Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of Japan’s most visited temples, welcoming approximately 10 million visitors every year. Its vast grounds are home to 5 nationally designated Important Cultural Properties, along with countless other highlights waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every must-see spot along the pilgrimage route — from the Somon Gate all the way to the inner precincts. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to find. 🙏
🏯 The Gates: Where Your Pilgrimage Begins
Somon Gate (総門)
Built in 2007, the Somon is the grand front entrance to Naritasan. Standing 15 meters tall, this impressive gate is the first thing that welcomes pilgrims to the temple grounds. On either side stand the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno), guardians of the temple.
Once you pass through the Somon, a steep stone stairway leads up toward the next gate — the Niomon.
Niomon Gate (仁王門) — Important Cultural Property
Rebuilt in 1831, the Niomon is one of Naritasan’s most iconic gates and is designated a National Important Cultural Property.
Flanking the gate are two powerful Nio guardian statues, warding off evil spirits. On the inner side stand Komoku-ten and Tamon-ten, forming a four-directional protective formation.
Look up to spot the massive goldfish lantern hanging overhead — donated by Edo-era fishermen from the Sumida River.
The Main Hall: Heart of Naritasan
Daihondo — Main Hall (大本堂)
Climb the 53 stone steps past the Niomon, and you’ll arrive at the Daihondo — the spiritual heart of Naritasan.
Built in 1968 and designed by master architect Yoshida Isoya, the hall enshrines the principal deity Fudo Myoo. Multiple Goma fire rituals are performed here each day — free to attend, no reservation needed!
The 5 Important Cultural Properties
Naritasan Shinshoji is home to 5 buildings designated as National Important Cultural Properties in 1980.
1. Three-Story Pagoda (三重塔) — Built 1712
Standing about 25 meters tall, this ornate pagoda features vibrant decorations and intricate carvings. Inside enshrines the Five Wisdom Buddhas. Don’t miss the dragon carving above the front entrance!
2. Shakado (釈迦堂) — Built 1858
The former main hall of Naritasan. Its outer walls are covered in breathtaking relief carvings of 500 Arhats — a true masterpiece of late-Edo craftsmanship.
3. Komyodo (光明堂) — Built 1701
The oldest existing building on the grounds, enshrining Dainichi Nyorai and Aizen Myoo. Popular among visitors praying for love and good relationships.
4. Gakudo (額堂) — Built 1861
A hall for votive tablets and wooden plaques. Features a stone statue of kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjuro VII, reflecting the deep bond between the kabuki world and Naritasan.
5. Niomon Gate (仁王門) — Built 1831
Already introduced above — one of the most photographed spots at the temple!
Further In: The Peace Pagoda & Naritasan Park
Peace Great Pagoda (平和の大塔)
Built in 1984, this 58-meter landmark is visible from anywhere on the grounds. Inside has 5 floors with Buddhist art, history exhibits, and a sutra-copying experience open to all.
Shutsuse Inari Shrine (出世稲荷)
A beloved shrine for business prosperity and good luck. Unique in that it’s a Shinto shrine within a Buddhist temple — a fascinating piece of Japan’s religious history.
Naritasan Park (成田山公園)
A vast Japanese garden of 165,000 m² (about 3.5x Tokyo Dome) adjacent to the temple. Plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, wisteria, and autumn leaves offer beautiful scenery year-round.
Recommended Pilgrimage Route
- Somon Gate (Start)
- Niomon Gate (Important Cultural Property)
- Daihondo / Main Hall (watch the Goma fire ritual)
- Three-Story Pagoda (Important Cultural Property)
- Shutsuse Inari Shrine
- Shakado (Important Cultural Property)
- Komyodo (Important Cultural Property)
- Gakudo (Important Cultural Property)
- Peace Great Pagoda (sutra copying)
- Naritasan Park (stroll)
Estimated time: About 1 to 1.5 hours (add 30–60 min for the park)
Wrapping Up
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is packed with incredible sights — 5 National Important Cultural Properties, a soaring 58-meter pagoda, and a beautiful seasonal garden. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover.
The Goma fire ritual at the Main Hall is especially unmissable — free, open to all, and a deeply moving spiritual experience. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring this 1,000-year-old sacred place. 🙏✨
🎯 Want a Guided Tour of Naritasan?
If you’d like to explore Naritasan Shinshoji Temple with an expert English-speaking guide, a private guided tour is a fantastic option — especially if you’re on a layover at Narita Airport!
👉 Narita Airport Layover Transit: Guided Private Tour on Klook
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