Trip Planner:   Asia  /  Japan  /  Kanto  /  Chiba Prefecture  /  Narita  /  Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple

Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, Narita

Must see · Historic Site · Landmark
Create an itinerary including Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple
One of the largest complexes of its kind in the country, Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple represents one of the country's most important religious sites. The 10th-century Shingon Buddhist temple, just a short jaunt from the city's airport, sits within sprawling grounds dotted with many shrines, halls, and pagodas, each featuring classic swooping rooftops adorned with gold and red accents. Don't miss the complex's main pagoda, a 58 m (190 ft) tall structure erected in the 1980s. Arrange to visit Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple and other attractions in Narita using our Narita vacation maker tool.
Improve this listing »
Create a full itinerary - for free!

Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
2,170 reviews
Google
4.4
TripAdvisor
  • If you are staying in the Narita area, this is a place you should not missed. The temple is a nice quiet place with a nature park behind the temple which you can stroll around for a few hours. If you....  more
    If you are staying in the Narita area, this is a place you should not missed. The temple is a nice quiet place with a nature park behind the temple which you can stroll around for a few hours. If you....  more »
  • One of many shrines in the Narita complex, it is a lovely example of Japanese style temples with all the outside structures painted. You can only walk around it but that is enough. 
    One of many shrines in the Narita complex, it is a lovely example of Japanese style temples with all the outside structures painted. You can only walk around it but that is enough.  more »
  • It is a very famous temple that every Japanese knows. I have never been there in the past. I went here for the first time on the way back to Narita International Airport. There were so many... 
    It is a very famous temple that every Japanese knows. I have never been there in the past. I went here for the first time on the way back to Narita International Airport. There were so many...  more »
Google
  • We landed in the Narita airport and decided to stay close by for the first night. To our delight and totally unplanned we discovered that there was a beautiful temple and park within 18 minutes walking distance of our hotel. We decided to pay a visit in the morning before taking the bus to Tokyo. A walk through the impressive landscaped grounds surrounding the temple was our first exposure to Japan and left an indelible impression. Very symbolic of the splendid beauty to be found throughout this beautiful country.
  • Center of belief in Narita area. Very close to the airport. Worth half a day trip if you have time to spare before boarding. The busy street leading from the train station to the temple is lively. Lots of famous eel restaurants among the road. Be sure to take a tour inside the pagoda at the top of the hill. There's also a museum worth visiting located inside the park.
  • A must visit during a Tokyo stay. Visit the huge grounds of old Narita Temple. See the temple and out buildings and if you are lucky enough, the monks will be in procession. You could spend days walking the beautiful, serene grounds and not see it all. From the lush greenery to the ponds, it's a beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
  • One of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I felt like I had gone back in time. It is a very quiet place. There is only the sound of flowing water and the sound of birds in the whole environment.
  • The temple grounds are sprawling, with a large main hall, a pagoda, and a variety of other structures. The grounds are also home to a variety of statues, including several of the famous Naritasan Buddha. The temple is known for its impressive traditional architecture, and it is a great place to take a moment and admire the surrounding beauty. I attended the big temple ceremony at Naritasan Shinsho-ji. It was an amazing experience that I won’t soon forget. The ceremony began with slow plings of the bell to very soon switch to the amazing sound of a drum reverberating through the air. The drum had such an impact that I found myself lost in the sound. As the ceremony progressed, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The temple itself is incredibly beautiful. The traditional architecture is stunning, and the grounds are well kept. I was especially impressed by the pagoda, which is a magnificent sight. One of the most interesting aspects of the temple is the tradition of bringing coins to donate to the temple and receiving a blessing through a bath in incense. This is a great way to show respect for the temple and to gain a sense of peace and serenity. Overall, Naritasan Shinsho-ji is an incredible experience. The traditional architecture, the big temple ceremony, and the chance to offer a donation and receive a blessing are all reasons to visit this wonderful temple. It is a great place to appreciate Japanese culture, as well as a great place to take a moment to reflect and find peace.

Plan your trip to Narita

  • Get a personalized trip
    A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences
  • Customize it
    Refine your trip. We'll find the
    best routes and schedules
  • Book it
    Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off
  • Manage it
    Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.