Did you know that one of Japan’s most famous temples is just minutes from Narita Airport?
If you have a layover or some extra time before or after your flight, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is the perfect side trip. It’s closer than you’d think — and easier to reach than you might expect! Here’s everything you need to know. ✈️
🚃 Getting There by Train (Recommended!)
The train is by far the easiest and most convenient option. From Narita Airport, you can reach Narita Station using either the JR Line or Keikyu Line.
Option 1: JR Narita Line
- Route: Narita Airport Station → Narita Station
- Travel time: About 10–15 minutes
- Fare: ¥330 (as of 2024)
- Frequent departures — very easy to use!
Option 2: Keikyu Line
- Route: Keikyu Narita Airport Station → Keikyu Narita Station
- Travel time: About 10 minutes
- Fare: ¥270 (as of 2024)
- ⚠️ Important: The Skyliner express does NOT stop at Narita Station. Make sure to take the local or rapid train instead.
Both options take about the same time, so just hop on whichever train comes first!
🚌 Getting There by Bus
The Chiba Flower Bus connects Narita Airport to the area around Naritasan Temple, with some routes stopping very close to the temple itself.
- Travel time: About 20–30 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Fare: Similar to the train
- Great option if you have heavy luggage, since you can sit comfortably the whole way
Just check the timetable in advance, as buses run less frequently than trains.
🚕 Getting There by Taxi or Car
If you’re traveling in a group or have a lot of bags, a taxi can be a convenient choice.
- Travel time: About 15–20 minutes (the distance is around 10 km)
- Estimated taxi fare: ¥3,000–¥4,000
- By car: Paid parking is available near Naritasan Park (note: it can get very crowded during New Year’s and other busy seasons)
⚠️ Avoid driving during New Year’s (Oshogatsu) — the roads around the temple can be extremely congested!
🚶 Walking from Narita Station to the Temple
Once you arrive at Narita Station (by train or bus), the temple is about a 15–20 minute walk away — and trust us, the walk itself is part of the fun! 😊
The path to the temple follows the Omotesando (traditional approach road), a charming street lined with old-fashioned shops and restaurants stretching about 800 meters. You’ll find:
- 🍣 Famous Narita-style eel (unagi) restaurants — the aroma alone will stop you in your tracks!
- 🥒 Local pickle shops with free samples
- 🍡 Traditional Japanese sweets and snacks
- 🏘️ Beautiful historic townscape full of old-world charm
Wear comfortable shoes — there’s a gentle slope along the way.
⏱️ Quick Reference: Time & Cost Summary
| Transport | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| JR Narita Line | 25–30 min (incl. walk) | From ¥330 |
| Keikyu Line | 25–30 min (incl. walk) | From ¥270 |
| Bus | 30–40 min | From ¥400 |
| Taxi | 15–20 min | ¥3,000–¥4,000 |
📌 Tips & Things to Watch Out For
✅ Naritasan is surprisingly close to the airport — perfect for long layovers or a quick detour before your flight
✅ Use coin lockers at Narita Station if you have heavy luggage — you’ll enjoy the walk much more without it!
✅ The temple grounds are huge — plan to spend at least 1–2 hours exploring
⚠️ Don’t take the Skyliner — it bypasses Narita Station
⚠️ Expect big crowds during New Year’s (January 1–3), Setsubun (early February), and other major holidays — leave plenty of extra time
✨ Wrapping Up
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is only about 10–15 minutes from Narita Airport by train — making it one of the easiest cultural detours you can make in Japan. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or just passing through, this 1,000-year-old temple is absolutely worth a visit.
Stroll the historic Omotesando, grab some freshly grilled eel, pick up a lucky charm (omamori), and experience a side of Japan that most tourists rush right past. 🙏✨
Have a wonderful visit to Naritasan!
🎯 Want a Guided Tour?
If you’d prefer to skip the navigation and enjoy a hassle-free experience, a private guided tour from Narita Airport is a great option!
👉 Narita Airport Layover Transit: Guided Private Tour on Klook
* This post contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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