Narita is a charming Japanese city with classic wooden architecture housing old shops, family-run restaurants and karaoke bars. Wander through the maze of streets to discover historic temples, Japanese cultural museums and an inner-city park with foliage that changes with the seasons.

Things to do

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history at the 10th-century Narita-san Shinshō-ji Buddhist temple. This revered site includes a three-storey pagoda, impressive stone statues and fascinating events each month. You can also learn about the local history at Boso no Mura, an open-air museum that recreates a typical village with craft workshops, farms and homes.

Interested in aviation? Visit the Museum of Aeronautical Science to see Japanese planes and test your skills on flight simulators. If you feel like a change of pace, spend some time in Naritasan Park, which boasts lush native plants and trees that burst with colour in spring and autumn. Take a stroll around the park to discover intricate stone carvings and tranquil ponds and streams.

Shoppers will love the Aeon Narita mall, home to more than 150 specialty stores. You can browse international brands, such as The Body Shop and Tommy Hilfiger, as well as local shops, including Akakura and Aeon Pet. Feeling peckish? Grab some authentic Japanese barbecue at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ or enjoy the country’s take on Western cuisine and at California Restaurant.

If you feel like getting out and about, drive north-east to Sawara, a small town with canals winding through residences and warehouses restored from the Edo Period. It also hosts a parade of floats twice each year around July and October.

Getting around

Narita International Airport is located about 20 minutes from Narita via either the Keisei or JR Line railways. There’s also a shuttle bus from the airport to Aeon Narita and taxis to take you further afield. If you prefer to drive, rent a car and enjoy a range of highways connecting Narita to nearby cities, including Tokyo.