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If you’re coming to Japan via Narita Airport, I highly recommend visiting the culturally rich Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. With just about a 10-minute train ride from Narita Airport, you can easily visit before heading to Tokyo or even as a half-day trip before departing Japan. The temple, with over 1,000 years of history, has a grand gate and old buildings that showcase Japanese tradition.
After visiting temple, it’s also recommended to enjoy delicious cuisines at Omotesando.
Why not take a detour to historic Naritasan before moving on to Tokyo?
Access and Information : Naritasan Shinshoji
Basic Information :
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Naritasan Shinsho-ji |
| Address | 1 Narita, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture |
| Website | https://www.naritasan.or.jp/english/ |
| TEL | +81-476-22-2111 |
| Business hours | Grounds open 24 hours (Prayer and stamp reception hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm) |
| Closed | None |
| Admission | Free |
It’s easy to reach Naritasan Shinshoji Temple from Narita Airport since it’s close.
Access from Narita Airport:
- Using JR Line: Depart from Narita Airport and head towards “Narita Station” on the JR Narita Line. The journey takes about 10 minutes. From Narita Station, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the temple.
- Using Keisei Line: Depart from Narita Airport and head towards “Keisei Narita Station” on the Keisei Narita Airport Line. It takes roughly 10 minutes. From the station, the temple is approximately a 20-minute walk away.
The proximity of such a historical site from an international airport is rare, making it a very convenient location for travelers using Narita Airport.
About Naritasan Shinshoji
Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, belongs to the Shingon sect. It is believed to have been established in 940, during the Heian period (794-1185), and boasts a history of over 1,000 years. It attracts a large number of worshippers.
Visitors can delve into Japan’s rich traditions and spirit while exploring areas thought to offer blessings. A tour of the temple typically lasts about 2 hours.
The temple offers volunteer tour guides. For a deeper insight into its history, you might consider availing of their services.
Nationally Important Cultural Properties in Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.
The temple grounds are scattered with historic architectural marvels and cultural treasures. Of these, five have been designated as “Nationally Important Cultural Properties“
| Name | Year Built | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Niomon Gate | 1830 | The main gate of the temple with fierce guardian statues on both sides. |
| Three-storied Pagoda | 1712 | Represents Buddhist teachings and cosmology with its three tiers. |
| Shakado Hall | 1858 | A hall dedicated to Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism. Important for meditation and worship. |
| Gakudo Hall | 1861 | The central facility of Shinsho-ji, pivotal for major ceremonies and events. |
| Komyodo Hall | 1701 | A place for believers’ prayers and meditation. Its name means “hall of bright light”. |
For more on the blessings of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, check out this article.
->Seeking Blessings At Naritasan Shinshoji
If you have some extra time, consider visiting the nearby Naritasan Park. There, you’ll find a peaceful natural setting, featuring serene ponds and waterfalls.
Naritasan Omotesando Street
The Omotesando Avenue at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a historic street, exuding an old-world charm.
As you wander, you’ll find traditional Japanese eateries, sweet shops offering green tea and dumplings, and unique souvenir stores. One of Narita’s specialties is its Unagi (eel) cuisine.
Picking out a Japanese souvenir as a memento of your trip is also a delightful experience.
Walk down Omotesando Avenue and feel the old Japanese town atmosphere.
Naritasan, just a short detour from Narita Airport, offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a distinctly Japanese tradition. Don’t forget to include a visit to Naritasan in your travel plans. And for the best accommodation and activity recommendations in Japan, check out Booking.com