Naritasan Shinshji Temple~ Japan

A 1000 year old Buddhist temple, one of the largest in Japan has five main buildings set throughout an incredible grounds area just off the old town of Narita. All of the temples are reminiscent of the Edo or Tokugawa era.

The feeling here is calm and utterly beautiful. Purple flags were hung over doorways, koi fish filled the ponds, a natural water fall fell through the forest walk behind the temples and incense was blowing in the breeze. We were in a trance of peace meandering around in awe.

Goma fire prayers have been performed for here daily for over 1000 years where prayers are offered to Fudomyoo, a deity known for his immovable wisdom.

Hundreds of thousands of people come to celebrate seasonal festivals here in the form of music, dance, flowers, fire and peace.

The township's streets surrounding were quaint and beautifully lined with animal statues. Pottery, paintings, scarves and wood carvings were being sold by local artists within shops along the old town. The ramen houses we passed on the way here were quit legit and left us feeling so happy on our walks through the temple's gardens.

We loved exploring the history here and to experience how the temple is still used today. Utter peace was found through walks at the Shinshji Temple:).