Welcome to Narita International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Japan! Narita Airport is located about an hour away from Tokyo and consists of five floors and three Terminals, with international flights using Terminal 1 and 2. Whether you're a frequent traveler or a first-time visitor, you'll find plenty of things to do to make your layover or waiting time more enjoyable. In this post, check out five activities to help you pass the time at the airport.

1. PREPARE TO EXPLORE JAPAN

After you step off the plane, with a bit of preparation you will be ready to hit the ground running and start exploring all that Japan has to offer. First things first: exchanging currency and picking up a portable WiFi device. These two simple tasks can make a big difference in your travel experience, and they're conveniently located right here at Narita Airport.

Currency Exchange and Cash Withdrawal Services before
Before Passport Control, you can find several banks, agencies, and automatic machines throughout the first floor. Once you pass Passport Control, you can find a bank and two agencies on the third floor of the airport that assist with currency exchange.

Pick up a portable wifi or SIM card
You can purchase or pick up portable WiFi devices and SIM cards from counters throughout the first floor of the airport. You may also purchase prepaid SIM cards through SIM vending machines found on the first floor of every terminal.

2. SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF JAPAN AT NARITA AIRPORT

Whether you are arriving in Japan or heading home, you can conveniently savor some of the best flavors Japan has to offer without ever leaving the airport. Narita Airport features a wealth of dining options to suit every taste and budget—from cafes and bars, to traditional Japanese restaurants, to popular food chains like McDonalds and Starbucks! Some highlighted eateries are:

Sushi Kyotatsu - Terminal 1, 3F
This shop features authentic traditional Tokyo-style sushi that is not only delicious, but also reasonably priced! This store offers vegetarian options and accepts credit cards.
Hours: 9:00-1800

Homemade Udon Noodles KINEYAMUGIMARU - Terminal 1, 5F
This restaurant offers a unique experience in which you decide the portion and self-serve the broth and toppings. Customers can watch through a clear display as the kitchen staff prepare their specialty noodles from scratch. This restaurant is halal certified and accepts credit cards.
Hours: 10:00-16:30

3. EXPLORE NARITA AIRPORT’S SHOPPING SCENE

Whether you're looking for a last-minute gift or if you want to treat yourself before your flight, Narita Airport has got you covered. From traditional Japanese crafts to the latest pop-culture trends, explore some of these notable shops:

SATSUMAYA OKUTANI - Terminal 1, 4F
A souvenir shop that specializes in Kyoto crafted momentos, such as ceramics, fans, and other printed accessories.
Hours: 09:00-17:00

Narita Anime Deck - Terminal 2, 2F
Features a variety of anime related merchandise. This shop boasts fun photo opportunities through stylish displays, an anime-themed cafe, and other eat-in restaurants.
Hours: Character Goods Shop 10:00AM to 6:00PM, Entertainment Cafe 10:00AM to 5:00PM

Pokémon Store, Terminal 2, 4F
Children and adults can enjoy this small shop featuring an assortment of Pokémon merchandise, fun displays, and other small attractions, such as arcade style games and capsule toy machines.
Hours: 10:00 - 17:00

SHOP DUTY FREE
At Narita Airport, shop duty free at high-end stores such as Gucci and Hermes, or at smaller shops such as ANA Duty Free Shop that sell cosmetics, perfume, alcohol, confectioneries and more.

4. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NARITA AIRPORT EVENTS

If you prefer an interactive experience, Narita Airport offers daily and seasonal events. Check out the following daily attractions at Narita Airport:

Kabuki Experience Gallery and Shop (daily) Terminal 1
This destination offers a unique destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of traditional Japanese theater. You can also pick up a kabuki-themed gift for friends and family back home.

Observation Deck Terminal 1 and 2
Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply looking to pass the time before your flight, the observation deck is a great spot to relax and enjoy the airport's bustling atmosphere.

5. TAKE A STROLL IN THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE GARDEN

Did you know that nestled within the airport grounds, Narita Airport has its own traditional Japanese garden? Located in Terminal 2, the garden features a pond, a waterfall, and a tea house where you can enjoy a cup of matcha tea. It's a great place to relax and soak up some Japanese culture before your flight.

HOW TO TRANSFER BETWEEN TERMINALS

You can travel between terminals using a free shuttle bus. There are three lines in the airport: The Blue Line travels between Terminals 1, 2, and 3 every 15 minutes from 7:00AM to 21:30PM. The Green Line travels between Terminals 1 and 2 every 10-20 minutes from 5:00AM to 22:30PM. Lastly, the Orange Line travels between Terminals 2 and 3 every 3-5 minutes from 4:30AM to 23:20PM.

In conclusion, Narita International Airport offers an array of activities from shopping and dining to a beautiful garden. Whether you're arriving in Japan for the first time, departing on your way back home, or waiting for your transportation pick-up, Narita International Airport has something for everyone. And if you are looking for a stress-free way to explore Japan, All Japan Tours offers various tours that include meet-and-greet services at Narita Airport that will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.