Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture — What is it?
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple (Narita-san Shinshō-ji) is one of Japan’s major Buddhist temples, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture.
Founded in 940, this temple is the head temple of the Chisan branch of the Shingon sect and boasts a history of over 1,000 years.
With Fudō Myōō (Acala) as its principal deity, Shinshoji is believed to bring various blessings such as traffic safety, prosperous business, and family well-being.
It is a popular spot with one of the highest numbers of New Year visitors in the country and is widely known to foreign tourists as well.
This article introduces the attractions, highlights, and useful information for visiting Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in detail.
Highlights of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
1. Main Hall
The central building of Naritasan Shinshoji is the Main Hall (Daihondō).
Built in 1968, this majestic structure is the focal point for worshippers who come to pray before Fudō Myōō.
Goma fire rituals are held daily inside the hall, allowing visitors to experience the powerful ceremonies firsthand.
The hall is especially busy during New Year visits (hatsumōde), Setsubun, and other events.
2. Three-storied Pagoda
The three-storied pagoda near the Main Hall is an Important Cultural Property built in 1712.
Its vivid vermilion paint and exquisite carvings showcase the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.
The area around the pagoda is perfect for photography and is a well-loved spot for many visitors.
3. Naritasan Park
Behind the Main Hall lies Naritasan Park, an expansive garden covering about 160,000 square meters.
The park features ponds, waterfalls, and seasonal flowers, making a stroll through it very relaxing.
Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage are especially beautiful, and seasonal events are held throughout the year.
4. Niōmon Gate
The Niōmon Gate at the entrance to Naritasan Shinshoji is a historic gate rebuilt in 1831 and designated as a national Important Cultural Property.
Powerful Niō guardian statues welcome visitors and convey the temple’s grandeur.
Passing through the gate deepens the sense of the temple’s sacred atmosphere.
5. Great Peace Pagoda
Within the temple grounds stands the Great Peace Pagoda (Heiwa Daitō), built in 1984.
This tower was erected in prayer for world peace and houses exhibitions of Buddhist art as well as meditation spaces.
From the top floor of the pagoda you can enjoy panoramic views of Narita city.
Experiences to Enjoy at Naritasan Shinshoji
Matcha Tea Experience
Inside Naritasan Park is a tea house called “Akamatsuan,” where you can enjoy authentic matcha tea.
Sipping matcha while overlooking the Japanese garden provides a peaceful, special moment.
Observing the Goma Fire Ritual
Goma fire rituals are performed daily at Naritasan Shinshoji.
In this ceremony, the flames of Fudō Myōō are believed to burn away earthly desires and help fulfill prayers.
The powerful chanting and dramatic flames make this ritual a memorable experience for many visitors.
Access to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
By Train
- JR Narita Line — get off at “Narita Station,” or Keisei Electric Railway — get off at “Keisei Narita Station.”
- From the station it’s about a 10-minute walk along the approach (omotesandō) to Naritasan Shinshoji.
By Car
- About 10 minutes from the Higashi-Kantō Expressway “Narita IC.”
- There are many paid parking lots around the temple, but they can become crowded on weekends and during events, so public transportation is recommended.
Useful Information for Travelers
Opening Hours and Fees
- Visiting hours: The temple grounds are generally open 24 hours. Reception desks, shrine offices, and services such as goshuin (temple stamps) are approximately 8:00–16:00 (may vary by season or events).
- Admission fees: Visiting the temple grounds is free, but some services—such as the goma ritual or certain special exhibitions—may require a fee.
Nearby Attractions
- Naritasan Omotesando: A lively street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. It’s also famous for many eel (unagi) restaurants.
- Aerospace Science Museum: Located near Narita Airport, this museum is recommended for aviation enthusiasts.
Food Recommendations
- Narita unagi (eel): Fluffy, delicious eel dishes are a local specialty around Naritasan.
- Dango and wagashi (Japanese sweets): The approach is lined with sweet shops—perfect for sampling while strolling.
Frequently Asked Questions When Visiting Naritasan Shinshoji
Q. How can I avoid the crowds for New Year visits (hatsumōde)?
A. New Year’s is very crowded; visiting early in the morning or later in the evening usually makes for a smoother visit.
Q. Are there English guides or information?
Q. Are there English guides or information?
A. There are multilingual information boards on the grounds, including English, and pamphlets are available in English as well.
Q. Is the temple accessible for wheelchair users?
A. The temple grounds have barrier-free facilities, and wheelchair access is possible.
Conclusion
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a special place that captivates visitors with its magnificent architecture, long history, and calming natural surroundings.
Through experiences such as New Year visits, seasonal events, and the goma ritual, you can gain a deeper understanding of Japanese Buddhist culture.
Combine a visit to the temple with dining and shopping along Naritasan Omotesando for a memorable day out.
