Don't Just Stay at Narita Airport: Visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple Before You Leave Japan

Many people know Narita only because of Narita International Airport.

Whenever my family visits from Korea, they arrive through Narita Airport. My husband's coworkers also use it regularly for business trips overseas. For many travelers, Narita is simply the place where their journey in Japan begins or ends.

After living in Narita for years, I have come to feel that this is a real missed opportunity.

The city itself has a long history, beautiful traditional streets, excellent local food, and one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples. Whenever someone asks me if there is anywhere worth visiting near the airport, my answer is always the same.

Go to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

If you have just a few free hours before your flight or after arriving in Japan, it is one of the easiest and most rewarding short trips you can make.

Getting from Narita Airport to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

One reason I often recommend Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is that it is surprisingly easy to reach.

Narita Station is only about 30 minutes from Narita Airport by train.

You can travel there using either:

  • JR Narita Line
  • Keisei Railway

Both are convenient, and the stations are only a short walk from each other once you arrive in central Narita.

Which Train Should You Take?

When friends visit me for the first time, I usually recommend taking the JR Narita Line.

Although the fare difference is small, JR is generally easier for first-time visitors because the route is straightforward.

TrainApprox. FareGood For
JR Narita LineAround ¥240First-time visitors looking for the simplest route
Keisei RailwayAround ¥270Travelers already familiar with Keisei services

The Keisei Railway operates different train types, and not every train stops at Narita Station. If you are unfamiliar with the system, checking the destination before boarding is a good idea.

Once you arrive at either JR Narita Station or Keisei Narita Station, the walk to Naritasan Omotesando is simple and well signposted.

Comparison of JR Narita Line and Keisei Railway

Walking Along Naritasan Omotesando

One of my favorite parts of visiting Naritasan is not actually the temple itself.

It is the walk there.

Naritasan Omotesando is a historic street connecting the station to the temple entrance. Whenever I have visitors, I never suggest taking a taxi because walking through this area is part of the experience.

The street is lined with traditional wooden buildings, souvenir shops, local cafés, Japanese confectionery stores, and restaurants serving Narita's famous grilled eel.

Even if you have no shopping plans, simply walking through the area lets you experience a slower, more traditional side of Japan.

The atmosphere changes with the seasons, so every visit feels slightly different.

One of Japan's Most Historic Temples

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple has welcomed visitors for more than 1,000 years.

It is one of Japan's best-known Buddhist temples and continues to attract worshippers from across the country throughout the year.

According to tradition, the temple was established after the sacred statue of Fudo Myoo (Acala) could no longer be moved from its location. This was interpreted as a sign that the deity wished to remain there, and the temple was built on that site.

Whether or not you are interested in religious history, the temple grounds are peaceful and beautifully maintained.

Large wooden gates, traditional architecture, ancient trees, and wide stone paths create a relaxing atmosphere that feels very different from the busy airport just a short train ride away.

Don't Miss the Goma Fire Ritual

If your schedule allows, I strongly recommend attending the Goma Fire Ritual.

This Buddhist ceremony takes place every day and is open to visitors.

The first time I watched it, I was impressed by how powerful the atmosphere felt.

The sound of monks chanting fills the hall while flames rise from the altar as wooden prayer sticks are offered into the sacred fire.

Many Japanese visitors bring personal belongings such as wallets, handbags, or lucky charms to receive blessings during the ceremony.

Even if you do not understand every part of the ritual, simply observing it offers a meaningful glimpse into Japanese Buddhist traditions.

For many travelers, it becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their visit to Narita.

Enjoy Narita's Famous Unagi

After visiting the temple, I almost always walk back along Omotesando instead of taking the shortest route to the station.

There are many excellent restaurants serving unagi, or grilled freshwater eel, which has long been one of Narita's best-known local specialties.

Several famous restaurants prepare the eel over charcoal using traditional methods, and you can often watch the chefs at work from outside.

One tip I always give friends is to collect a waiting ticket before exploring the street.

On weekends and public holidays, popular restaurants often have long waiting lists, especially around lunchtime.

Taking a ticket first allows you to enjoy sightseeing while waiting for your table.

Why I Recommend Visiting Narita

Living here has completely changed the way I think about Narita.

Before moving here, I also thought of it as simply the city with Japan's international airport.

Now, whenever I hear someone say they have several free hours before a flight, I immediately think of Naritasan rather than the airport shopping area.

Instead of spending all your time inside the terminal, you can experience:

  • A historic Buddhist temple
  • Traditional Japanese streets
  • Local restaurants
  • Beautiful seasonal scenery
  • A slower and more authentic side of Japan

It only takes a short train ride, but it feels like stepping into a completely different world.

Final Thoughts

While writing this article, my youngest Bengal cat, Sora, started meowing beside my desk as if to remind me it was time for a break.

That made me smile because moments like these are part of my everyday life in Narita.

People often ask me for travel recommendations near Narita Airport, and Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is always the first place I mention.

If your flight schedule gives you even a few extra hours, I genuinely think it is worth leaving the airport behind for a while.

You may discover that Narita becomes one of the most memorable parts of your trip to Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Naritasan Shinshoji Temple from Narita Airport?

It takes about 30 minutes by train, followed by a short walk from Narita Station.

Is Naritasan Shinshoji Temple free to visit?

Yes. Visitors can enter the temple grounds free of charge, although donations are welcome for certain ceremonies or special activities.

Can I visit Naritasan during a long airport layover?

Yes, as long as you have enough time to clear immigration (if required), travel to Narita, explore the area, and return to the airport well before your flight.

Is Narita worth visiting if I have already been to Tokyo?

Absolutely. Narita offers a very different atmosphere from central Tokyo, with historic streets, traditional temples, and local food that many visitors miss.

You May Also Like

If you are planning to explore more of Narita and the surrounding area, you may also enjoy these articles:


📍 Google Maps

✈️ View Narita International Airport on Google Maps

🚶 View Naritasan Shinshoji Temple on Google Maps

Location: 일본 지바현 나리타시

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