Start walking down the hill from the train station. You may be able to see the temple in the distance.

[ovenman]

Having done this several times, Ovenman, would you agree that immigration lines at Narita are cumbersome? (Or would anyone else like to second Britmaveric's opinion?)

The lines can be lengthy but I have also gotten processed through in a couple minutes. Worst case is as you suggest, having sized up the situation at immigrations you make a u-turn and remain in the transit area. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Also, I'm thinking that my bags will just 'continue on the way to Hawaii' and I won't have to get them at the baggage claim - possibly making for an easy zip through customs.

Right, you won't mess with your checked bags at all, just your carry-on bags (which is why I said earlier that customs may ask you where your bags are when you go through the green channel empty-handed).

[wileycoyote]

If you get a chance buy some Japanese chocolate.

There are small indivudually wrapped rectangilar pieces packaged in a box ,the same size and style as a packet of cigarettes.

The dark chocolate is yummy.

A nice small delicious souvenir of Japan,that is reasonably priced.

Wiley Coyote

[PeaceBlondie]

The first time was such a delight that I planned my next Narita connection with an overnight stay, and enjoyed staying at a real Japanese guesthouse; you can also try the bath house if you know the rules.

[DeathbyDurian]

If you get a chance buy some Japanese chocolate.

There are small indivudually wrapped rectangilar pieces packaged in a box ,the same size and style as a packet of cigarettes.

The dark chocolate is yummy.

A nice small delicious souvenir of Japan,that is reasonably priced.

Wiley Coyote

The gf loves both all things Japanese AND dark chocolate - sounds like a perfect gift.

I think you just scored me major bonus points with the missus! Thanks!

[siamaloha]

I second Ovenman and Peace Blondie... free transit pass and easy to get through Immigration to the train... nice ride to Narita City... cobblestone streets, little shops, temple... all worth grabbing yourself by the cohones and going for it! On the other hand if you stayed up all night getting ready for your trip and you're burnt out by the time you make Narita, the Day/Shower Rooms are a welcome respite, leaving you refreshed for the onward journey.

[wileycoyote]

If you get a chance buy some Japanese chocolate.

There are small indivudually wrapped rectangilar pieces packaged in a box ,the same size and style as a packet of cigarettes.

The dark chocolate is yummy.

A nice small delicious souvenir of Japan,that is reasonably priced.

Wiley Coyote

The gf loves both all things Japanese AND dark chocolate - sounds like a perfect gift.

I think you just scored me major bonus points with the missus! Thanks!

Dear Deathbydurian,

According to Google you are looking for Meiji chocolate (dark tastes better than white)

You are welcome

Wiley Coyote

[Briggsy]

What a great informative thread. I like things like this.

[think_too_mut]

Tokyo is my home, if I had 6 hours I would know what to do: stay at the airport.

There are many restaurants there, the food is good and authentic, as anywhere in Japan - no rip-offs. There is no need to sissify Japanese food as it might be the case with spicy Thai food.

6 hours boils down to 1.5 hours free time if you go to Tokyo, assuming you can read the signs and know the ropes.

Barely enough even for someone who knows where to go once in Tokyo - walk from Shinjuku station (where NRT Express brings you in 90 minutes) to Yoyogi park (Meiji Jingu temple is there, one of most important in Japan) and back. Tight schedule, IMO.

BTW, 6 hours layover is not including 2 hours before check in?

[ovenman]

6 hours boils down to 1.5 hours free time if you go to Tokyo, assuming you can read the signs and know the ropes.

Just to clarify, nobody has suggested making the long trek to Tokyo. The discussion has been regarding visiting nearby Narita.

[Irene]

6 hours boils down to 1.5 hours free time if you go to Tokyo, assuming you can read the signs and know the ropes.

Just to clarify, nobody has suggested making the long trek to Tokyo. The discussion has been regarding visiting nearby Narita.

Of all the replies, 'think_too_mut' makes most sense, i.e. stay put.

[think_too_mut]

6 hours boils down to 1.5 hours free time if you go to Tokyo, assuming you can read the signs and know the ropes.

Just to clarify, nobody has suggested making the long trek to Tokyo. The discussion has been regarding visiting nearby Narita.

Most widely used transportation are Narita Express, SkyLiner and "Airport Limousine" which is a coach service. None of them stop near anything interesting on their way. In fact, they don't stop at all (SkyLiner stops at Nippori, which is already Tokyo).

Personally, I would know how to make it to the surf beach in Chiba prefecture, even spend 3 hours in water and get back on time. For someone who has never been to Japan it takes someone to take him there.

My Texan friend tried that on his own, he even had 12 hours. And missed his flight, involving all the complications after that.

Narita is almost a wasteland, it's not for nothing that the very site was chosen to build it there.

The Narita Express stops in Chiba. It's beyond me what can be seen in that infamous, dull, bed-town. Most of the places, even most of Tokyo are like that - that's where the stories of sleepy Japanese salary men and women sleeping while standing on their 2-3 hours commute each way.

Narita airport would have more amenities to kill 6 hours on, especially for a first timer.

Edited September 23, 2007 by think_too_mut

[Acquiesce]

Of all the replies, 'think_too_mut' makes most sense,

That has to be a first.

[ovenman]

Narita is almost a wasteland, it's not for nothing that the very site was chosen to build it there.

Not everybody lives in Japan. Nobody here is suggesting that a transit passenger is going to take in all of the sights, or even a single major sight, during the short amount of time they have at their disposal during their connection. Some of us are actually content to take a stroll for a couple hours in an average town in an unknown (to them) foreign county rather than kill time in yet another airport transit area or lounge. Believe it or not.

Edited September 23, 2007 by ovenman

[lomatopo]

Weird, I cannot seem to post the URL? Perhaps because it has someone's name?

Anyway, Google "Narita Layover Page" and you should get the page. It has all the details you require.

Edited September 23, 2007 by lomatopo

[think_too_mut]

Narita is almost a wasteland, it's not for nothing that the very site was chosen to build it there.

Not everybody lives in Japan. Nobody here is suggesting that a transit passenger is going to take in all of the sights, or even a single major sight, during the short amount of time they have at their disposal during their connection. Some of us are actually content to take a stroll for a couple hours in an average town in an unknown (to them) foreign county rather than kill time in yet another airport transit area or lounge. Believe it or not.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government looks after 35 million people. More than the entire population of Canada.

Now, you want to see that in 6 hours?

If you want to have a sniff - it would be as irrelevant as shitting in a Japanese toilet.

Could be, in the backyard of your house you may boast "I have been to Japan".

Edited September 23, 2007 by think_too_mut

[Spee]

Tokyo is my home, if I had 6 hours I would know what to do: stay at the airport.

The other posters suggestions make sense if you have more time, but I agree with TTM. I lived in Japan for almost a year and have been in and out of Narita probably 15-20 times. It's just too close to call with a relatively short layover. Immigration and customs are like any other airport. I've been out in less than 15 minutes and I've waited over an hour. Then there's the baggage. Then you have to go downstairs to buy tickets and catch the train. Then get back on time with no delays. It would be a mad rush the whole way. Narita is a pretty nice airport as far as layovers and waiting goes.

If you choose to go, then remember:

With ATMs, Japan isn't like any many other places around the world. Not very many Japanese ATMs are linked to the Cirrus and Plus networks. There is a Citibank ATM just to the right of the customs as you enter the arrival hall. Any YEN you might need, can be obtained from the ATM there.

Buses are available, but I would avoid them. There are stringent security measures at the airport. If you take a bus out, then you may run into a lengthy delay getting back in. The airport police stop every vehicle and check every passport.

As others suggested, if you go, then go by train. Check the Japan Rail East website for train schedules. The train system is extremely reliable, but if you venture out on a short trip even a few minutes might be precious, and you may not be able to afford waiting 10 or 15 minutes for the next train.

When you come into the arrival hall, all of the workers at the Train and Bus counters speak good English. They will be able to give you some assistance and guide you downstairs to the train. They will also know how much the train fare is to Narita City.

Buying train tickets is automated. The ATM will probably only dispense 5000 and 10,000 Yen notes. The local train ticket machines will probably only take 1000 Yen notes and coins. (I usually take the YCAT Bus or Narita Express, so I'm not sure about the local train service.)

Outside of the airport and major cities, you won't see very much in English. I'm not sure about Narita City because I haven't been there. But I have travelled a bit in the country and typically English signage is only in these places. IN other words, on a tight schedule, you will need to already know how to get where you want and how to get back, with out having to wander around to find your way.

If you happen to get lost somewhere and can find a taxi, then take it. Tell the taxi driver "densha eki kudasai" or "Narita eki kudasai" which means please take me to the Narita train station.

Also, because of security, coming back to the airport from the train platforms, there is also a security/passport check. Normally, this does not take very long, but keep it in mind.

Have a good time and good luck if you go. I'm a little burned out on it, but Japan always offers many interesting experiences to the first time visitor.

[think_too_mut]

Of all the replies, 'think_too_mut' makes most sense,

That has to be a first.

You always come out of the woodwork whenever CDNVIC is in trouble?

Here and another place too.

[britmaveric]

I have to agree with TTM, Japan isnt so easy to negotiate as other places. It's especially hard if you don't speak Japanese.