What is Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture?
**Naritasan Shinshoji Temple** is a leading Buddhist temple located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, Japan.
Founded in 940, this temple is the head temple of the Chisan branch of Shingon Buddhism, boasting a history of over 1,000 years.
Naritasan Shinshoji, dedicated to Fudo Myoo, is believed to offer various blessings, including traffic safety, business prosperity, and family safety.
It is a popular spot known for having one of the highest numbers of New Year’s visitors in the country and is widely recognized by international tourists.
This article will introduce the charms, highlights, and practical information for visiting Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in detail.
Highlights of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
1. Main Hall
The central feature of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is the Main Hall.
This majestic building, established in 1938, serves as the focal point for prayers, enshrining Fudo Myoo.
Daily Goma rituals are held inside, allowing visitors to experience the powerful ceremony.
The temple is especially bustling during events like New Year’s and Setsubun.
2. Three-storied Pagoda
Near the Main Hall stands the Three-storied Pagoda, an important cultural property built in 1712.
Its vivid vermilion color and beautiful carvings showcase the elegance of traditional Japanese architecture.
The area around the pagoda is perfect for photography, attracting many tourists.
3. Naritasan Park
Behind the Main Hall lies the expansive Naritasan Park, covering 160,000 square meters.
The park features ponds, waterfalls, and seasonal flowers, offering a relaxing stroll.
The cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves are particularly beautiful, with seasonal events held as well.
4. Niomon Gate
The entrance to Naritasan Shinshoji is marked by the historic Niomon Gate, built in 1701.
Powerful guardian statues welcome visitors, conveying the grandeur of the temple.
Passing through the gate deepens the sacred atmosphere of the temple complex.
5. Great Peace Pagoda
Within the grounds of Naritasan Shinshoji, you'll find the Great Peace Pagoda, built in 1984.
This pagoda was erected to pray for world peace and includes exhibitions of Buddhist art and meditation spaces.
The top floor offers a stunning panoramic view of Narita City.
Experiences to Enjoy at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
Matcha Experience
Within Naritasan Park, at the "Akamatsu-an" tea house, you can enjoy authentic matcha tea.
Savoring matcha while viewing the Japanese garden provides a special moment of tranquility.
Observing the Goma Ritual
At Naritasan Shinshoji, the Goma ritual is performed daily.
This ceremony involves burning away worldly desires with the flames of Fudo Myoo to fulfill wishes.
Experiencing the powerful chanting and flames makes this a unique experience for many tourists.
Access to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
Access by Train
- Get off at JR Narita Line "Narita Station" or Keisei Electric Railway "Keisei Narita Station".
- Walk approximately 10 minutes along the approach path to reach Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from the "Narita IC" on the Higashi-Kanto Expressway.
- There are many paid parking lots around the temple, but public transportation is recommended during holidays and events due to congestion.
Useful Information for Travelers
Opening Hours and Fees
- Visiting Hours: Usually from 6:00 to 16:00 (may vary depending on the season or events)
- Entrance Fee: Visiting is free, but some fees may apply for Goma rituals and special exhibitions.
Nearby Tourist Spots
- Naritasan Omotesando: A bustling street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. Known for many eel specialty restaurants.
- Aviation Science Museum: Located near Narita Airport, a recommended spot for aviation enthusiasts.
Gourmet Information
- Narita Eel: The area around Naritasan is famous for its fluffy eel dishes.
- Dango and Japanese Sweets: The approach path is filled with sweet shops, perfect for a food stroll.
Frequently Asked Questions When Visiting Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
Q. How to avoid crowds during New Year visits?
A. The New Year period is extremely crowded, but visiting early in the morning or in the evening allows for relatively smooth worship.
Q. Are there English guides available?
A. The temple grounds have multilingual guide signs, including English. Brochures are also available in English.
Q. Is visiting possible with a wheelchair?
A. The temple grounds are equipped with barrier-free facilities, making it accessible for wheelchair users.
Conclusion
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple captivates visitors with its grand architecture, long history, and soothing natural environment.
Through various experiences such as New Year visits, seasonal events, and the Goma ritual, visitors can deeply understand Japanese Buddhist culture.
Why not spend a special day combining gourmet and shopping along Naritasan Omotesando?
