We had independently read good reviews of the old part of Narita, the city not the airport, and decided to visit on Saturday. And we totally lucked out since the Gion Festival was taking place. This is in part a religious observance (ironically set up to pray for a deliverance from a plague of sickness in 869 … so I hope it worked for Covid!) but also a raucous street festival with much food and drinks available along the streets.

The Gion Festival is 300 years old and in Narita it features 10 floats from different districts. It was so lovely to see the colour, hear the chants and taste some great food. And it made me realise what a sterile Japan we have been living in with all festivals and events cancelled because of Covid.

I am a sucker for lucky bags … 3 photos show my purchase. I think I know one small boy who will enjoy them!

The Naritasan Temple

In addition to having a great time at the festival, we were able to walk around this fabulous Buddhist temple complex. Although it was founded in 940 the Great Pagoda of Peace was only added in 1984 and other temples more recently. Whilst we could hear the festival in the streets below, it was impossible to see because of all the trees.