To most, the city of Narita is a blur seen out the window of a train traveling between Japan¡¯s largest international airport and downtown Tokyo.
An astute observer might catch a glimpse of the golden crown of Narita-san Shinshoji Temple¡¯s graceful three-story pagoda, before their thoughts are subsumed by Japan¡¯s better-publicized destinations. But Shinshoji is worth stopping for ¡ª it is one of Chiba Prefecture¡¯s best-known religious sites.
Affectionately referred to as Narita-san, the temple hosts more than 10 million visitors a year, many of whom converge on the grounds during the new year festivities. It¡¯s so popular that finding the temple is as easy as following the streams of people leaving Narita Station.
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