Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (airport code NGO) is Japan's third-largest international airport, located about 40 minutes by car from the city center. Compared to airports in Tokyo or Osaka, the railway connections at Chubu Centrair can feel slightly more complex—but that's precisely why I've organized the clearest transfer logic here, helping you quickly determine which route best suits your itinerary.
The name of Chubu Centrair International Airport often confuses first-time visitors—it is not called "Nagoya Airport," but rather "Chubu Centrair International Airport," located in Tokoname City rather than central Nagoya. This is important because many travelers assume the airport is on the city's edge, when in fact you need to take a train or bus to reach the area around Nagoya Station.
The airport itself is quite user-friendly, with international and domestic terminals connected and within walking distance. Even for late-night arrivals, trains and buses remain in service—more convenient than many mid-sized airports. One thing to note: there is a walkway between the airport railway station (Chubu Centrair Station) and the terminal, so when traveling with large luggage, allow yourself 5-10 minutes extra walking time.
【Recommended Transport Options】
Transfer options mainly fall into three categories: trains, buses, and taxis. Trains are the most reliable with frequent departures, while buses are better suited for those with large luggage or families traveling with elderly members. Below are specific recommendations by function and purpose:
1. Business Travelers Frequently Traveling to the City: Meitetsu Nagoya Line
Meitetsu is the most commonly used option. Take the μ-SKY train from Chubu Centrair Station directly to Nagoya Station, with standard fares starting from ¥870 and a journey time of about 35-40 minutes. The μ-SKY is an express train with fewer stops but requires an additional express fee; regular trains are slower but cheaper. In terms of fare, regular cars cost approximately ¥870 one-way, while μ-SKY reserved seats cost about ¥1,170. If you frequently travel between the airport and the city, consider Meitetsu's "μ-SKY Ticket" (which includes express train fare from the airport to Nagoya Station), priced between ¥1,200-1,500, offering savings over purchasing at the counter.
2. Families with Elderly or Children: Airport Bus
The airport bus runs directly to Nagoya Station (Meitetsu Bus Center), Sakae, and Osu and other downtown attractions, with one-way fares of approximately ¥1,200-1,600. Drivers assist with luggage, making it much more family-friendly. The bus stop has clear signage outside the arrival hall, and fares and schedules can be found on the airport website. Note that buses are affected by highway conditions—the journey may extend to 50 minutes or more during rush hour; if time is tight, trains are still recommended.
3. Directly to Nearby Attractions: Special Route Considerations
If you're planning to visit other cities in the Chubu region, here are common destination options: To visit the Toyota factory in Toyota City, take Meitetsu from Chubu Centrair to Meitetsu Toyota Station, then transfer to the factory tour bus arranged by Toyotaxi. Total cost is approximately ¥2,500-4,000 (including tour reservation). To visit Nagashima Onsen or Jazz Dream Dreamland, you can take Kintetsu highway buses, one-way fare ¥1,800-2,200; package tickets can be pre-purchased at Meitetsu Bus Center. If your itinerary focuses on the Chubu mountain region (such as Shoryudo), consider purchasing the Shoryudo Highway Bus Ticket directly at the airport (3-day pass ¥4,000-5,500), covering classic destinations like Nagano to Takayama and Kanazawa.
4. Late-Night or Early-Morning Flights: Taxi and Charter Services
Train frequency decreases during late-night hours, making taxis an option. Taxi fare from Chubu Centrair to Nagoya Station is approximately ¥8,000-12,000, depending on traffic. Late-night surcharges may apply during nighttime hours, so it's not recommended as a first choice. For group travel, charter pickup services with Chinese-speaking drivers cost approximately ¥15,000-25,000, which can be pre-booked through KKday or Klook for better value.
【Recommended City Connection Stations】
Depending on where you're staying, here are the characteristics of the three main city gateways:
1. Meitetsu Nagoya Station: Located next to JR Nagoya Station, with easy transfers to JR and subway. Convenient for reaching Sakae, Osu, and Tenpaku shopping districts. Surrounded by Takashimaya and Bic Camera, it's the preferred accommodation area for most travelers.
2. Sakae Station (Subway Higashiyama Line): Nagoya's largest shopping and hotel district, about a 10-minute walk from the station. Nearby commercial facilities include Oasis 21 and Galaxy Hall. If you're staying in this area, taking the subway directly to Sakae Station is the more convenient option.
3. Kanayama Station: A hub near Nagoya Castle and the Science and Industry Museum. Coming from the airport requires a transfer at Nagoya Station to JR or subway. The advantage is more affordable accommodation prices compared to Sakae, suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
【Practical Information Summary】
Train one-way fare: ¥870-1,170
Airport bus one-way fare: ¥1,200-1,600
Taxi to Nagoya Station: ¥8,000-12,000
Airport to City Center Travel Time:
- Meitetsu μ-SKY: 35 minutes
- Regular train: 45-50 minutes
- Airport bus: 40-60 minutes
Operating Hours:
- Meitetsu: First train around 05:30, last train around 23:00 (every 15-20 minutes)
- Airport bus: First bus around 06:00, last bus around 22:00 (every 30 minutes, increased during peak hours)
Important Reminder: Most airport shops and restaurants close after 21:00. If you're arriving on a late-night flight, it's recommended to bring some snacks along.
【Travel Tips】
1. If you hold a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), the Chubu Centrair route may not be fully covered—Meitetsu private railway sections typically require separate tickets, so please confirm in advance which areas your pass covers.
2. During typhoon or heavy rain seasons, flights are often delayed. It's recommended to download the Meitetsu and ANA apps in advance to stay updated on train operations.
3. The Tourist Information Center at Chubu Centrair is located in the arrival hall and offers Chinese language services. Flight confirmation documents can be exchanged or consulted here in advance.
4. If your itinerary uses Nagoya as a base to explore the Chubu region (such as Tateyama Kurobe, Gero Onsen), it's recommended to purchase highway bus packages or reserve a rental car at the airport—this can save over 30% on transportation costs compared to buying tickets on the spot.
5. During cherry blossom season from March to April and the Tokugawa Festival in August, both Meitetsu and bus passenger volumes increase significantly. Peak hours may require queuing for 15 minutes or more—it's recommended to plan your travel time in advance.
