Sightseeing spot around Narita Airport

Narita Airport is a major gateway to Japan, but did you know there are some fantastic spots to explore right around the airport itself? If you have a layover or just want to see something before heading into Tokyo, here are a few easily accessible and enjoyable places for foreign tourists.

Tourist Spots Near Narita Airport

1. Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple (成田山新勝寺) & Omotesando Street

This is by far the most famous and recommended spot near Narita Airport. Naritasan Shinsho-ji is a large and impressive Buddhist temple complex with a history of over 1,000 years. The walk to the temple, called Omotesando Street, is just as charming!

• What to see/do:

  • Naritasan Shinsho-ji Temple: Explore beautiful temple buildings, pagodas, a large park with waterfalls, and participate in a Goma fire ritual if you're interested (check times).

  • Omotesando Street (表参道): This lively street leading to the temple is lined with traditional shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious food like unagi (eel), senbei (rice crackers), and yokan (sweet bean jelly). It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and experiencing traditional Japan.

• Getting there: Take the JR Narita Line or Keisei Line from Narita Airport Station to Narita Station (成田駅). The temple and Omotesando Street are about a 10-15 minute walk from Narita Station.

• Time needed: 2-4 hours, depending on how much you explore.

2. AEON Mall Narita

If you're looking for a more modern shopping and dining experience, AEON Mall Narita is a large shopping complex with a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and a supermarket.

• What to see/do:

  • Shopping: Find everything from fashion and cosmetics to electronics and Japanese goods.

  • Dining: Enjoy a casual meal at one of the many restaurants or the food court, offering Japanese and international cuisine.

  • Supermarket: A great place to buy Japanese snacks, drinks, and daily necessities to take home or enjoy during your stay.

• Getting there: Take a local bus from Narita Airport (Terminal 1 or 2/3) directly to AEON Mall Narita. Look for bus stops for "AEON Mall."

• Time needed: 1-3 hours, depending on your shopping interest.

3. Sakura no Yama Park (さくらの山公園)

For aviation enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing spot with a view, Sakura no Yama Park offers fantastic panoramic views of airplanes taking off and landing at Narita Airport.

• What to see/do:

  • Plane Spotting: Get up close to the runways and watch planes. It's a popular spot for photography.

  • Relaxation: Enjoy the open green space, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season (late March to early April). There's also a small shop selling local produce and souvenirs.

• Getting there: This park is a bit further and less directly accessible by public transport. A taxi from Narita Airport or Narita Station is the most convenient option (approx. 10-15 minutes). Some local buses might also go nearby, but they are less frequent.

• Time needed: 1-2 hours.

Tips for Exploring Near Narita Airport:

• Check Luggage: Many hotels in the airport vicinity offer luggage storage, or you can use coin lockers at the airport itself.

• Time Management: Be sure to factor in travel time to and from the airport, security checks, and check-in times for your next flight.

• Currency: Have some Japanese Yen (JPY) ready for transportation, food, and shopping, although credit cards are widely accepted at larger establishments.

• Free Wi-Fi: Haneda Airport and many of these locations offer free Wi-Fi.

Enjoy your visit to Japan, even if it's just a quick stop around Narita Airport!