Arriving in Japan for the first time can feel overwhelming.
how to get internet access
where to get a Suica card
how to use trains
whether they need cash
which train to take into Tokyo
The good news is that Japan’s airport system is organized and beginner-friendly.
This guide explains the most important things first-time visitors should do after arriving at Narita Airport so you can start traveling in Japan with less stress.
Quick Recommendation
For most first-time visitors, this is usually the easiest arrival plan:
Connect to the internet
Withdraw a small amount of cash
Get a Suica or PASMO IC card
Take a direct train to Tokyo
You do not need to prepare everything perfectly before arriving.
Most important services are available inside Narita Airport.
What You Actually Need After Arriving in Japan
You do not need to prepare everything immediately after landing.
What You Need
Why It Matters
Recommended for Most Visitors
Internet access
Maps, trains, translation
eSIM
Cash
Small shops and backup
¥10,000–20,000
IC card
Easy train travel
Suica or PASMO
Train to Tokyo
Main airport transfer
Narita Express or Skyliner
For most first-time visitors, these four things are enough to start traveling comfortably in Japan.
After Leaving Customs
After immigration, luggage pickup, and customs, you will enter the main arrival area of Narita Airport.
This is where most travelers begin preparing for transportation and travel inside Japan.
You will see many signs for:
Trains
IC cards
SIM cards
ATMs
Tourist information
English signs are available throughout the airport.
Step 1: Get Internet Access
Having internet access immediately after arrival is extremely helpful in Japan.
You may need your phone for:
Google Maps
Train routes
Hotel directions
Translation
QR codes
Online reservations
For Most Visitors, eSIM Is the Easiest Option
If your phone supports eSIM, preparing it before arriving in Japan is usually the simplest choice.
Benefits:
Internet works immediately after landing
No physical SIM exchange needed
Easy for first-time visitors
If you did not prepare an eSIM in advance, Narita Airport also has:
SIM card counters
Pocket Wi-Fi rental counters
Free airport Wi-Fi
Practical Tip
Airport free Wi-Fi is useful temporarily, but having your own internet connection becomes much easier once you start using trains in Tokyo.
Related Guide
Best eSIM for Japan Travel
Step 2: Withdraw Some Cash
Japan is much more cashless than before, especially in Tokyo.
However, some places still prefer cash.
Examples include:
Small restaurants
Older local shops
Some temples and shrines
For most visitors, withdrawing a small amount of cash at the airport is a good idea.
Recommended ATM
7-Eleven ATMs are usually the easiest for foreign cards.
They support many international cards including:
Visa
Mastercard
American Express
Practical Tip
You do not need to carry a large amount of cash in Tokyo.
For many travelers, around ¥10,000–20,000 is enough at first.
Step 3: Get a Suica or PASMO IC Card
One of the most confusing parts of Japan for first-time visitors is the train system.
Using an IC card makes traveling much easier.
Suica and PASMO are rechargeable IC cards used for:
Trains
Subways
Buses
Convenience stores
Vending machines
Instead of buying train tickets every time, you simply tap the card at ticket gates.
Which IC Card Should You Choose?
For most travelers, the differences are small.
Usually, any of these are fine:
Welcome Suica
PASMO PASSPORT
Tourist PASMO
Practical Tip
If you use an iPhone, you may also be able to add Suica directly to Apple Wallet.
This can be easier than using a physical card.
Related Guide
How to Use Suica Card for Trains in Japan
Step 4: Choose the Right Train to Tokyo
For many first-time visitors, choosing the train into Tokyo is the most confusing part.
Narita Airport has several train options, but you do not need to understand the entire train system immediately.
For most travelers, choosing a direct train is easiest.
Train
Best For
Ease
Notes
Narita Express (N’EX)
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, Shibuya
Very Easy
Direct JR train
Keisei Skyliner
Ueno, Nippori, Asakusa
Very Easy
Fast access to eastern Tokyo
Local trains
Budget travelers
Medium
Cheaper but more confusing
Which Train Should Most Beginners Choose?
If your hotel is near:
Tokyo Station
Shinjuku
Shibuya
Yokohama
Narita Express is usually the easiest choice.
If your hotel is near:
Ueno
Asakusa
Nippori
Keisei Skyliner is often easier.
Practical Tip
After a long flight, avoiding difficult train transfers is usually worth paying slightly more.
Related Guide
How to Get From Narita Airport to Tokyo
Common Beginner Mistakes in Japan
Trying To Understand the Entire Train System Immediately
Tokyo’s train network looks complicated at first.
You do not need to learn everything on the first day.
Using direct trains and Google Maps is enough for most visitors.
Carrying Too Much Cash
Japan is safer than many countries, but carrying excessive cash is unnecessary.
Most hotels, convenience stores, and major restaurants accept cards.
Choosing Cheap but Complicated Train Routes
Some routes save a small amount of money but require difficult transfers.
For first-time visitors, simpler routes are usually better after arriving.
Useful Facilities at Narita Airport
Narita Airport has many beginner-friendly facilities including:
Convenience stores
Currency exchange
Tourist information centers
SIM counters
Luggage delivery services
Restaurants
English support is available in many areas.
If you feel confused, airport staff are generally helpful.
Related Helpful Guides
Best eSIM for Japan Travel
How to Use Suica Card for Trains in Japan
How to Get From Narita Airport to Tokyo
Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors
Conclusion
The first few hours after arriving in Japan may feel unfamiliar at first.
However, you only need a few important things to start traveling comfortably:
Internet access
Some cash
A Suica or PASMO card
A simple train route into Tokyo
You do not need to master Japan’s systems immediately.
Focus on one step at a time, and traveling in Japan becomes much easier very quickly.
