Detailed History and Overview of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
2. History of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
3. Highlights of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple
   
   

Introduction

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is the head temple of the Chisan branch of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, holding a significant place in Japanese Buddhism. Its founding dates back to the 3rd year of the Tengyō era (940 AD) during the Heian period, and since then, it has attracted numerous worshippers and devotees from across the country. Located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, this temple is affectionately known as "Narita’s Fudō-sama" (Fudō Myō-ō), and it boasts a vast, scenic temple complex rich in historical architecture and natural beauty. The temple is also home to many important cultural properties.

In this article, we will delve into the history, cultural significance, and must-see spots of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

1. Overview of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple 

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, is one of Japan's most prominent temples and serves as the head temple of the Chisan branch of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Founded in 940 AD during the Heian period, this temple has been widely revered across the country for its principal deity, Fudō Myō-ō (Acala), known as “Narita’s Fudō-sama.” The temple’s origins date back to the suppression of Taira no Masakado’s rebellion, when the great monk Kancho Daisojo enshrined Fudō Myō-ō and conducted Goma fire rituals to bring peace.

The temple’s founding in 940 AD is attributed to Kancho Daisojo, and since its inception, the temple has attracted devoted worshippers who revere Fudō Myō-ō as the temple’s principal deity. Known as "Narita’s Fudō-sama," this deity has long been a focus of faith. Today, Shinshoji Temple is famous for its Goma fire rituals, which attract numerous visitors seeking blessings for protection from evil, traffic safety, family well-being, and business prosperity.

The temple grounds span a vast area of approximately 330,000 square meters, containing numerous historic buildings and cultural properties. Among the highlights is the Main Hall (Daihondo), built in 1980, which serves as the venue for the daily Goma rituals and draws many worshippers. Other notable structures include the Three-Story Pagoda, built in 1712, the Komyodo Hall, completed in 1701, and the Shakado Hall, erected in 1858, each representing the architectural beauty of their respective periods.

Throughout the year, Shinshoji Temple hosts a variety of events and festivals, with the most famous being the Naritasan Setsubun Festival, held annually on February 3rd. This event features celebrities and sumo wrestlers participating in the traditional bean-throwing ceremony, attracting large crowds of visitors. Additionally, during the New Year period, the temple welcomes over 3 million people from across the country, making it one of Japan's most popular spots for Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year).

The temple grounds are rich in natural beauty, offering stunning views throughout the four seasons. Especially noteworthy is Naritasan Park, which spans approximately 165,000 square meters and features ponds, waterfalls, and a tea house, making it a popular destination for viewing autumn foliage.

2. History of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple 

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, is the head temple of the Chisan branch of Shingon Buddhism, with a history spanning over 1,100 years. Below is a chronological account of the major historical events associated with Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

　1. 940 AD – Founding 

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple was founded in 940 AD during the Heian period by the great monk Kancho Daisojo. It is said that the temple was established to enshrine Fudō Myō-ō (Acala) and to perform Goma fire rituals in order to subdue the rebellion of Taira no Masakado.

Kancho Daisojo believed that with the divine protection of Fudō Myō-ō, peace would be restored, and the nation would prosper. Following its establishment, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple became widely revered as the home of “Narita’s Fudō-sama.”

　2. 1591 AD – Reconstruction During the Azuchi-Momoyama Period 

During the turbulent Sengoku period, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple suffered significant damage due to repeated conflicts and fires. However, in 1591 (Tensho 19), under the patronage of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the temple’s main hall was reconstructed, marking a revival for the temple. The newly built main hall, incorporating the grandeur of the Momoyama period’s architectural style, became a symbol of the temple, attracting many worshippers.

　3. 1603 AD – Protection and Development During the Edo Period 

With the beginning of the Edo period, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple came under the protection of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shogunate provided economic support and land grants to stabilize the temple’s finances.

During this period, the temple became a center for culture and education in the region, with commercial and lodging facilities developing around the temple. Many cultural assets and artworks were also donated to the temple, enhancing its cultural significance throughout the Edo period.

　4. 1868 AD – The Meiji Restoration and the Separation of Shinto and Buddhism 

Following the Meiji Restoration, the anti-Buddhist movement (haibutsu kishaku) led to the widespread destruction and conversion of Buddhist temples. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple was also affected by the government’s policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism, which forced the division of many Buddhist temples from Shinto shrines.

However, thanks to the support of local residents and devotees, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple survived, and efforts were made to rebuild and restore the temple. During this time, the temple sought to preserve its traditions while adapting to the new religious landscape.

　5. Post-World War II – Recovery and Modernization 

During World War II, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple suffered damage, but reconstruction efforts were swiftly undertaken after the war. From the 1950s onwards, the temple grounds and facilities were improved, and the temple's appeal as a tourist destination increased.

The opening of Narita International Airport led to a surge in both domestic and international visitors, cementing Naritasan Shinshoji Temple’s status as an international tourist destination. The temple continues to welcome many worshippers through traditional events and seasonal festivals.

　6. Modern Era – Development as a Cultural Heritage Site 

Today, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple continues to develop as both a historical and cultural heritage site. The temple grounds are home to many buildings and works of art that have been designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. A wide range of events and festivals are held throughout the year, with major attractions like Hatsumode (New Year’s shrine visit), the Setsubun Festival, and the Plum Blossom Festival drawing visitors from all over the country.

In recent years, infrastructure improvements and the adoption of digital technologies have helped to provide a comfortable and accessible environment for visitors from both Japan and abroad.

3. Highlights of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple 

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, located in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, is one of Japan's most renowned ancient temples, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Below are the main spots you should visit when exploring Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

　■ Main Hall (Daihondo) 

The Main Hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple was rebuilt in 1968 and serves as the center for Goma fire rituals. The principal deity, Fudō Myō-ō (Acala), is enshrined here, flanked by Kongara Dōji on the right and Seitaka Dōji on the left.

Inside the hall, you will also find the "Four Great Myō-ō" and the "Heisei Great Mandala." During the Fudō Myō-ō Goma fire rituals, worshippers offer wooden prayer sticks to the flames, symbolically burning away worldly desires and ensuring that their wishes are granted.

　■ Great Peace Pagoda 

Built in 1984, the Great Peace Pagoda is a symbol of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. Standing 58 meters tall, this vermillion pagoda represents the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, and houses statues of Fudō Myō-ō and the Four Great Myō-ō within. The interior also features the "Shōwa Great Mandala" and a Tibetan sand mandala, offering visitors a chance to experience Buddhist art and teachings.

From the top floor, known as Kongōden, where the Five Wisdom Buddhas are enshrined, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Naritasan's beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can also participate in activities such as sutra copying and Shingon meditation as part of their spiritual training.​

　■ Komyodo Hall 

Built in 1701, Komyodo Hall is the oldest structure at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The hall showcases mid-Edo period architecture with intricate wood carvings and sculptures. The principal deity enshrined here is Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), revered for granting health and medical protection. The hall also enshrines Aizen Myō-ō (Ragaraja), making it a popular power spot for those seeking blessings for love and relationships.​

　■ Naritasan Park 

Naritasan Park is a vast garden located on the hillside behind the Main Hall, covering approximately 165,000 square meters. The park was created in 1928 and features three ponds—Ryuchi Pond, Ryujyu Pond, and Monju Pond—symbolizing the Buddhist practice of releasing life, reflecting the temple’s respect for all living beings.

The park also includes a waterfall and wisteria trellises, with the Yūhi Waterfall standing around 20 meters tall. The park offers beautiful scenery throughout the year, with the Plum Blossom Festival in spring and the Autumn Foliage Festival in the fall, which are accompanied by performances of traditional instruments such as the koto and erhu.

　■ Three-Story Pagoda 

Built in 1712, the Three-Story Pagoda is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Inside, the Five Wisdom Buddhas are enshrined, and the pagoda is adorned with carvings of the Sixteen Arhats (enlightened disciples of Buddha). The pagoda, crafted by master carpenters of the Edo period, features carvings of mystical creatures like dragons and qilin, with a finial that houses Buddhist relics.

The pagoda is considered a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture, with its vivid decorations continuing to captivate visitors.

　■ Shakado Hall 

Shakado Hall, built in 1858, once served as the Main Hall of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property and enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha as the principal deity. The hall, which reflects the architectural style of the Edo period, is built using sturdy zelkova wood and features elaborate carvings.

Today, Shakado Hall serves as a place for purification rituals, attracting many worshippers. Inside the hall are statues of the Five Hundred Arhats and carvings depicting the Twenty-Four Filial Exemplars, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the time.​

　■ Monzenmachi (Temple Town) 

The approach to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is lined with the historic Monzenmachi, which has preserved its Edo-period charm. The street is home to numerous restaurants and shops, with the town being particularly famous for its eel cuisine. Known as a specialty of Narita’s temple town, eel dishes have been served to visitors since the Edo period, with the eel grilled over charcoal for a rich, smoky flavor.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of eel dishes, such as "unajū" (grilled eel on rice) and "hitsumabushi" (chopped eel with rice). Exploring the old streets lined with historic buildings while sampling local specialties and browsing handmade crafts is one of the highlights of a visit to the temple.

 Conclusion 

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, with its history spanning over a thousand years, remains a place of deep faith and reverence. The daily Goma fire rituals, presided over by Fudō Myō-ō, and the temple's serene grounds offer a sense of peace and tranquility to all who visit.

With its many historical buildings, vast Naritasan Park, and a year-round calendar of events, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple offers a rich experience that allows visitors to connect with Japan’s traditions and spirituality.