📕 Goshuin from visitors
Naritasan Shinshoji
〒286-0023 千葉県成田市成田１
The head temple of the Chisan sect of Shingon Buddhism, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. The principal image is Fudo Myoo (the Immovable Wisdom King), which is said to have been personally carved, dedicated, and consecrated by Kobo Daishi Kukai. In 940 CE (Tenkyo 3), Daishoso Kanjo, acting on an imperial edict from Emperor Suzaku to quell the rebellion of Taira no Masakado, performed a Goma fire ritual at this site using a statue of Fudo Myoo crafted by Kukai. The rebellion was subsequently pacified, and because the statue ceased to move, the temple was established here. During the Edo period, the temple received the deep devotion of the first Ichikawa Danjuro, a famous kabuki actor, which gave rise to the stage name 'Narita-ya.' It became widely revered by commoners in Edo as 'Narita no Fudo-sama' (the Fudo Myoo of Narita). Today, it serves as a fundamental training ground for prayers for traffic safety and warding off misfortune, boasting one of the largest numbers of New Year's shrine visitors in the country.
History
As the head temple of the Chisan sect of Shingon Buddhism, it is renowned for Goma fire rituals dedicated to the principal image of Fudo Myoo. It attracts many visitors throughout the year, with one of the highest numbers of New Year's visitors in the nation.
Blessings
It is revered for its benefits in warding off misfortune and fulfilling wishes.
What visitors say
The vast temple grounds feature impressive architectural structures that evoke a sense of history, creating a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. The approach path is lined with long-established shops where visitors can enjoy street food and souvenir hunting. One can observe Goma fire rituals up close, and the natural environment of Naritasan Park is well-maintained, offering a setting where both worship and leisurely strolls can be enjoyed.
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Tuesday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Wednesday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Thursday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Friday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Saturday: 8:00 – 16:00
- Sunday: 8:00 – 16:00
Annual events & festivals
- January 1 onwardHatsumode (New Year's Grand Goma Fire Rite)
One of the most popular first shrine visits in the country. Approximately 3 million people visit during the three-day New Year period.
The head temple of the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism, enshrining Fudo Myoo as its principal deity. The first shrine visit attracts one of the largest crowds in Japan, with approximately 3 million visitors during the three-day New Year period, during which the New Year's Grand Goma Fire Rite is solemnly performed.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・One of the most popular first shrine visits in the country (approx. 3 million visitors)
- ・Goma Fire Rite prayer
- ・Bustling atmosphere on the main approach
- Around February 3Setsubun-e (Bean-Throwing Festival)
A nationally famous Setsubun festival where sumo wrestlers and celebrities throw beans.
The Setsubun festival at Naritasan, where only the phrase 'Fuku wa uchi' (Fortune is inside) is chanted. A nationally famous event where sumo wrestlers and actors from NHK historical dramas throw beans from a special stage.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Bean-throwing by sumo wrestlers and celebrities
- ・Chanting only 'Fortune is inside'
- ・Ritual expulsion of evil spirits on a special stage
- April (mid-month)Narita Taiko-sai (Narita Drum Festival)
A spring festival gathering Japanese drum players from all over the country.
Held in spring, this festival gathers Japanese drum players from across the country, who perform vigorous music on the main approach and within the temple grounds.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Japanese drum players from all over the country
- ・Vigorous performances
- ・Spring atmosphere on the main approach
- July (early to mid-month)Naritasan Gion-e (Naritasan Gion Festival)
A summer festival coinciding with the special opening of the Oku-no-in.
A summer festival held in conjunction with the special opening of the principal image, Dainichi Nyorai, at the Oku-no-in. Splendid floats and food stalls parade through the town of Narita.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Special opening of the Oku-no-in
- ・Parade of floats and food stalls
- ・Summer bustle in Narita
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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