We had a nine-hour layover at Narita International Airport outside of Tokyo. Instead of taking the train into the city, we opted for a short jaunt into the town of Narita. Our decision proved to be wise...
A 10 minute ride on the Keisei Main Line drops you in the center of Narita City. Walk down the main drag, Omotesandou, for a quaint stroll through a land of souvenirs and tasty treats.
Our first stop was at a bakery for some freshly-baked rice crackers.
Onwards to more tea and pastries...
Tea dispensers.
A curiosity shop full of rare beasts, potions, and homeopathic remedies.
Taxidermy gone wild.
Rikki Tikki Tavi vs. the Hooded Cobra.
Multi-colored handkerchiefs in a dizzying array of patterns.
"Beckoning cats" accompanied us on our journey through the "spiritual vortex" which is Narita.
Another stop along the road brought us to an ornately decorated tea-house where we indulged in coffee and toast.
Snacking on fried octopus balls!
Sake Brewery.
The ubiquitous Narita hedgehog creature. They appear benevolent, but that innocent facade belies a ghastly temper. Don't cross this critter.
Keisei Narita Station.
The face of someone who is not quite ready to leave Japan.
Coming soon... roaming around the Narita Shinshoji Temple. A grand pilgrimage indeed.
