Got a layover Narita? Instead of wasting time at the airport, explore Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, just 30 minutes away. This ancient temple, founded in 940 AD, offers a peaceful break from travel stress.
In this guide, we’ll help you make your layover unforgettable. No need for overpriced airport sandwiches or boring waiting areas. Are you ready to discover your unique Narita layover itinerary? Let’s start!
Why Narita Layovers Deserve Attention
When you have a layover in Narita, don’t just stay in the airport. Go explore! Narita is more than just an airport, and it’s got a hidden gem just minutes away.
Naritasan Temple is a must-see. Standing over a thousand years old (and still looking great for its age), it draws visitors with its detailed designs and gardens. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and pretend you’re on a real vacation.
No fancy tours truly necessary for this but you can enrich your experience with this customizable Naritasan Temple walking tour.
Naritasan Temple Overview
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a historical treasure, founded in 940 AD. It boasts stunning pagodas and impressive statues, swords, etc.
Not entirely sure what the deal was with the sword, but the Komyo-do Hall definitely seemed like a significant point of interest.
Explanation boards in English were scarce when I visited. Which is why it’s always good to have Google translate‘s camera feature ready for action—unless you enjoy guessing your way through history.
Walking through the peaceful park is a literal breath of fresh air. You’ll see beautifully landscaped gardens and tranquil ponds. Beats pacing around an airport terminal.
Snack Like You Mean It
And what better way to level up your Narita layover than with a mini food tour? Forget sad airport sandwiches—it’s time to snack like a pro near Naritasan Temple.
First up: freshly grilled eel (unagi). Smoky, glazed, and served over rice, it’s a full-on meal. Not that hungry? No worries—move on to…
Giant rice crackers (senbei). Crunchy, flavorful, and available in a variety of flavors, these are perfect for snacking while wandering the temple grounds… just not near the prayer areas.
Mochi magic. These chewy rice cakes are soft, sticky, and ridiculously addictive.
You’ll leave with a happy stomach and a way better story than “I sat at Gate 23 for three hours.”
Getting There: Transportation Options
Ready to explore? Getting to Naritasan Temple is easy. The Narita airport layover guide has you covered with many options. Trains are quick, taking about 10 minutes to Narita Station. From there, it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the temple. So almost a 30 minute trip in total.
Want an easy ride? Check the airport’s shuttle and bus services. They may offer direct trips to the temple. Just check the schedule for a smooth ride.
Need more freedom? Taxis are available at the airport. They’re a bit more expensive but offer door-to-door service. You can kick back and relax on your way to the temple. No matter your choice, your trip to Naritasan Temple is easy and fun during your layover.
Thank you for reading! And as always, feel free to leave your comments down below or contact me anytime at chesco@japangeneration.com 🙂
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