Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

I visited the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple on a recent Narita layover. It apparently receives many visitors throughout the year. There was generous crowd when I went, but it wasn't obtrusive. I imagine there are lots more folks during the summer months.

The Naritasan Temple is easy to get to. Click on the map below to enlarge it.

I went on a sunny day in late late February, so the surrounding scenery was still a bit gray and wintery. I imagine the view are much better if you can manage to visit in the summertime.

The entire park is very well maintained. It's fun to walk through, and you'll find shrines of varying size and scope throughout the park.

I saw the first 20 minutes of the Buddhist prayer service. They want you to take off you shoes. I didn't understand any of it, so after marvelling at the scenery in the great hall, I quietly left. They don't allow pictures of the main hall.

The only tough part is forcing yourself to get up and do it, since you're body will be wanting to snooze.

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Me in front of the recently constructed Somon Gate (or Grand Gate). You'll marvel at the craftmanship and on such a large scale. There is a public restroom on the opposite end of this square.

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Nioman Gate

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The Three Storied Pagoda near the Main Hall

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I'm not an expert on Buddhism, but these shrines and plaques that look like grave markers are in fact prayer stones.

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The Great Pagoda of Peace towards the rear of the park.

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I took the Green Street on the way back and enjoyed seeing how busy it was. Up until now, I'd only seen the street at night on the way to the Jet Lag Club.