Things To Do
in Narita
Narita is a peaceful city just east of Tokyo, anchored by the world-class Narita International Airport and a rich temple-town heritage. It blends centuries-old shrines with a laid-back town atmosphere and easy access to Tokyo via rail. The Narita-San area offers a well-preserved glimpse into traditional Japan, while the surrounding countryside provides tranquil coastal and rural landscapes.
Visitors can easily combine cultural sights with convenient gateway access to the greater Tokyo region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, one of the most significant temples in the area. Wander through the serene temple grounds, taking in the beautiful architecture and peaceful ambiance. Don’t forget to try the freshly made yakitori from local vendors as you stroll through the vibrant approach to the temple.
After lunch at a nearby soba restaurant, take a leisurely walk through Narita's historic streets, where traditional buildings and shops line the roads. Visit the Narita Yokan Museum to learn about the history of this beloved sweet and perhaps sample a few varieties. As you explore, keep an eye out for local artisans showcasing their crafts.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Narita Omotesando for dinner at a traditional izakaya. Enjoy dishes made from seasonal ingredients while soaking in the warm, inviting atmosphere of this local dining spot. After dinner, take a peaceful evening stroll back to the temple, now beautifully illuminated, providing a magical end to your day.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in Narita Park, where cherry blossoms bloom in spring and vibrant foliage paints the landscape in autumn. Enjoy the peaceful lakeside views while observing local wildlife, including various birds and turtles. Take a moment to meditate or practice yoga amid the natural beauty.
After a picnic lunch in the park, visit the Narita Dream Farm, where you can interact with farm animals and even try your hand at making cheese or ice cream. This hands-on experience will connect you with local agriculture and provide a tasty treat for the afternoon. Explore the farm's lovely gardens before heading back to the city.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a local café for a cup of matcha or fresh coffee. Reflect on your day surrounded by the warm glow of the café’s ambiance, and perhaps indulge in a slice of homemade cake. If you're feeling adventurous, join a local ghost tour in Narita, exploring the legends and stories that haunt the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍣Sushi or casual meal for two | $25-50 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Temple/museum entrance | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Tokyo and Haneda by rail
- Airport access makes onward travel easy
- Calm, less crowded than central Tokyo
- Rich temple-town culture and traditional shopping
- Limited nightlife and dining options after dark
- Weather can be humid in summer; rail schedules may be busy during peak travel periods
- Public transit can be crowded during holiday seasons
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please (do this)
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Koko wa doko desu ka?" - Where is this place?
- "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Narita
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic temple complex with vermilion gates, stone lanterns, and serene gardens; early morning light is ideal for photography.
Historic street lined with traditional shops and craft storefronts; great for candid street photography and street food scenes.
Plane-spotting decks offering views of runways and taxiing aircraft; best during golden hour and on clear days.
Food in Narita
Narita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Buckwheat noodles served in local soba shops along Narita Omotesando, often topped with scallions and tempura bits.
Must-Try!
Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, commonly served over rice in specialized eateries.
Light, crispy battered vegetables or seafood, typically enjoyed with a dipping sauce or on a set meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional stalls along the temple approach offering dango, taiyaki, fresh fried snacks, and souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow is a common sign of respect; handshake is less common among locals; use -san as a polite suffix after names.
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples, and some traditional eateries; use provided slippers where available.
Keep voices low on trains and in sacred spaces; avoid loud conversations in public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Narita
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is often politely declined. In some high-end services, rounding up is acceptable.
Cash is widely accepted; IC cards (Suica/PASMO) work in many shops; major credit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; carry yen for small vendors and temples.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and mild temperatures; brief showers are possible; wear comfortable layers and shoot near temples for soft light.
Warm to hot and humid; plan outdoor visits for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage around temple grounds; ideal for landscape and temple photography.
Cool and dry or damp; fewer crowds at major sights; a light coat is enough and roofs may carry light frost after rare snow.
Narita at Night
Hiking in Narita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered hill in Futtsu with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay; a popular day hike with stairs and lookout platforms.
Coastal hike along the Kujukuri Beach area with sea views and dunes; accessible via local trains and buses.
Airports
How to reach Narita by plane.
Major international hub serving Tokyo; accessible by JR and Keisei lines; allow extra time for security screening.
Closer to central Tokyo with domestic and some international flights; reachable from Narita via rail or bus options; often shorter transit into the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Japanese, with growing families, retirees, and a steady presence of airport-related workers.
Large influx due to Narita Airport; English-friendly services are common in airport zones and major hotels.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime across the region; local schools and clubs host games and community events.
Active involvement at school and community levels; local clubs frequently run programs.
Coastal and inland courses in Chiba offer scenic rounds with sea breezes; many courses are within driving distance of Narita.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Narita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in temple-area eateries; seek shojin ryori or request vegetable tempura, tofu, and rice; communicate dietary needs clearly in Japanese.