Things to Do | Visit Chiba | Latest update:2024/03/18
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Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, Omotesando Street, and Naritasan ParkKimono Rental at HidetoraThe Local Specialty: UnagiThe historic district of Narita is found under a ten-minute train ride from Narita International Airport, making it a great way to start or end your Japan trip! The main draw here is the Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple (or “Naritasan” for short) complex, a site with over 1,800 years of history. Behind the temple is Naritasan Park, whose feature the Great Peace Pagoda, calligraphy museum, a small pond, and many elements of a classic Japanese garden. To get here, just follow the historic Omotesando temple road, which is lined with traditional shops and restaurants. The road starts at the entrance to the two main train stations here in Narita: JR Narita Station and Keisei-Narita Station. These stations are located right across the street from each other, and are just one station from the airport.
JR Narita Station and Keisei-Narita Station are both just one train station from Narita International Airport.
Tourist information outside JR Narita Station's east exit. If you need a place to store your luggage, coin lockers are available next door and outside Keisei-Narita Station.
Take a walk down the old Omotesando Temple Road.
There are plenty shops where you can grab a bite to eat along the road.
Entrance to Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple.
Main Temple Hall (left) and Three-storied pagoda (right).
Great Peace Pagoda in Naritasan Park.
Ryuchi Pond in Naritasan Park.
If you’d like to try wearing “kimono” (Japanese traditional dress) or “yukata” (casual summer kimono), then you’ll want to stop by the shop Hidetora while you’re in Narita. Thanks to the experienced kimono specialist, it only takes about 30 minutes to get dressed up and get your hair done. Once you’re all decked out, you can explore the grounds of Narita Shinsho-ji Temple just next door.
Remember not to miss the traditional local specialty “unagi” (freshwater eel) while you’re in Narita too! There are over 60 restaurants serving eel dishes here, but “Kawatoyo” is the most storied establishment here in the old temple town, so that’s where I had lunch. There’s always a long line in front of the shop, but it’s absolutely worth queuing up for. The staff cut and grill the eels at the front of the shop, so you know you’re getting the freshest possible unagi. The unagi was exceptionally soft and tender, and the homemade sauce perfectly balanced the flavor. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Asahi bldg 3F, 342 Honmachi, Narita City
(A 15-minute walk from JR Narita Station)
+81-47-624-1313
386 Nakamachi, Narita City
(A 15-minute walk from JR Narita Station)
+81-476-22-2711
