Narita-san, also known by its temple name Shinshoji, is one of the major esoteric sect Buddhist temples in Japan at its location in Chiba prefecture overlooking the city of Narita. Founded in 940 by the great priest Kancho when a sacred statue of Fudo Myô was moved from Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka) to Narita-san. The statue had been commissioned by Emperor Saga and carved by Kukai, the famous monk who brought esoteric Buddhism to Japan. Shortly following the completion of the statue, Taira no Masakado (see Kanda Jinja and Tsukudo Jinja) led a rebellion against the Imperial Court, so the statue was moved and prayed to in hopes of ending the rebellion. The temple complex of Shinshoji was built to house the statue and still does to this day. In the Edo Period (1614-1868) the sacred statue of Fudo was brought to the city to spread esoteric teachings and at that time famed kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjuro (the Danjuro was one of the most highly regarded families of Kabuki) was playing the role of Fudo Myô on stage and as such, even today, plays with Fudo Myô have references back to Narita-san and the statue.

For the casual: 10. For the educated: 10.

Now it's important to note that if you're thinking of going to Narita-san to go temple hopping, don't because there isn't much around. That being said, if you're the type that likes collecting goshuin, there are 5 to be collected at this one complex. It's fairly easy to get out to the city of Narita considering that the international airport is on the other side of the hill, but the city is a really cool place to visit. A mixture of city life and old fashioned Japan in one place, so if you're wanting to go but would enjoy splitting the day between the temple and the city, this is a good place to go.

The temple has so much going on for it I don't even know where to start. First, it's super super cool. There are a lot of halls to visit and a great garden to find yourself sitting on a bench and enjoying the sun, the air, and the rustle of the trees.