Narita

Introduction

With a population of about 120,000^[1], Narita is a small city in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. It is located about an hour east of Tokyo by train. The town is most well known as the location of Narita International Airport. This is the closest international airport to Tokyo and a major hub for flights into and out of Japan. The airport receives approximately 82,000 visitors each day, many of whom visit Narita City or travel through there on their way to or from Tokyo ^[2].

Neighbourhoods

Sights and Activities

This is a great city to visit if you only have a few hours to spend while waiting for a flight out of Narita Airport. In only a few short hours you can take in most of what the city has to offer. On the way to the temple grounds, you could explore the shops lining Omotesando Dori, the street which winds away from the train station toward Naritasan Temple. Omotesando is lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. These shops may be a little more pricey than some of those you might find further away from the airport (like those in Asakusa). However, for convenience they cannot be beat.

The main attraction in Narita City is the Naritasan temple complex. The temple grounds contain several temples and beautiful gardens, including a large pond and waterfalls. On the way to the pond, you will see an interesting juxtaposition of European and Japanese style gardens. If you have more time in Narita, you can explore some of the other parks in the city as well. See the city's website for more information.

Events and Festivals

There are festival options throughout the year at Narita City^[3].

• January 1-3, about 3 million people visit the temple to bring in the New Year.
• In February, the Chinese new year is celebrated.
• February to March, a plum festival takes place (Ume Festival).
• As with much of Japan, April brings the Sakura (cherry blossom) viewing season.
• In Mid April, a taiko drum festival.
• The largest festival is the Narita Gion Festival in early July.
• In August, we see the Narita Furusato summer festival.
• Finally, the Otaiyasai Festival in September includes a parade, fireworks and other festivities.

For more information on festivals in Narita, visit the city's website.

Weather

Narita sees a relatively temperate climate. However, there are definite seasons. Though not as extreme as areas in northern and southern Japan, this region sees cool winters that sometimes include snow as well as hot muggy summers. The summer is generally the rainiest season here and throughout Japan.

Getting There

By Plane

Narita Airport is one of the main gateways to Japan and has dozens of destinations throughout Japan and to other Asian, European, Australian and North American cities. Check the Narita Airport article for more information.

By Train

The easiest way to get to Narita City both from Tokyo and from the airport is to take JR and Keisei trains. They only take 10 minutes from the airport with the Keisei Limited Express providing the most frequent service.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Car

By Public Transport

For any sites further out, there are city buses.

By Foot

The best way to get around is on foot. The major sites (Omotesando Dori and Naritasan Temple) are within walking distance of the train station.

By Bike

Eat and Drink

There are many restaurants, convenience stores and food stalls near the train station and along the main street to the temple, Omotesando Dori. Note that most of the stores along Omotesando are not open in the mornings.

Sleep

Being close to the airport, there are many hotel options nearby. Several of these are close to the train station. One nice thing about staying near Narita station is that it is far enough from the airport to be fairly quiet.

Work

Learn

Keep Connected

Internet

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

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