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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Asuka.
Nestled amidst verdant hills and ancient temples, Asuka is a treasure trove for seekers of historical and cultural gems.
From exploring the mystical Kitora Tomb to cycling through quaint villages, there’s an endless array of enriching experiences waiting to be unravelled in this idyllic destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Asuka:
1. Ishibutai Tomb
Ishibutai Tomb is a historic burial site located in the Asuka region of Japan. It is believed to be the remains of a powerful clan leader from the 6th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can step into the ancient tomb and marvel at the massive stone structure weighing over 70 tons. The tomb is surrounded by a picturesque forested area that provides a serene escape from modern life.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the details of the tomb’s stonework, including the towering stone columns that support the massive roof.
The open-air design of the tomb is an architectural feat that has stood the test of time.
Insider travel tips: For those interested in Japanese history, Asuka is filled with historical sites that are worth visiting. Don’t miss the Asuka-dera Temple and the Oka-dera Temple.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the site requires some walking from the parking area to the tomb.
2. Asuka-dera Temple
Asuka-dera Temple is one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in Japan, located in Asuka village of Nara Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visit the Hoki-ji Temple site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the three-story pagoda, the oldest standing wooden building in Japan.
Explore the Great Buddha Hall and the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple.
Don’t miss: The Asuka-dera Museum, which houses a large collection of ancient Buddhist artifacts and cultural treasures.
Also, make sure to see the Tachibana-dera Temple, located just a short walk from Asuka-dera, which is famous for its stunning autumn foliage.
Insider travel tips: Take some time to walk around the village and see the many burial mounds and ancient ruins.
If you’re visiting during the spring, be sure to check out the Asuka Temple Cherry Blossom Festival, where you can enjoy a hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnic under the trees.
Also, try the local specialty, Asuka-zuke, a type of pickled vegetables that are delicious and unique to the area.
3. Takamatsuzuka Tomb
Takamatsuzuka Tomb is an ancient burial mound located in Asuka, Japan, that is said to date back to the late 7th or early 8th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the tomb’s interior and view the colorful murals on the walls and ceiling. The murals depict scenes from Chinese astrology and mythology, as well as daily life in ancient Japan.
Don’t miss: One of the standout features of the tomb’s murals is a depiction of the Four Heavenly Kings, which were commonly depicted in Buddhist art during this time period.
Insider travel tips: – To access the tomb, visitors must first climb a steep set of stairs and then descend a narrow tunnel, so those who are claustrophobic or have difficulty with stairs may want to skip this attraction.
4. Kashihara Jingu Shrine
Kashihara Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan, and is dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, the mythical founder of Japan.
What to see or do: Take in the grandeur of the shrine’s architecture, which includes a torii gate, a main hall, and several smaller buildings. Visitors can also explore the surrounding park and gardens, which contain a variety of flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The Annual Reitaisai Festival, held annually on October 12th and 13th, which includes a procession of priests and shrine maidens, a horseback archery demonstration, and a ceremonial prayer for peace and prosperity.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as the shrine complex is quite large and requires a fair amount of walking.
5. Asuka-Fujiwara Heritage Park
Asuka-Fujiwara Heritage Park is an open-air museum that offers a glimpse into the ancient Japanese capital of Asuka in the 6th to 8th centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore replicas of Asuka-era buildings, including a palace, a government office, and a shrine. There are also exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts, such as swords, pottery, and religious objects.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the Asuka-dera Temple replica, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple was built in the 7th century and is one of the oldest temples in Japan.
Insider travel tips: – To fully appreciate the historical significance of the park, consider hiring a guide who can provide context and answer any questions.
6. Asuka Historical Museum
The Asuka Historical Museum is a modern museum located in the ancient capital of Asuka in Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases Japan’s ancient civilization and the history of Asuka through its collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can see ancient tombs, weapons, pottery, and other archaeological findings from the Asuka period.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the display of the Takamatsuzuka Tomb Mural, a rare and well-preserved masterpiece from the 7th century.
Insider travel tips: Guided tours are offered in English and can help visitors learn more about the exhibits and history of Asuka.
7. Oka-dera Temple
Oka-dera Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in the town of Asuka in Japan’s Nara Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which include several buildings and statues of the Buddha. Take in magnificent views of the surrounding countryside from the temple’s hilltop location.
The temple is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, which offer a peaceful setting for contemplation and relaxation.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop by the temple’s main hall, which houses a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing and medicine.
You’ll also want to see the three-story pagoda, which is one of the oldest wooden structures in Japan.
Insider travel tips: – Oka-dera Temple is a popular site for cherry blossom viewing in the spring, when the temple grounds are covered in beautiful pink flowers.
8. Asuka-Furuso-no-Oka Palace Site
The Asuka-Furuso-no-Oka Palace Site is a historic Japanese imperial palace complex located in Asuka, Nara Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the extensive grounds of the palace complex, which cover approximately 90,000 square meters and include several structures such as the Nihon Geizai Yakushi Nyorai-do Hall and the Iwaidani Ishimi-ishi stone quarry.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Asuka-Furuso-no-Oka Palace Site is the Ishibutai Tomb, a massive stone tomb thought to have been built during the 7th century.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the history and significance of the Asuka-Furuso-no-Oka Palace Site, consider hiring a local guide who can provide a deeper understanding of the site’s cultural importance.
Additionally, keep in mind that some areas of the site may be closed for restoration work.
9. Asukakyo Forest Reserve
Asukakyo Forest Reserve is a scenic natural reserve located in the Nara Prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Asukakyo Forest Reserve can enjoy hiking through the beautiful forest trails, exploring the nearby historical sites, and taking in the stunning views of the mountainous landscape.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of a visit to Asukakyo Forest Reserve is the opportunity to see the ancient burial mounds and tombs from the Asuka Period.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for hiking as the trails can be steep and uneven.
10. Kitora Tomb
Ancient tomb in Asuka, Japan with well-preserved murals from the late 7th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the intricate murals and designs found on the walls and ceiling of the tomb chamber.
Don’t miss: The colorful mural of the “Asuka Bijin”, or “Asuka Beauties”, which depict elegantly dressed women of the time period.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day. Also, note that photography is not permitted inside the tomb.
11. Asuka-Fukaji ruins
Asuka-Fukaji ruins are an ancient archaeological site in Nara, Japan, that dates back to the Asuka period (538-710).
What to see or do: At Asuka-Fukaji ruins, you can explore the remains of a once vast palace complex and witness a unique glimpse into Japan’s ancient past.
Visitors can see various ruins, including the foundation stones of the former palace buildings, a large bathing pool, and a magnificent model that will help you imagine the grandeur of the palace back in time.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the famous Ishibutai Kofun. The Ishibutai is the largest, free-standing ancient stone structure in Japan.
It is believed to have been built as a tomb for a powerful ruling family member over 1,400 years ago.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable walking shoes because there will be a lot of walking involved.
12. Asuka-Nishi Palace Site
The Asuka-Nishi Palace Site is an ancient palace site and a national historical site in Asuka, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the palace, such as the foundations of the buildings and the courtyard. The site also has a museum that showcases the artifacts and tools used during ancient times.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the site is the reconstructed audience hall, where visitors can learn about the functions of the palace and its importance in Japanese history.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the history of the Asuka-Nishi Palace Site, it is recommended to hire a local guide or participate in a guided tour.
The site is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is beautiful.
13. Manyo Botanical Garden
Manyo Botanical Garden is a stunning park located in the historic town of Asuka, Japan. This park stretches over a vast area and features a diverse collection of plants and flowers.
What to see or do: This garden is a vibrant display of nature’s beauty, with over 300 different varieties of trees, flowers, and plants.
Visitors can stroll along the serene walking paths that wind through a forest of ume, cherry blossoms, and wisteria, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Manyo Botanical Garden is the Lotus Garden, where the beautiful lotus flowers bloom in summer. Visitors can also admire the King’s Fern, a rare plant that is indigenous to Japan.
Insider travel tips: To maximize your enjoyment at Manyo Botanical Garden, it’s recommended to visit in spring or summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the incredible scenery. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
14. Yamanobe-no-michi Trail
Yamanobe-no-michi Trail is a historic trail located in Asuka, Nara Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the oldest roads in Japan and stretches for about 22 kilometers across rural farmlands and mountains.
What to see or do: As you take a leisurely hike along the trail, you will encounter various historical sites, including ancient tombs, shrines, and ruins of old settlements.
The scenery is breathtaking, with stunning views of the mountains and the countryside. You can also enjoy the serene atmosphere of the forests and hills, which are abundant with lush greenery.
Don’t miss: Visitors should make sure not to miss the Oka-dera Temple, located at the midpoint of the trail. It was built in the 8th century and is one of the oldest temples in Japan.
The temple’s architecture and beautiful gardens are a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking, as the entire trail is unpaved. It is best to visit during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is colorful.
If you plan to visit Oka-dera Temple, be sure to check their website for the admission fee and hours of operation.
Lastly, bring water and some snacks as there aren’t many shops along the way.
15. Asuka Historical National Government Park
A sprawling park that preserves the ancient capital of Japan and gives a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
What to see or do: Explore the ruins of the Asuka period through hiking trails, cycling routes, and guided tours. Marvel at the majestic structures of the Ishibutai tomb, the Kitora tomb, and the Asuka-dera temple.
Admire the intricate beauty of the Takamatsuzuka tomb and its painted murals.
Don’t miss: The Asuka-en garden, with its serene ponds, waterfalls, and cherry blossoms. The Asuka Historical Museum, with its vast collection of artifacts, documents, and multimedia exhibits.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring or fall for milder weather and breathtaking scenery. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities.
Consider renting a bike for a more leisurely exploration of the park. Bring cash as some facilities may not accept credit cards.