Discover Historic Narita and Sawara : Gateway to Japan’s Past

Narita , Japan

Discover Historic Narita and Sawara : Gateway to Japan’s Past

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About this experience

Please note that this tour does not use a private vehicle and uses public transport. This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors

Located in Chiba prefecture, Narita and Sawara are fantastic places to visit for those staying in Narita either after or before their flights from nearby Narita Airport, those with a short layover in Tokyo or simply for those seeking adventure to see a different side of Japan!

With your tour guide you will have the opportunity to learn all about Narita and Sawara’s interesting past and significance by walking through their historical districts lined with beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the Edo period up to the Showa period, visit a local temple in Narita full of history, take a wonderful boat cruise on the beautiful Sawara Ono River, and visit Sawara’s Matsuri Festival museum to learn about its historical festival. This is the perfect opportunity to get out of Tokyo and experience a different side to Japan!

Available options

Discover Historic Narita and Sawara : Gateway to Japan’s Past

What's included

Local English speaking guide

Admission fees for Sawarai Matsui Float Museum

Ono River Boat Cruise

Train ticket for round trip from Narita to Sawara

Detailed itinerary

After the cruise we will head to our next destination, Sawara’s Matsuri Float Museum which celebrates and showcases the cultural and sacred Japanese tradition of its festivals which are now recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Sawara’s festival is held every October on the streets of Sawara! Huge and elaborate floats are paraded around the streets in large processions as people sing, dance and play musical instruments. At the museum you will learn about the history of this festival which dates back to the Edo period, get up close to two of the floats used and see many artefacts relating to the festival.

This vast complex is home to one of Narita’s oldest and most significant Buddhist temples. Established in the year 940 CE, it became a popular pilgrimage site and is now one of the most visited temples in Japan. The complex is made up of stunning pagodas, worship halls, a serene park and Calligraphy museum.

This small but highly significant area is famous for its beautifully and carefully preserved buildings dating as far back as the Edo period (1603 - 1868). It is extremely picturesque and steeped in history, and is a must when visiting Sawara! Out first destination in this area will be a traditional boat cruise on the historic and highly significant Ono River! Sawara developed as a key place for trade and commerce during the Edo period, and the tributary river that flows through the centre of the town became an important water way for people to travel and take goods up and down the town! During the boat cruise, you will pass under many of Sawara’s pretty bridges and see the historic architecture from a different perspective on the water. Here, your guide will showcase points of interest in the beautiful town so you can learn more about its past, architecture and residents!

What's not included

Trains and transport before and after the tour

Food and drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will meet your tour guide outside of the Tokyo Base restaurant which is located inside of Narita station directly in front of the ticket gates. Please look out for the tour guide with a ’Snow Monkey Resorts’ tag. Once everybody has met we will begin the tour.

About Narita

Narita is a city in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, best known as the location of Narita International Airport, the primary gateway for international travelers to Japan. The city offers a unique blend of modern convenience and traditional charm, with numerous temples, shrines, and natural attractions.

Top Attractions

Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple

This ancient Buddhist temple is the spiritual heart of Narita and a significant cultural landmark. It features beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and numerous smaller temples and shrines.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (some areas may have small fees)

Narita Toy Museum

A fun and interactive museum featuring a vast collection of toys from around the world, including vintage and modern toys.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥1,000 (approx. $9)

Narita Tomyo-ji Temple

A lesser-known but historically significant temple with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful grounds.

Historical/Religious 1 hour Free

Narita Lakeside Park

A scenic park located along the Inba Nunobiki River, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Narita Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers, a popular street food in Narita, often served with a savory-sweet sauce.

Snack Contains meat, gluten (soy sauce)

Unagi Don

Grilled eel served over rice, a local specialty in Narita.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Narita Soba

Buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often with a dipping sauce or in a broth.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free (if not mixed with wheat), vegetarian (if no fish broth)

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature parks Biking around the city Visiting Narita Lakeside Park Enjoying a traditional onsen (hot spring) Exploring Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple Attending local festivals Boat rides on the Sawara Canal Visiting during the Narita Illumination festival in December

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Narita is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis and always use metered taxis.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Narita Station

By bus

Narita Station, Airport Terminals

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are the most efficient way to get around Narita and connect to nearby cities. The Keisei Electric Railway operates frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Narita Narita Station Area Kurimoto

Day trips

Sawara

30 km (18.6 miles) from Narita • Half day to full day

A charming town known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets, traditional houses, and scenic canals. Sawara offers a glimpse into old Japan.

Inba Nunobiki Kofun

15 km (9.3 miles) from Narita • Half day

A large ancient burial mound, or kofun, dating back to the Kofun period (300-710 AD). It is one of the largest and most well-preserved kofun in Japan.

Katori Jingu

20 km (12.4 miles) from Narita • Half day

A significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (spirit) of agriculture and sword-making. It is one of Japan's most important shrines.

Festivals

Narita Festival • October Narita Illumination • December Narita Sanja Matsuri • May

Pro tips

Arrive early at Narita-san Shinso-ji Temple to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
Try local specialties, such as Narita yakitori and unagi don, for an authentic dining experience.
Explore the Omotesando shopping street for traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks.
Visit Narita Lakeside Park for a relaxing stroll and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Sawara or Inba Nunobiki Kofun, for a mix of history and culture.