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Japan Sacred Spots

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

千葉県成田市成田1View on map

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One of Japan's most prominent sacred sites, welcoming over 10 million worshippers annually. Though a Shingon Buddhist temple, it is also venerated in a shrine-like manner. It is especially famous for blessings of traffic safety and prosperous business.

Shrine Info

Enshrined Deity
不動明王(交通安全・商売繁盛の神として参拝される)
Founded
940年(天慶3年)
Annual Festival
節分会(2月)・御護摩祈祷(毎日)

History & Origins

Founded in 940 CE when the high priest Kancho brought a statue of Fudo Myo-o (Acala) and performed goma fire rituals to suppress the rebellion of Taira no Masakado. It became enormously popular during the Edo period under the name 'Naritamairi.'

Highlights

The Great Main Hall, Three-Storied Pagoda, Niomon Gate, and Naritasan Park (renowned for cherry blossoms) are highlights. The eel cuisine along the approach road and the proximity to Narita Airport also make this a popular stop.

Visitor Guide

Conveniently located near Narita Airport. The approach street is lined with shops selling eel dishes and pickles. The Setsubun Bean-Throwing Ceremony in February attracts many celebrities.

Best Season

Visits are welcome year-round. Cherry blossoms in March–April and autumn foliage in November are particularly beautiful.

Attributes

Five Elements
Lineage
真言宗
Deity / Principal Image
火の神
Spiritual
浄化

Annual Events

  • 2月

    節分会

    毎年2月3日に行われる節分の大法会。著名人や力士が参加して豆をまく行事として全国的に知られ、数万人が訪れる成田山最大の年中行事のひとつです。

  • 1月

    初詣

    元旦から三が日にかけて全国から多くの参拝者が集まり、年間参拝者数は日本屈指の規模となります。一年の開運・厄除けを願う参拝が続きます。

  • 通年

    御護摩祈祷

    毎日複数回執行される護摩祈祷。不動明王の御前で燃え盛る護摩の炎に祈願木をくべ、開運・厄除けなどを祈願します。