"μ-SKY" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets - Ekitan

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Meitetsu (Nagoya Railroad) airport access express train, "μ-SKY," which connects Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative routes, stations where the train stops, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, whether ticket issuance is required, and IC card/credit card contactless payment options. Since all cars are special cars (all seats are reserved), advance seat reservations are mandatory. This article summarizes key points to check before traveling.

*The timetable is based on information as of 2026.

The "μ-SKY" is a Nagoya Railroad airport access express train that connects Chubu Centrair International Airport Station (Centrair) and Meitetsu Nagoya Station in as little as 28 minutes. Some services also extend to Shin-Unuma Station and Meitetsu Gifu Station, making it convenient for travel from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Nagoya city and various locations in Aichi Prefecture. All cars are special cars (all seats reserved), so in addition to a basic fare ticket, a special car ticket (μ-ticket) is required to ride. Since operating information and fares are subject to change, please check the latest information on the official website before using the service.

Item Content
Train Name "μ-SKY"
Operating Company Nagoya Railroad (Meitetsu)
Main Operating Sections Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station, Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Shin-Unuma Station/Meitetsu Gifu Station
Main Starting and Ending Stations Chubu Centrair International Airport Station / Meitetsu Nagoya Station
Number of Trains Running Numerous trains (both northbound and southbound) throughout the day (generally at intervals of 20-30 minutes).
Estimated Travel Time Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Chubu Centrair International Airport Station: Minimum 28 minutes
Seating All cars are special cars (all seats reserved).
Availability of Unreserved Seating None (All cars are special cars)
Reservation Required? Required (Purchase of a special car ticket is required before boarding)
Reservation Start Date Tickets can be purchased from one month before the date of travel (same-day purchase is also possible).
Main Purchase Methods Special car ticketless service, ticket office, touch-panel automatic ticket machines
Representative Section Fare Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Chubu Centrair International Airport Station: 1,340 yen (890 yen for the basic fare + 450 yen for the μ-ticket)

The body of the "μ-SKY" train

What is "μ-SKY"?

The "μ-SKY" is an airport access express train operated by Nagoya Railroad in conjunction with the opening of Chubu Centrair International Airport (Centrair). While some Meitetsu express trains have both "special cars" and "regular cars," the "μ-SKY" consists entirely of special cars (all seats reserved), and in addition to a basic fare ticket, a special car ticket (μ-ticket) is required to ride it. It mainly operates between Chubu Centrair International Airport Station and Meitetsu Nagoya Station, but some trains run directly to Shin-Unuma Station and Meitetsu Gifu Station.

Train features and popular points

The "μ-SKY" is most appealing for its speed, traveling from Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station in as little as 28 minutes. Its popularity stems from the peace of mind that comes from knowing you'll be guaranteed a seat as an airport access express train. It features a stylish blue exterior, and the interior is furnished with comfortable reclining seats. Designed with airport use in mind, it has a dedicated luggage space for large suitcases, making it convenient for travelers and business people with a lot of luggage.

"μ-SKY" Timetable

The "μ-SKY" train operates numerous times a day in both directions, with departures approximately every 20-30 minutes. Some trains offer direct service to Shin-Unuma Station and Meitetsu Gifu Station.

Meitetsu Nagoya departure (towards Chubu Centrair International Airport) timetable

Departure Station Departure Time Arrival Station Arrival Time Travel Time
Meitetsu Nagoya Departure at 6:00 Chubu Centrair International Airport Arrive at 6:30 30 minutes
Meitetsu Nagoya Departure at 6:27 Chubu Centrair International Airport Arrived at 6:58 31 minutes
Meitetsu Nagoya Departure at 7:19 Chubu Centrair International Airport Arrive at 7:52 33 minutes
Meitetsu Nagoya Departure at 7:50 Chubu Centrair International Airport Arrived at 8:24 34 minutes

Timetable for departures from Chubu Centrair International Airport (towards Meitetsu Nagoya)

Departure Station Departure Time Arrival Station Arrival Time Travel Time
Chubu Centrair International Airport Departure at 7:00 Meitetsu Nagoya Arrive at 7:30 30 minutes
Chubu Centrair International Airport Departure at 8:00 Meitetsu Nagoya Arrive at 8:30 30 minutes
Chubu Centrair International Airport Departure at 9:00 Meitetsu Nagoya Arrive at 9:30 30 minutes
Chubu Centrair International Airport Departure at 10:00 Meitetsu Nagoya Arrive at 10:30 30 minutes

Travel time and stations where the train stops vary depending on the train. The above is a selection of major times between Meitetsu Nagoya Station and Chubu Centrair International Airport Station; the complete timetable can be found on Ekitan's "μ-SKY" timetable.

Important information regarding operating days and days when the service is suspended.

The "μ-SKY" train operates daily from early morning until late at night, and is not a train with limited operating days. However, there may be times when the train is not running between Meitetsu Nagoya Station and Chubu Centrair International Airport Station depending on the timetable revision or time of day, so it is recommended to check the timetable before using the train.

"μ-SKY" Operating Sections

Main sections

  • Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station
  • Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Shin-Unuma Station
  • Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Gifu Station

Meitetsu Nagoya Station is a hub for sightseeing and business in Nagoya city, and offers convenient transfers to the subway and other JR lines. Depending on the train, it provides direct service to Shin-Unuma Station, home to Inuyama Castle, and Meitetsu Gifu Station, which offers access to Gifu City, allowing for extensive travel from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Aichi and Gifu prefectures. Please check the destination of your train before boarding.

A traveler drinking coffee at the station.

"μ-SKY" Stations Where the Train Stops

Main stops

  • Chubu Centrair International Airport Station
  • Tokoname Station
  • Otagawa Station
  • Jingumae Station
  • Kanayama Station
  • Meitetsu Nagoya Station
  • Shin-Unuma Station (for some services only)
  • Meitetsu Gifu Station (for some trains only)

*The stations where the train stops may vary depending on the train. Please check the latest list of stops on the Meitetsu official website.

"μ-SKY" Fares

Representative section fare

Section Total Fare (Adult) Basic Fare μ-Ticket (Special Car Ticket)
Meitetsu Nagoya Station to Chubu Centrair International Airport Station 1,340 yen 890 yen 450 yen
Shin-Unuma Station/Meitetsu Gifu Station to Chubu Centrair International Airport Station 1,820 yen 1,370 yen 450 yen

*The μ-ticket is a flat rate of 450 yen regardless of age. For the most up-to-date information, please check the official Meitetsu website or the fare search on Ekitan.

Breakdown of basic fare tickets and special car tickets

The fare for "μ-SKY" is the sum of the basic fare to your destination and the special car ticket (μ-ticket) for using the special car. The μ-ticket is a flat rate of 450 yen per ride regardless of the section traveled, and is not a distance-based fare system like the reserved seat express fare on Shinkansen trains. Since all cars on "μ-SKY" are special cars, there are no seats available for general passenger fare (basic fare only).

About off-peak web discounts

If you use Meitetsu's "Special Car Ticketless Service," you can get a μ-Ticket at an off-peak web discount rate (300 yen) if you depart from your boarding station all day on weekends and holidays, or between 9:00 AM and 4:59 PM on weekdays. However, this discount does not apply if your departure or arrival station is Chubu Centrair International Airport Station.

*The fares are based on information as of 2026. Fares may change depending on the date of use, purchase method, fare revisions, etc. For the most up-to-date information, please check the official Meitetsu website or the fare search on Ekitan.

How to Buy Tickets for "μ-SKY"

Special car ticketless service (internet reservation)

Meitetsu's "Special Car Ticketless Service" allows you to check for available seats in special cars and reserve/purchase μ-Tickets from your smartphone or computer. You can check seat availability in real time and purchase tickets up to one minute before departure, even from home or while traveling, making it a convenient purchase method for travelers who don't have time to go to a ticket office. There is no need to exchange tickets; if asked to show a ticket by a staff member on board, simply show the purchase screen on your smartphone. Please note that a basic fare ticket is required separately, and transportation IC cards such as manaca can also be used.

Station ticket office

You can purchase basic fare tickets and μ-tickets together at Meitetsu stations with ticket office staff (excluding Yatomi Station and Akaike Station) and at the Meitetsu Nagoya Station Service Center. If you are unsure about communicating in Japanese or if this is your first time using the service, purchasing at the ticket office while consulting with staff is recommended.

Touch panel automatic ticket vending machine

You can also purchase basic fare tickets and μ-tickets at touch-panel automatic ticket vending machines installed at stations where special cars stop. You can select the car number and seat location (window or aisle), and you can also use manaca (transportation IC card) or credit cards (some exceptions apply).

How to buy for foreign tourists

The "μ-SKY" is a private railway limited express train operated by Nagoya Railroad, so the JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used. While we haven't been able to confirm any special passes or tickets for foreign tourists at this time, anyone can use the special car ticketless service and the station ticket machines.

*Ticket purchase methods and eligible services may change. Please check the Meitetsu official website for the latest information.

Do I Need to Get a Physical Ticket?

If you reserve and pay for a μ-ticket using the special car ticketless service, you do not need to receive a paper ticket. If asked for verification by an attendant on board, simply show the purchase screen on your smartphone to board. On the other hand, if you purchase a μ-ticket at a ticket office or touch-panel automatic ticket machine, a paper μ-ticket will be issued, and you will need to take that with you when boarding. You do not need to show the μ-ticket when passing through the ticket gates; you can enter as usual with your basic fare ticket or IC card.

*The requirement for ticket issuance and the method of receiving the ticket may vary depending on the reservation service and ticket type. Please check the latest information in the instructions provided at the time of purchase or on the Meitetsu official website.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

When riding a limited express train (which requires a paid fare), you will need a special car ticket (μ-ticket) in addition to your basic fare ticket. The transportation IC card "manaca" can be used as the basic fare portion within its area and can also be used to pay for μ-tickets at station ticket machines and ticket offices. However, if you wish to ride in a special car, you will need to purchase a μ-ticket separately.

Regarding contactless payments such as credit cards, Meitetsu is currently conducting pilot tests at ticket gates, and full implementation and support will not be available by 2026. The status may change in the future.

*Manaca is only valid for the basic fare portion of the ticket; a separate μ-ticket is required to use the special car. It is not the case that you can ride the special car with just an IC card. Compatibility may change. Please check the Meitetsu official website for the latest information.

"μ-SKY" Seating Information

Seat type (All cars are special class)

The "μ-SKY" train consists entirely of special cars (all seats reserved), with no regular or unreserved seats. While some other Meitetsu limited express trains have both special and regular cars, the "μ-SKY" is entirely made up of special cars.

Seat Type All cars are special cars (all seats reserved).
Unreserved Seating None (All cars are special cars)
Reservation Required (purchase of a μ-ticket is required before boarding)
Large Luggage Storage Area There is a dedicated space for large luggage inside the vehicle.
Barrier-Free Facilities Some trains have wheelchair-accessible seating (please check with station staff for details).

Distinctive seating

The special cars feature comfortable seats with reclining functions and a calm, relaxing interior. You can reserve by specifying the car number and whether you want a window or aisle seat, and it is said that purchasing tickets at the ticket office makes it easier to secure seats together if traveling with multiple people.

Large luggage storage area

As befits an airport access express train, there is a dedicated space inside the train for large suitcases. Since placing large luggage next to your seat will take up too much space, it is recommended to use the designated space.

Barrier-free facilities

If you are using a wheelchair, we recommend that you consult with Meitetsu or the nearest station staff in advance. Elevators and escalators are available at Chubu Centrair International Airport Station and Meitetsu Nagoya Station.

*Seat types and onboard amenities may vary depending on the train set and car number. Please check the latest train information on the Meitetsu official website.

A woman eating a bento box at the train station.

Bento Boxes and In-Train Gourmet Food to Enjoy on the "μ-SKY" Train.

We were unable to confirm that the "μ-SKY" train has a full-fledged in-car sales service. If you wish to enjoy food and drinks on board, it is best to purchase them before boarding at a convenience store, cafe, or bento shop located within Meitetsu Nagoya Station or Chubu Centrair International Airport Station. Chubu Centrair International Airport has a wide variety of restaurants and souvenir shops, so you can enjoy your time before and after departure.

*Please note that the operating hours and product availability of stores within the station and airport may change. For the latest information, please check the Meitetsu official website or the Chubu Centrair International Airport official website.

Points to Note When Riding the "μ-SKY" Train.

Since all seats on the "μ-SKY" train are special class, it is recommended to reserve your seat early if you have a specific date and time in mind. Seats tend to fill up quickly during long weekends and peak seasons. Depending on the train, some terminate at Meitetsu Nagoya Station, while others go directly to Shin-Unuma Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station, so please check your destination before boarding.

If you use the special car ticketless service, you don't need to pick up your ticket at the station. However, if you purchase your ticket at a ticket office or vending machine, you will need to pick up a paper μ-ticket. IC cards such as manaca cannot process the special car portion, so please purchase a μ-ticket separately. If you have a large suitcase, please use the designated large luggage space on board.

Summary

The "μ-SKY" is a Nagoya Railroad airport access express train that provides convenient travel from Chubu Centrair International Airport Station to Meitetsu Nagoya Station. Its main attractions are its speed, with a minimum travel time of 28 minutes, and the guaranteed seating provided by all special cars. Both a basic fare ticket and a μ-ticket (special car ticket) are required to board, and advance seat reservation is mandatory. Tickets can be purchased through the "Special Car Ticketless Service", ticket offices, and touch-panel automatic ticket machines. As it is a private railway express train, the JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used. By using the off-peak web discount, you can purchase μ-tickets at a lower price during weekday daytime hours and on weekends and holidays.

Please note that timetables, fares, and seating arrangements are subject to change. Check the latest information before departure to enjoy a comfortable journey on the "μ-SKY" train.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.