Narita Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options in Narita, Chiba, Japan.


Introduction to Narita

Narita is a beautiful city located in Chiba prefecture, Japan. It is the gateway to Japan for many international tourists as it is home to Narita International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in Asia. The city offers a unique blend of modern living and traditional culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds.

List of Places to Visit in Narita

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Narita is home to several culturally important attractions, including museums and historical places. Here are some of the must-visit places:

  • Naritasan Shinshoji Temple: This temple is one of the most famous and visited temples in Japan. It is known for its beautiful architecture, colorful gardens, and numerous events throughout the year.

  • Narita Omotesando: This bustling street is lined with traditional shops and is the perfect place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.

  • Narita City Historical Museum: It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Narita city and its people.

Natural Attractions of Narita: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Narita is surrounded by beautiful nature and scenic views that attract tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures and natural attractions in Narita:

  • Sakuranoyama Park: This park is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and provides a stunning backdrop for picnics and walks.

  • Boso no Mura Open Air Museum: It is a village-museum that replicates the way people lived during the Edo period. It offers a range of workshops and activities, making it an ideal destination for families.

  • Naritasan Park: A serene and picturesque place to enjoy nature, admire the beautiful garden, and peaceful pond.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Narita

Narita has several hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views and a chance to explore the local surroundings. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Narita:

  • Naritasan Park Trail: This trail is a leisurely walk in nature taking you around the pond and the glistening creek. It has beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring making it a popular spot to take photographs.

  • Shinsui Park to Sakura-no-Yama Park Trail: This is a medium-difficulty trail with a stunning view of nature from the top.

  • Narita Pelican Bike Path: It is a beginner-friendly bike path with beautiful views and plenty of picturesque stops.

Best Things to Do in Narita: Activities and Tours

Narita offers a range of activities and tours to suit different interests and preferences. From cultural experiences to food tours, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Narita:

  • Sake Brewery Tour: Learn about the history and significance of sake in Japanese culture, and taste some varieties of sake at a local brewery.

  • Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum: Take part in traditional workshops like pottery, indigo dying, and weaving.

  • Narita Gion Festival: One of the most popular and grand festivals in Narita, where you can enjoy the colorful procession of people wearing traditional Japanese attire.

Week-Long Itinerary for Narita

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Narita:

Day 1-2: Visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and Narita Omotesando. Attend one of the many events and festivals taking place in the temple.

Day 3-4: Explore the outdoors with a visit to Sakuranoyama Park, Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum, and Naritasan Park.

Day 5-6: Take part in a sake brewery tour, and visit the Narita Gion Festival if it is in session

Day 7: End your week-long trip to Narita by exploring the local shopping streets for the perfect souvenirs and enjoying local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Narita

Must-Try Dishes

Narita has a rich culinary history, and it is reflected in the city’s diverse food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting Narita:

  • Unagi (Grilled eel): It is a delicacy in Japan, and Narita is famous for its mouth-watering unagi dishes.

  • Ramen: Ramen is a famous noodle soup in Japan, and Narita has its version of this dish.

  • Shrimp Tempura: Narita is famous for its fresh shrimp tempura, which is deep-fried in a light batter and served with dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

Sake: Sake is a well-known alcoholic drink in Japan, and Narita is home to several local sake breweries. You cannot leave Nagoya without sampling some of their famous sake variants.

Where to Stay in Narita: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Narita caters to all types of travelers, from budget to luxury. Here are some of the best places to stay in Narita:

  • ANA Crowne Plaza Narita: A luxury hotel with world-class amenities and a convenient location.

  • Narita Tobu Hotel Airport: A budget-friendly hotel located next to Narita International Airport.

  • Backstage Hotel: A stylish, modern hostel with a great atmosphere and fantastic amenities.

What to Buy in Narita: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Narita has a range of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts or mementos of your trip. Here are some recommendations:

  • Edo kiriko glassware: These are traditional cut glassware that originated in Tokyo during the Edo period.

  • Japanese sweets: Dagashi snacks, shirasu senbei, and yokan are some of the sweet treats that you can take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Narita

Narita has a distinctive culture and customs that are different from other parts of Japan. Here are some customs to be aware of when traveling to Narita:

  • Bowing: Bowing is a sign of respect in Japan, and it is customary to bow when greeting someone.

  • Shoes off: It is customary to remove shoes before entering some places in Narita, including temples and traditional restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Narita

The best time to visit Narita is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and are characterized by beautiful nature and seasonal events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Narita

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Narita:

Do:

  • Take off your shoes when entering traditional Japanese buildings or homes.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Enter sacred areas without permission.

  • Touch or move anything in Japanese Shrines or Temples.

  • Smoke in public places in Narita.

Safety and Health

Safety in Narita

Narita is a safe destination with a low crime rate. However, it is advisable to take standard safety precautions when traveling, such as keeping your valuable items safe and avoiding unlit or deserted areas.

Health in Narita

Narita is a healthy destination with no need for special vaccinations. However, it is advisable to bring essential medicines for common illnesses like cold, fever, diarrhea, and headache when traveling.

Getting to Narita: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Narita

Narita International Airport is the closest and most convenient airport for travelers to Narita.

Bus Stations Near Narita

Narita city has several bus stations, including Narita Station East Exit Bus Terminal and Terminal 2 Bus Stop.

Other Options

Other transportation options include trains, taxis, and rental cars.

How to Get Around in Narita

Getting around in Narita is easy and affordable, with a well-developed transportation system. Here are some transportation options:

  • Train: Narita is well-connected via rail, with several train lines running through the city.

  • Bus: Bus services operate throughout the city, and it is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around.

Where to Go Next from Narita: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Narita is located close to several popular destinations in Japan, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Here are some places to visit near Narita:

  • Tokyo: Japan’s capital city is a bustling metropolis with a diverse range of attractions and activities, including skyscrapers, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences.

  • Kamakura: This city is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and temples. It is less than two hours from Narita.

Conclusion

Narita is a fascinating city that offers a perfect blend of traditional and modern experiences. From exploring the outdoors to tasting local cuisine, this city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and experience the magic of Narita, Japan!

Omote-sandō, leading to Narita Shinsho-ji Omote-sandō, leading to Narita Shinsho-ji Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple Narita-san Shinsho-ji Temple