Narita
& Surrounds
Temples, canals, samurai trails, and 50 curated dining experiences across Narita, Sawara, Sakura, Kashiwa & Makuhari.
Category
Area
19 activities
Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
A magnificent Buddhist temple complex founded in 940 AD, centered on a statue of Fudo Myoo carved by the monk Kobo Daishi. Explore the grand main hall, a three-story pagoda, and the 165,000 m² Naritasan Park with its three ponds and seasonal flowers.
Tip: Arrive early morning to witness the Goma fire ritual — a powerful daily ceremony where wooden sticks are burned to the sound of chanting and taiko drums.
Katori Jingu Shrine
One of Japan's most ancient Shinto shrines with a history of over 2,600 years, dedicated to Futsunushi-no-Okami, deity of martial arts and national protection. The current main hall and vermilion gate date to 1700 and stand amid towering ancient cedars.
Tip: Take the community bus from JR Sawara Station (15 min). Free admission. Open 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Sawara Historic District
Known as 'Little Edo,' this beautifully preserved district along the Ono River canal showcases Edo-period merchant houses, dark wooden storehouses (kura), and traditional shops. A leisurely boat tour on the canal provides an immersive perspective of the town's heritage.
Tip: Boat tours depart from the Sawara Tourist Information Center. The district is most atmospheric in the early morning mist.
Sakura Samurai Houses
Among the last remaining samurai residences in Chiba Prefecture, three well-preserved houses are open to the public, offering an intimate look at the architecture and daily lives of samurai of different ranks during the Edo Period.
Tip: Combine with a walk along the nearby Hiyodori-zaka bamboo slope for a full samurai district experience.
Hiyodori-zaka Bamboo Slope
A narrow, atmospheric path lined with a dense bamboo forest that was once trodden by local samurai. The rustling of bamboo in the wind creates an unforgettable sensory experience, reminiscent of Kyoto's famous Arashiyama grove.
Tip: Visit in the early morning for the best light and atmosphere. The slope is a short walk from the samurai houses.
National Museum of Japanese History
Located on the grounds of the former Sakura Castle, this comprehensive museum covers Japanese history and culture from prehistoric times to the modern era across six permanent galleries. The castle moat and earthworks are still visible on the grounds.
Tip: Allow at least 3 hours. Closed Mondays. Admission ¥600 for adults.
Boso no Mura Open Air Museum
An open-air museum that recreates a traditional Edo-period Japanese village with over 30 historic buildings relocated from across Chiba Prefecture. Visitors can try traditional crafts such as indigo dyeing, pottery, and weaving in hands-on workshops.
Tip: Craft workshops require advance booking. The museum is a 10-minute bus ride from Kousagi-dai Station.
Teganuma Lake Cycling
A scenic cycling course encircling the beautiful Teganuma Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in the Kanto region. The flat, well-maintained path is suitable for all levels and offers stunning views of the lake, reed beds, and abundant birdlife.
Tip: Bicycle rentals are available near Kashiwa Station. The full loop is approximately 24 km.
Inbanuma Lake Cycling
A dedicated cycling road around the expansive Inbanuma Lake, offering views of the lake, a picturesque Dutch windmill, and the surrounding countryside. The route passes through charming rural villages and rice paddies.
Tip: The cycling road is approximately 28 km. The Dutch windmill at Suigo Sawara Aquatic Botanical Garden is a highlight.
Makuhari Seaside Park Cycling
A large coastal park along the shores of Tokyo Bay with long stretches of walking and cycling paths, green lawns, and beautiful ocean views. The park is especially stunning during the cosmos flower season in autumn.
Tip: Bike rentals are available at the park. The park is a 10-minute walk from Kaihin-Makuhari Station.
Naritasan Park Garden Walk
Explore the expansive 165,000 m² Japanese garden behind Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, featuring three ponds, a beautiful waterfall (Yuhi Falls), and a landscape that transforms dramatically with the seasons — plum and cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, fiery foliage in autumn.
Tip: Free entry. The garden is at its most spectacular during cherry blossom season (late March to early April).
Sawara Canal Boat Tour
Glide along the historic Ono River canal through the heart of the Sawara historic district in a traditional wooden boat, guided by a local boatman. The tour offers a unique water-level perspective of the Edo-period merchant houses and willow trees lining the banks.
Tip: Tours depart from near the Sawara Tourist Information Center. Duration approximately 30 minutes. Book in advance on weekends.
Inbanuma Lake Kayaking
Paddle across the serene Inbanuma Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Kanto region, surrounded by reed beds and home to a diverse array of migratory birds. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available from the lake's recreation area.
Tip: The lake is calm and suitable for beginners. Guided bird-watching kayak tours are available in the early morning.
Teganuma Lake Boating
Rent a rowboat or pedal boat on the scenic Teganuma Lake and explore its calm waters at your own pace. The lake is a designated Ramsar wetland site, making it an exceptional spot for observing rare waterbirds in their natural habitat.
Tip: Boat rentals are available at the Teganuma Recreation Area near Kashiwa-no-ha Campus Station.
Narita Omotesando
The historic pilgrimage street leading to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is lined with over 60 shops selling traditional crafts, narita-ume (plum) products, naritasan-yaki pottery, handmade candles, and local snacks. The street retains the atmosphere of an Edo-period temple town.
Tip: Look for shops selling narita-nori (dried seaweed) and peanut products — two of the area's most famous local specialties.
Shisui Premium Outlets
The outlet mall closest to Narita Airport, featuring over 220 stores with international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. It includes a food court with a variety of dining options and is easily accessible by bus from Narita Airport.
Tip: Free shuttle buses run from Narita Airport Terminal 1 and 2. Open daily 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Aeon Mall Narita
A large, modern shopping mall with a supermarket, department store, fashion brands, electronics, and a diverse food court. It serves as a convenient one-stop destination for everyday shopping and dining.
Tip: The supermarket in the basement is excellent for stocking up on Japanese snacks and local produce.
Mitsui Outlet Park Makuhari
A large outlet mall in the Makuhari area offering a good selection of Japanese and international fashion brands at discounted prices, alongside a variety of restaurants and cafes. The mall has a pleasant outdoor shopping street design.
Tip: Easily accessible from Kaihin-Makuhari Station. Open daily 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Kashiwa Takashimaya Station Mall
A prestigious department store and shopping mall directly connected to Kashiwa Station, featuring high-end fashion, cosmetics, a renowned food hall (depachika) with local and artisan products, and a wide range of restaurants.
Tip: The depachika (basement food hall) is a must-visit for Japanese sweets, prepared foods, and local specialties.