Things To Do
in Narita

Narita, Japan, is a city located in Chiba Prefecture, known primarily for its international airport, Narita International Airport. The city is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, including the historic Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, which attracts numerous visitors each year. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, Narita offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern conveniences.

It serves as a convenient gateway for travelers looking to explore Tokyo and other regions of Japan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Narita's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, where you can explore the beautiful grounds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Narita Omotesando Street, lined with traditional shops and eateries, perfect for sampling local snacks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional izakaya, followed by a stroll through Narita Park to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Narita Yume Farm, where you can engage in fruit picking and learn about local agriculture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Boso no Mura, a historical village that showcases traditional crafts and architecture from the Edo period.

evening
:

Dine at a local sushi restaurant and enjoy a nightcap at a nearby sake bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a Restaurant$10-$30
🍣Sushi Dinner$20-$50
Coffee$3-$5
🚆Train Ticket to Tokyo$10-$15
🏨Hotel per Night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with many historical sites.
  • Convenient access to Narita International Airport.
  • Beautiful natural scenery throughout the year.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak travel seasons.
  • Public transportation may require transfers to reach some attractions.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Narita

Visit one of these nice places.

Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple

A stunning temple complex with beautiful architecture, gardens, and a large pagoda.

Narita Park

Offers picturesque views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Boso no Mura

A historical village that showcases traditional Japanese architecture and crafts, perfect for capturing the essence of Edo-era Japan.

Culinary Guide

Food in Narita

Narita boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors. Must-try dishes include unagi (grilled eel), soba (buckwheat noodles), and various types of sushi. Street food and markets offer delicious snacks like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). For those with dietary restrictions, many restaurants offer vegetarian options and can accommodate gluten-free requests.

Narita Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Unagi

Grilled eel served over rice, often enjoyed with a sweet soy-based sauce.

Must-Try!

Soba

Buckwheat noodles that can be served hot or cold, often accompanied by dipping sauce.

Taiyaki

Fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste or custard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Narita Omotesando

A street lined with shops and food stalls offering local snacks and delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Narita experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures averaging around 5°C (41°F). Summers (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Behavior

Always bow when greeting someone or thanking them, and avoid loud conversations in public.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet in Public Transport

Maintain a quiet demeanor on public transport and avoid talking on the phone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Narita is considered a very safe city with low crime rates. Common safety precautions include being aware of your surroundings, securing your belongings, and following local laws. Emergency numbers (110 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance) are easy to remember.

Tipping in Narita

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can even be considered rude; excellent service is expected.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable as some smaller establishments may not take cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms in late March to early April, particularly around Narita Park.

Summer

Hot and humid temperatures; enjoy outdoor festivals and fireworks.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, especially in November.

Winter

Mild winters; occasional snowfall, making it a serene time to visit temples.

Nightlife Guide

Narita at Night

Narita's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Tokyo, but it offers a few charming izakayas, local bars, and karaoke spots. You can enjoy a relaxed evening sampling sake and local dishes. The atmosphere is friendly, and many places are frequented by locals, giving you a taste of authentic Japanese culture.

Hiking in Narita

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Narita-san Hiking Trail

A scenic trail leading to the Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple, offering beautiful views and a serene walking experience.

Sakura-no-Yama Park

Features gentle hills and walking paths, perfect for a leisurely hike with views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Narita by plane.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

One of the main international airports serving Tokyo and the surrounding region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Narita is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian signals are common. However, some areas outside the center may require a bicycle or public transport for easier access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A mix of long-term residents and newcomers, with a strong sense of community and traditional values.

International Travelers

A diverse group passing through Narita, many of whom are en route to other destinations in Japan.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a widely popular sport in Japan, with both professional and amateur leagues actively playing.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys popularity, and local teams participate in various leagues, drawing enthusiastic supporters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Narita is generally manageable, especially compared to larger cities like Tokyo. Public transportation options include trains, buses, and taxis, making it easy to navigate the area. The train service to and from Narita International Airport is efficient and convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Narita.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly in traditional Japanese cuisine.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat can be a suitable choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Narita is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Emergency services can be accessed through the local hospital, and most healthcare providers speak basic English. Travel insurance is recommended for international visitors.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide