Narita: More Than Just the Airport — Temples and Unagi Eels

The Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

Most travelers know Narita as the name printed on their boarding passs. However, this small city, just an hour outside of Tokyo, offers much more than just a transit point. Narita is home to ancient temples, serene streets lined with history, and one of Japan’s most beloved dishes: unagi (grilled eel). If you’re ever in the area for a layover or an extended stay, you’ll find that Narita is worth exploring beyond the terminal.

The Majestic Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

At the heart of Narita is Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a massive Buddhist complex that dates back over a thousand years. This tranquil temple is more than just a place of worship; it’s a spiritual hub that draws millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most important temples in Japan. The temple’s grand sanmon gate, serene gardens, and impressive five-story pagoda are just a few of the highlights.

Walking through the temple grounds, you can feel the deep sense of history and spirituality. Whether you’re seeking inner peace, admiring the architecture, or simply enjoying a quiet stroll, Naritasan Shinshoji offers a restorative escape from the modern world.

Exploring Narita’s Omotesando Street

The Omotesando Street

Leading up to the temple is Omotesando Street, a charming old road lined with traditional wooden buildings, shops, snack stalls, and restaurants. One of the area’s most famous culinary offerings? Unagi.

Unagi: A Local Delicacy in Narita

An Unaju ©Wikimedia Commons photo by Naotake Murayama

Unagi in Narita is more than just a dish — it’s a deeply rooted tradition. Historically, it gained popularity among pilgrims visiting the temple who needed a nutritious, energy-packed meal. Today, the scent of unagi grilling over charcoal drifts through the air as you stroll along Omotesando.

Unaju(grilled eel over rice) is a specialty here, usually served glazed with a rich, sweet-savory tare sauce. It’s smoky, tender, and full of flavor. Many restaurants in the area have been preparing eel for generations, and it shows.

Confession: I haven’t tried it myself yet — the price is a little steep — but just watching the chefs work and catching that signature aroma is enough to make your mouth water.

During Doyo-no-Ushi-no-Hi (the Day of the Ox), many Japanese people traditionally eat unagi to build stamina in the heat. If you visit in summer, expect long lines and even longer aromas.

Why Narita’s Temples and Unagi Matter

Narita blends spirituality and culinary heritage in a way few cities can. While many travelers rush through the airport to their next destination, Narita invites you to slow down, reflect, and taste something truly local.

The peaceful energy of Naritasan Temple complements the deep flavors of its signature dish. Whether you’re here for a spiritual recharge or a cultural snack, this city offers an immersive experience in Japan’s quieter traditions.

A Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Explored

Next time you find yourself at Narita Airport, consider taking a short trip into town. You might come for a quick walk, but you’ll stay for the peaceful temples, Edo-period streets, and the rich smell of grilled eel drifting through the air.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or making a day of it, Narita city proves that it’s more than just an airport — it’s a destination all its own.

Tips for Visiting Narita’s Temples and Unagi Restaurants

• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays are quieter. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms to the temple grounds.
• Where to Eat: Try any of the longstanding unagi restaurants on Omotesando — some have been around for over a century.
• Budget Option: Look for unagi skewers from street vendors if you want a taste without the full meal price.
• Local Etiquette: Dress modestly if you’re entering temple grounds, and be respectful during rituals or prayers.

Getting to Narita City: More Than Just a Layover

Reaching Narita city is easy and absolutely worth the effort — whether you’re planning a quick visit between flights or looking for a peaceful cultural day trip from Tokyo.

From Tokyo to Narita City by Train

JR Sobu Rapid Line

• From: Tokyo or Shinagawa Station
• To: Narita Station
• Time: Around 90 minutes
• Cost: ~¥1,000
• Why Go This Route?: It drops you right into Narita’s city center — just a short walk to the temples and Omotesando.

Keisei Main Line (Limited Express or Local)

• From: Ueno or Nippori Station
• To: Keisei Narita Station
• Time: ~70–80 minutes
• Cost: ~¥800–¥1,000
• What to Know: Budget-friendly and efficient. Keisei Narita Station is only minutes away from JR Narita Station, and both are convenient starting points for sightseeing.

⚠️ Heads-up: The Keisei Skyliner, the Keisei Access Express and the JR Narita Express bypasses Narita city entirely and goes straight to the airport. Be sure to board a regular limited express or local Keisei or JR train instead.

From Narita Airport to Narita City

If you’re already at the airport and have time to spare, you’re in luck. Narita city is just one stop away.

• Lines: JR Narita Line or Keisei Narita Line (not the Narita SkyAccess Line)
• Time: About 10 minutes
• Cost: Around ¥200–¥250
• Pro Tip: Trains run frequently and both stations are within easy walking distance of Naritasan Temple and Omotesando Street.

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