10 Exciting Things To Do Around Narita Airport That You Don't Want To Miss!

Narita Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan, serving millions of travelers every year. While many visitors rush to catch their connecting flights or head into the bustling city of Tokyo, there are plenty of exciting things to do around Narita that are often overlooked. Whether you have a long layover or simply want to explore the area, here are 10 exciting activities that you don't want to miss. From historic temples to delicious food and unique shopping experiences, Narita has something for every kind of traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gems of this vibrant airport town!

Visit the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

When you have some layover time to spare during a trip to Japan, one great option to consider is a visit to the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple near Narita Airport. This temple is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Japan, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Located just 10 minutes by train from Narita Airport, the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a serene and peaceful sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of modern Japan. The temple was founded in 940 AD and has a rich history as a center of learning and culture.

Visitors to the temple can spend hours exploring the beautiful grounds, which are filled with stunning gardens, stone lanterns, and traditional Japanese architecture. The main hall of the temple is an impressive structure with bright red pillars and ornate decorations. Inside the hall, visitors can observe monks performing traditional Buddhist ceremonies and rituals.

One of the must-see attractions at the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is the Great Pagoda of Peace, a towering five-story pagoda that stands at 58 meters tall. This pagoda, which was completed in 1984, is the tallest wooden structure in Japan and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Another popular attraction at the temple is the Omotesando shopping street, which is lined with local shops and restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine. Visitors can sample snacks like rice crackers and deep-fried sweet potatoes, or sit down for a meal of sushi or noodle soup.

Overall, a visit to the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is a fascinating and enriching experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, and rich cultural history, this temple is a must-see for any traveler passing through Narita Airport. So why not take advantage of your layover time and explore this incredible destination?

Stroll along the streets of Old Narita

If you have a few hours to kill around Narita Airport, why not take a stroll to the nearby Old Narita? This quaint and picturesque town is located just a stone's throw away from the airport, making it a convenient destination for travelers who want to explore its cultural heritage and beauty.

One of the activities that shouldn't be missed when visiting Old Narita is taking a walk along its historic streets. The town is renowned for its traditional architecture, with most of the buildings dating back to the Edo period, which spanned from 1603 to 1868. This means that you'll be treated to a glimpse of what life was like in Japan centuries ago. The streets are lined with wooden houses, shops, and restaurants, and you'll see plenty of traditional Japanese lanterns, red torii gates, and colorful banners.

As you stroll along the streets, take the time to explore the alleyways and side streets. You'll discover many hidden gems, such as quaint little temples, shrines, and gardens. One of the highlights of Old Narita is the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, which is one of Japan's most significant Buddhist temples. The temple is over a thousand years old and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Inside the temple complex, you'll find several halls, pagodas, and shrines. You can also witness monks performing their daily rituals and prayers.

Aside from taking in the historic atmosphere, you can also try some of the local delicacies around Old Narita. There are plenty of restaurants, street food stalls, and shops selling traditional snacks and treats. You can try the famous unagi (eel) dishes, soba noodles, mochi (glutinous rice cake), and other specialties. You can also buy souvenirs such as local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs to bring back home.

If you have extra time, you may also want to visit nearby attractions that are easily accessible from Old Narita. These include the Boso no Mura Open Air Museum, the Sakura City Museum of Art, and the Katori Shrine. You can take a local train, bus, or taxi to reach these destinations.

In conclusion, taking a stroll along the streets of Old Narita is a wonderful way to spend your layover around Narita Airport. It's a chance to experience Japan's cultural and historical heritage up close, with plenty of opportunities to explore, eat, and shop. So, why not add it to your travel itinerary? You won't regret it!

Try local Japanese food at Omotesando Street

If you are looking for something to do around Narita Airport before or after your flight, there are plenty of options available to you. One activity that you absolutely should consider is visiting Omotesando Street to try some local Japanese food.

Located in the city of Narita, which is approximately 10 kilometers away from the airport, Omotesando Street is a famous spot for tourists and locals alike. The street is lined with over 100 different shops and restaurants, most of which offer a wide variety of traditional Japanese dishes.

One of the best things about Omotesando Street is the atmosphere. With its narrow streets, old-fashioned buildings, and traditional architecture, the area has a charming, authentic feel to it that you won't find in other parts of Tokyo. This, combined with the numerous stalls selling Japanese sweets, souvenirs, and knick-knacks, make Omotesando Street a great place to spend a few hours.

When it comes to food, Omotesando Street does not disappoint. You can find all sorts of local Japanese delicacies here, such as sushi, tempura, soba noodles, and eel. There are also plenty of street food stalls selling yakitori skewers, takoyaki (battered balls filled with pieces of octopus), and other tasty treats.

If you're not sure what to try, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. Many of the restaurants have English menus and staff who speak at least some English, and they are always willing to help you choose something that suits your tastes.

One dish that you should definitely try while you're at Omotesando Street is unagi (eel). Narita is known for its high-quality eel, and you can find some of the best examples of this dish at Omotesando Street. The eel is typically grilled and served over rice, and it has a sweet, savory flavor that is both unique and delicious.

Overall, if you're looking for something to do around Narita Airport, a visit to Omotesando Street to try some local Japanese food is a must. With its authentic atmosphere, numerous food options, and great eel dishes, this is one experience that you won't want to miss.

Visit the Narita International Cultural Center

When traveling to or from Narita International Airport, you may find yourself with some time to spare. Instead of sitting around and waiting for your flight, take the opportunity to explore the area and check out the Narita International Cultural Center.

Located just a short distance from the airport, the Narita International Cultural Center is a modern and spacious facility that houses a variety of exhibitions, events, and activities that highlight the culture and history of the area. Whether you are interested in traditional Japanese arts and crafts, contemporary art and design, or historical artifacts, there is something here for everyone.

One of the main highlights of the Cultural Center is its museum, which showcases a range of exhibits that explore the history and culture of the Narita region. The museum's collection includes artifacts from ancient times, such as pottery and tools, as well as contemporary art and design from local artists.

In addition to the museum, the Cultural Center also offers a variety of workshops and classes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of the area. Guests can learn how to create traditional Japanese crafts, practice martial arts techniques, or take part in cultural festivals and events.

If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Narita area, be sure to check out the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, which is just a short walk from the Cultural Center. This famous temple is one of the most important religious sites in Japan, and it is home to a number of important cultural artifacts and monuments.

In summary, if you find yourself with some time to spare around Narita International Airport, be sure to visit the Narita International Cultural Center. With its museum, workshops, and events, it offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich culture and history of the Narita area.

Take a tour of Narita City

Traveling to Japan and landing at Narita International Airport can be an exciting experience. The airport is located approximately 60 km from Tokyo, and the surrounding area boasts numerous fun activities to do while you await your flight or have a long layover. One of the best things to do around Narita Airport is to take a tour of Narita City.

Narita City is a picturesque Japanese town that has preserved its traditional charm, making it a popular tourist destination. There are many things to see and do in Narita City, from visiting temples and shrines to shopping and dining in the local markets and restaurants.

To explore Narita City, you can take a guided tour or plan a self-guided tour to help you get around. You can start by visiting the famous Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, which is located in the heart of town. This 1000-year old temple is unique, with its historic gardens, halls, and gates. The temple is a perfect place to learn more about Japanese Buddhism and culture.

After visiting the temple, head to the nearby Narita City Omote-sando Street, a charming pedestrian street that is lined with traditional shops and cafes. Here, you can buy souvenirs or sample some of the local cuisine. Narita City’s shops are famous for their Japanese sweets like ''Yokan'' and ''Kawara-senbei'', so be sure to try some during your visit.

Another must-visit place in Narita City is Sakuranoyama Park, located just a few minutes away from the Shinshoji Temple. The park is home to beautiful cherry blossom trees and offers scenic views of Narita City and the surrounding mountains.

Finally, before you head back to the airport, make a stop at the Narita International Airport Museum, which is located in Terminal 1. The museum tells the history of Narita Airport, and it is a perfect way to learn more about the aviation industry in Japan.

In conclusion, taking a tour of Narita City is a great way to spend your time around Narita International Airport. The city is full of ancient temples, charming shops, and delicious restaurants. Whether you take a guided tour or explore on your own, you are sure to have an exciting and memorable experience.

Visit the Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum

If you have a layover at Narita airport and are looking for something interesting to do in the area, then visiting the Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum is a great choice. Located just 30 minutes away from Narita airport by train, this unique museum offers visitors a chance to experience traditional life and culture in Japan.

At the Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum, visitors can explore over 30 historic buildings that have been carefully relocated from their original sites across the Chiba prefecture. The buildings date back to the Edo period (1603-1868) and include peasant farmhouses, tea houses, a blacksmith's workshop, and even the ruins of a castle. Each building is meticulously preserved and restored, providing an authentic glimpse into Japan's rich history.

There are many things to see and do at the museum. You can try your hand at traditional crafts like paper-making or pottery, or watch live demonstrations of blacksmithing and wood-carving. There are also seasonal events and festivals such as the Edo Flower Festival in spring, and the Bon Dance Festival in summer, where visitors can join in the traditional dances and revelry.

If you're feeling hungry, there are several restaurants and snack shops throughout the museum serving delicious local cuisine. You can also shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the museum's gift shop, which sells unique items made by local artisans.

Overall, the Boso-no-Mura Open-Air Museum is a highly recommended destination for those looking to experience traditional Japanese culture and history. It's a perfect way to spend a few hours during a layover at Narita airport.

Visit the AEON Mall Narita for shopping

Narita Airport is one of the busiest airports in Japan, and many people find themselves with long layovers or stopovers in the area. Fortunately, there are plenty of things to do around the airport to keep yourself entertained, and one of the most popular activities is to visit the AEON Mall Narita for some shopping.

Located just a short distance from the airport, the AEON Mall Narita is a massive shopping complex that is sure to satisfy any Shopaholic's cravings. The mall is home to an impressive range of shops, ranging from fashion boutiques and beauty products to electronics and sporting goods retailers.

One of the key draws for visitors to the AEON Mall Narita is the huge selection of Japanese souvenirs and traditional crafts that can be found here. From delicate pottery and lacquerware to colorful kimonos and yukatas, you'll find plenty of unique items to take home as gifts or to add to your personal collection.

There are also plenty of dining options at the mall, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafe, and food stalls serving up everything from sushi and ramen to Western-style fast food. And if you need a break from shopping, you can also catch a movie at the mall's cinema complex, which offers the latest international releases.

Visitors often time their visit to the AEON Mall Narita during layover or stopover, as it can be a great way to occupy the time while waiting for the next flight. But even if you're not in a hurry, it's still worth making the journey to the mall to explore all the shopping and dining options on offer.

In summary, the AEON Mall Narita is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in shopping and Japanese culture. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, fashion, or entertainment, there's something for everyone here. So next time you find yourself at Narita Airport, don't hesitate to take a quick trip to the nearby shopping mall – you're sure to be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Visit the Museum of Aeronautical Sciences

If you have some time to kill around the Narita International Airport, one of the most exciting things to do is to visit the Museum of Aeronautical Sciences. This museum is located just a few minutes away from the airport, so it can make for an ideal stopover attraction if you have a few hours to spare before your next flight.

The Museum of Aeronautical Sciences is a well-curated museum that proudly showcases the achievements that humans have made in the field of aviation. The museum’s collection is spread over two floors, and you can expect to see historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and an extensive range of information about the fascinating history of aviation.

The museum’s central exhibit is the "Collection of Flight Simulator Models," which features a range of simulators that allow visitors to experience various aircraft. Additionally, the collection showcases how technology has evolved, from the Wright Brothers' first flight to modern-day aviation.

For those who love to learn about aircraft, the museum also houses an impressive collection of airplanes and helicopters. Visitors can view these aviation machines up close and can get an idea of what it’s like to sit in the cockpit. The collection includes military planes and helicopters from around the world, including Japanese fighter jets and American helicopters used in the Vietnam War.

For those who love technology and interactive exhibits, there's a lot to explore. From a simulator that allows visitors to engage in flight simulation, to a variety of displays showing how the mechanics of flight work, visitors can learn about the science behind aviation.

Overall, the Museum of Aeronautical Sciences is an impressive attraction that should definitely be on the list of things to do around Narita Airport. With its engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and impressive collection of planes, this museum is sure to leave you feeling inspired and educated about aviation. So, if you have a few hours to spare before your next flight, make sure to add this museum to your itinerary and enjoy a unique aviation experience.

Learn about Japanese history at the Narita Castle

If you're looking for things to do around Narita Airport, you won't be disappointed. One of the top attractions in the area is the Narita Castle, a stunning piece of Japanese history that's definitely worth a visit.

Located just a short distance from the airport, Narita Castle was built in the 15th century and was once the residence of the Narita clan. Now, the castle serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Japanese architecture, culture, and religion.

The castle itself is a beautiful, traditional Japanese structure with a moat and a bridge. Inside, visitors can explore the various exhibits that provide an in-depth look at the life and times of the Narita clan. There are also guided tours available, so if you're new to Japanese history, this can be a great way to learn more.

One of the highlights of the Narita Castle museum is the impressive collection of samurai armor and weapons. These artifacts provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of the samurai, who were among the most revered and feared warriors in Japanese history. There are also exhibits showcasing traditional Japanese crafts such as pottery, lacquerware, and textiles.

Another great feature of the Narita Castle museum is the beautiful gardens that surround the castle. These gardens are designed in the traditional Japanese style, with carefully-manicured shrubs, ponds, and bridges. It's easy to spend a few hours wandering around the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

Overall, a trip to Narita Castle is a must-do for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. Whether you have a few hours or a full day to spare, you'll find plenty of things to do and see at this incredible museum. So, the next time you're in the Narita Airport area, be sure to make time for a visit to the Narita Castle.

Take a day trip to Tokyo or Mount Fuji

If you're stuck with a long layover or have some time to spare around Narita Airport, take this opportunity to explore some of the amazing attractions close by. One of the best things you can do is to take a day trip to Tokyo or Mount Fuji.

Tokyo is an incredible city full of exciting things to see and do. It's only a short train ride from Narita and is well worth a visit if you have at least six hours to spare. There are direct trains and buses to Tokyo from the airport, which will get you there in about an hour. Once you arrive, you can explore the iconic Shibuya Crossing, stroll through the gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace, or visit the majestic Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city skyline.

Another great option is to take a day trip to Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain. You can take a bus or train from Narita to the nearby city of Kawaguchiko, then hop on a scenic bus tour to the mountain. The views of the peak from Lake Kawaguchiko are breathtaking, and if you want to get a little closer to the mountain, consider taking a hike to the top or explore the surrounding forests.

If you're a fan of Japanese culture, you can also visit some of the nearby historical sites. Narita is home to the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, a beautiful complex of Buddhist shrines and temples. The temple has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, and visitors can enjoy breathtaking architecture and beautiful gardens.

Lastly, if you're in the mood for a little shopping, you can visit the nearby AEON Mall Narita, which has a wide variety of shopping and dining options to keep you entertained.

In conclusion, a long stopover at Narita Airport doesn't have to be dull and uneventful. Grab the opportunity to explore Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, or go on a shopping spree. Whatever you decide on, you'll make the most of your time in the beautiful city of Narita.

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