Airport layovers are hardly ever fun. So if you have more than six hours to spare before your connecting flight, get out of the terminal and explore Chiba instead with the free Narita Airport Transit and Stay Program offered by local English-speaking volunteers. There are five tours to choose from, including a cosplay experience and visits to the Edo-period (1603-1868) riverside districts in Sawara, Tako Town’s paddy fields or Narita’s grand Shinshoji Temple. Not only is this the best way to shake off the drudgery of the departure lounge, it also gives you a chance to discover the underappreciated Chiba, Tokyo’s neighbouring prefecture where the airport is located. It’s best to make an online reservation in advance – that way the guide can plan the tour to ensure you’re back at the airport a good two hours before your flight.
Tours depart from Narita Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Reserve your tour at the airport terminal counter or online here.