Famed for its production of rice and watermelons, Tomisato is an agricultural hub home to urban parks and golf courses. It’s also within easy access of the Narita-san temple and its calligraphy museum.
Things to do in Tomisato
Discover the fire rituals associated with the 10th-century Narita-san Shinsho-ji temple, which features a three-storey pagoda amongst its Heritage-listed buildings. It is dedicated to the fire god, Acala, and boasts wooden amulets that are ceremonially burned each day during traditional Goma rituals.
Behind the temple is the Naritasan Museum of Calligraphy where around 250 fine works of calligraphy are displayed. Learn about the evolution of modern Japanese calligraphy from the Yedo Period to the present, along with the difference between Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana characters.
Rail enthusiasts should visit Kuriyama Park, a green oasis underneath the Keisei Line track. An old steam locomotive is on display and there’s a miniature railway to ride, while colourful hydrangeas planted in garden beds surround its spacious lawns.
Fancy a round of golf? Head to one of Tomisato’s courses, such as Showa Golf in the south-east of the city and the Kuno Country Club to the north. Tackle Kuno’s challenging 16th hole, then enjoy a drink or meal overlooking the course in the elegant restaurant.
Getting around Tomisato
Tomisato is just over an hour’s drive from Tokyo and 25 minutes from Narita International Airport. Buses are the main means of travelling in Tomisato and accessing its surrounding sights.