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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Kashihara.
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Kashihara is like a hidden treasure chest filled with endless opportunities for adventure and cultural immersion.
From exploring ancient temples to hiking through breathtaking landscapes, the possibilities are as diverse as the city itself.
Whether you’re seeking solace in nature or a thrilling urban experience, Kashihara has something for everyone.
Join us as we embark on a journey through the wonders of this enchanting city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kashihara:
1. Kashihara Jingu Shrine
Kashihara Jingu Shrine is a sacred Shinto shrine located in Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grand architecture and serene surroundings of the shrine complex. Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and learn about the history and significance of the shrine.
Don’t miss: The main hall, known as the haiden, is the largest building in the shrine complex. It features a majestic roof adorned with intricate carvings and a massive wooden torii gate at the entrance.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the annual Kashihara Shrine festival, held in early October. The festival features a colorful parade and various traditional performances.
Don’t forget to try the delicious local delicacies available at the food stalls. Be mindful of proper shrine etiquette, such as washing your hands at the purification fountain before entering the main hall.
2. Ishibutai Tomb
A historical tomb believed to be the final resting place of the powerful Soga clan leader, Umako, from the 7th century.
What to see or do: Explore the tomb’s impressive architecture and learn about its fascinating history through interactive displays and exhibits in the nearby museum.
Don’t miss: The massive stone chamber and the intricate details of the tomb’s construction.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the tomb and museum are located on a hill and involve some walking. Try to visit during the week when the site is less crowded.
Consider hiring a local tour guide for a more in-depth experience.
3. Omizo Yashiki (Omizo Mansion)
A historic mansion in Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, traditional Japanese architecture, and learn about the history of the Omizo family who once lived in the mansion.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the traditional Japanese garden, including a pond and waterfall, which is especially beautiful during autumn when the leaves turn red and gold.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting on a weekday when the site is likely to be less busy. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the tour of the mansion involves some walking and climbing stairs.
4. Kashiharajingu-Mae Station
A train station located in Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The station building incorporates traditional Japanese architectural elements and provides easy access to popular tourist destinations such as the nearby Kashihara Shrine and the ancient tomb of Emperor Jimmu.
Don’t miss: The station’s interior decor features colorful wall art depicting scenes from Japanese mythology and history.
Insider travel tips: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a picture with the station’s adorable mascot, “Kumarun,” a cute and friendly deer character who represents the local wildlife and culture of the area.
Additionally, be sure to check the train schedule in advance as the station operates on a limited schedule.
5. Mount Kagu
A mountain located in the city of Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a hike up the mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
The mountain is also home to numerous temples and shrines, including the Kagu Shrine, which is said to date back over 1,500 years.
Don’t miss: The autumn foliage season is a particularly popular time to visit Mount Kagu, when the surrounding trees burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Visitors can also see a large statue of the Buddha near the summit of the mountain.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail up Mount Kagu can be steep at times.
It’s also recommended to bring a bottle of water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months when temperatures can be high.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can help avoid crowds and provide stunning views of the sunrise or sunset.
6. Takamatsuzuka Tomb
The Takamatsuzuka Tomb is a stunning burial mound located in Kashihara, Japan. It is famous for its intricate wall paintings, which date back to the late 7th or early 8th century.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the tomb and admire the beautiful paintings that depict various scenes, including Chinese zodiac signs, noblemen, and mythical creatures.
Learn about the history of the site and the theories surrounding its purpose.
Don’t miss: The central painting of the tomb is a depiction of the constellation Orion, which is a rare example in Japanese art.
Marvel at the beautiful details and the use of gold leaf in the painting.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to book a tour in advance, as visits to the tomb are limited and regulated. Take the time to explore the rest of the area, which includes a small museum and several other tombs.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and stairs.
7. Horyu-ji Temple
One of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, established in 607 AD.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture of the temple’s main hall, pagoda, and other structures. Explore the various artifacts in the temple’s museum, including ancient texts and artworks.
Don’t miss: The temple’s central treasure, the world’s oldest surviving wooden building, the Yumedono or Hall of Dreams. It contains beautifully preserved statues and paintings from the 7th century.
Insider travel tips: Visitors must take off their shoes when entering the temple buildings. Sunday mornings are the busiest, so plan accordingly.
Take time to stroll through the tranquil gardens. Visit during cherry blossom season for a stunning view.
8. Asuka-dera Temple
A historic Buddhist temple located in Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the ancient architecture and beautiful gardens of Asuka-dera Temple. Explore the grounds to see the impressive pagoda, main hall, and other structures dating back to the 6th century.
Don’t miss: The Asuka-dera Museum, which houses many important artifacts related to the temple’s history and Buddhist art.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved. Plan to visit in the fall to see the stunning autumn foliage in the temple gardens.
It is also recommended to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
9. Murou-ji Temple
Murou-ji Temple is situated in Kashihara, Nara, Japan. This is a historic Buddist temple that is said to be founded in the 7th century.
What to see or do: While visiting Murou-ji Temple, you can explore the stunning architecture and tranquil gardens. You’ll see the main hall, pagoda and in the autumn months, the stunning fall leaves.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of this temple is the Konjikido Hall which houses the biggest wooden statue of the Amida Nyorai in the country.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit early morning to beat the crowds and catch the morning sunlight. Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy the gardens and also don’t forget to try the local sesame tofu or goma dofu.
10. Kintetsu Kashiharajingu Station
A train station located in the city of Kashihara, Japan and operated by Kintetsu Railway.
What to see or do: Visit the nearby Kashihara Shrine, one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan, which is just a short walk from the station.
Take in the beautiful architecture and learn about the history and customs surrounding the shrine.
Don’t miss: The annual Kashihara Shrine festival, held every October, which includes traditional music, dance, and food.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try some of the local delicacies, such as kaki no ha sushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) or kuzu-mochi (sweet mochi made from kudzu starch) at one of the many restaurants near the station.
Also, consider taking a stroll through the nearby Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly deer, or visiting some of the other nearby historic sites, such as the Asuka-dera temple or the Ishibutai tomb.
11. Chogaku-ji Temple
Chogaku-ji is a Buddhist temple located in Kashihara city, Nara prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander the serene temple grounds and admire the ancient architecture, including the main hall which houses a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the Japanese Buddha of healing.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Chogaku-ji is the vast cherry blossom tree in the temple grounds that blooms in early spring, creating a stunning backdrop for photos.
Insider travel tips: For an even more special experience, visit Chogaku-ji during the autumn foliage season when the temple grounds are covered in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs to climb up to the main hall.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
12. Tachibana-dera Temple
A historic Buddhist temple located in Kashihara, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture of the temple and its surrounding gardens, pay respects to the many Buddha statues and relics on display, and learn about the temple’s long and fascinating history.
Don’t miss: The impressive three-story pagoda, which dates back to the Kamakura period and is a designated national treasure of Japan.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit during the spring or fall, when the gardens are at their most vibrant and breathtaking.
Additionally, take the time to explore the nearby town of Kashihara, which is known for its traditional charm and friendly locals.
13. Fujinoki Tomb
Fujinoki Tomb is an ancient burial mound in Kashihara, Japan, which is believed to have been built during the Kofun period (250-600 AD).
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grounds around the tomb and appreciate the scale and grandeur of this historical structure. The tomb is surrounded by a moat and a fence, which adds to its mystique.
Walking trails around the tomb provide a scenic escape into nature.
Don’t miss: At the site, there is a museum display, which offers a mesmerizing insight into the lives of people during the Kofun period.
The displays include ancient pottery, armor, and other artifacts that give a glimpse into the culture of that period.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes to explore the grounds of the tomb.
Exploring the area in autumn is the best time of the year as the foliage is stunning, and there are several food stalls set up outside the tomb during the season.
To beat the crowds, it’s best to visit the tomb early in the morning. The museum displays have descriptions in both Japanese and English.