Narita: Sacred Hours—Dawn or Night at Naritasan
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the tranquil Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in the early morning or late at night, when the sacred grounds are enveloped in serenity. This guided walk offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese temple culture, moving beyond the usual tourist experience. Witness the architectural beauty of the Somon Gate and Niomon Gate and learn about the temple's rich history and its connection to Fudo Myoo. As you stroll through the peaceful paths of Naritasan Park, reflect on the deep-rooted rituals that continue to shape contemporary Japanese life. Choose between two meeting options for a personalized experience.
- Guided walk through Naritasan Shinshoji Temple during quiet hours
- Discover the temple's history and significance with an expert guide
- Experience the serene beauty of the temple grounds and Naritasan Park
Available options
Night Start
Early Morning Start
What's included
Guided tour of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
Early morning or night-time visit (guest’s choice)
Local English-speaking guide with cultural and historical insight
Admission fee
Quiet, crowd-free atmosphere not available during daytime hours
Detailed itinerary
1
Naritasan Shinshoji is one of Japan’s most important esoteric Buddhist temples, known for its centuries-old devotion to Fudo Myoo. Beyond its grand gates and halls, the temple is designed to guide visitors through a spiritual journey shaped by movement, silence, and ritual space. In the early morning or at night, when crowds fade, the atmosphere becomes especially powerful—lantern light, stone paths, and quiet grounds revealing the temple as a living place of faith rather than a historical monument. Walking through the precincts and surrounding park offers a rare chance to experience how Japanese spirituality is expressed through architecture, nature, and stillness.
What's not included
Meals
Transportation to the meeting point is not included.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The meeting point is the plaza in front of the Somon Gate at Naritasan Shinshoji. Your guide will be waiting with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.
About Narita
Narita is a city in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, best known as the location of Narita International Airport, the primary gateway for international travelers to Japan. The city offers a unique blend of modern convenience and traditional charm, with numerous temples, shrines, and natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple
This ancient Buddhist temple is the spiritual heart of Narita and a significant cultural landmark. It features beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and numerous smaller temples and shrines.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
Free (some areas may have small fees)
Narita Toy Museum
A fun and interactive museum featuring a vast collection of toys from around the world, including vintage and modern toys.
Museum
1-2 hours
¥1,000 (approx. $9)
Narita Tomyo-ji Temple
A lesser-known but historically significant temple with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful grounds.
Historical/Religious
1 hour
Free
Narita Lakeside Park
A scenic park located along the Inba Nunobiki River, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Narita Yakitori
Grilled chicken skewers, a popular street food in Narita, often served with a savory-sweet sauce.
Snack
Contains meat, gluten (soy sauce)
Unagi Don
Grilled eel served over rice, a local specialty in Narita.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)
Narita Soba
Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free (if not mixed with wheat), vegetarian (if no fish broth)
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby nature parks
Biking around the city
Visiting Narita Lakeside Park
Enjoying a traditional onsen (hot spring)
Exploring Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple
Attending local festivals
Boat rides on the Sawara Canal
Visiting during the Narita Illumination festival in December
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Narita is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
- • Avoid unlicensed taxis and always use metered taxis.
Getting there
By air
- Narita International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Narita Station
By bus
Narita Station, Airport Terminals
Getting around
Public transport
Trains are the most efficient way to get around Narita and connect to nearby cities. The Keisei Electric Railway operates frequent services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Narita
Narita Station Area
Kurimoto
Day trips
Sawara
30 km (18.6 miles) from Narita • Half day to full day
A charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional houses, and scenic canals. Sawara offers a glimpse into old Japan.
Inba Nunobiki Kofun
15 km (9.3 miles) from Narita • Half day
A large ancient burial mound, or kofun, dating back to the Kofun period (300-710 AD). It is one of the largest and most well-preserved kofun in Japan.
Katori Jingu
20 km (12.4 miles) from Narita • Half day
A significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (spirit) of agriculture and sword-making. It is one of Japan's most important shrines.
Festivals
Narita Festival • October
Narita Illumination • December
Narita Sanja Matsuri • May
Pro tips
- Arrive early at Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local specialties, such as Narita yakitori and unagi don, for an authentic dining experience.
- Explore the Omotesando shopping street for traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks.
- Visit Narita Lakeside Park for a relaxing stroll and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Sawara or Inba Nunobiki Kofun, for a mix of history and culture.
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per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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