Nara
One-day tour of Asuka to explore an ancient Japanese culture
Activity duration
About 8 hours
Maximum Participants
Up to 4 people
Languages
English
Meeting place
Kintetsu Yamato Yagi station
Overview
Experience the ancient history and culture of Japan with our tour of Asuka, Nara, where you will explore the famous tombs of the Asuka period.
During the tour, you will visit various historical landmarks, including Kengoshizuka-Burial Mound, Asuka-dera Temple, Ishibutai Burial Mound, and Oka-dera Temple. These sites are known for their ancient architecture, intricate carvings, and fascinating history.
Also, you will have a delicious Japanese-style lunch in this tour.
In addition to sightseeing, you will also have the opportunity to learn about the cultural significance and symbolism behind these famous tombs. An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing detailed explanations and answering any questions.
This tour is perfect for those who love history and culture and want to experience the fascinating world of ancient Japan.
Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Asuka, Nara. Book your tour today and discover the wonders of Japan's ancient past!
Meet your Locals
Request to book, or just ask a question first — about this activity.
Route
- 1
Tachibana-dera Temple
The date of its founding is unknown. It is said to be the birthplace of Shotoku Taishi, the most famous historical figure in Japan. and one of the seven temples built by Prince Shotoku. 66 halls lined the temple grounds in the 8th century, and the temple was a large temple with a Shitennoji-style layout. The temple stands in the beautiful Asuka landscape. The highlight of the temple is a seated statue of Prince Shotoku from the Muromachi period (Important Cultural Property).
- 2
Lunch
Please enjoy the local cuisine of the Asuka region.
- 3
Ishibutai Burial Mound
It is one of the largest square mounds in Japan. The mound has a unique shape in that no fill remains at all, exposing a huge, double-sleeved, side-anchored stone chamber. The roof stone has a wide, flat top, giving it the appearance of a stage, hence the name "Ishibutai" (stone stage). The total weight of the 30 or so rocks is approximately 2,300 tons, and the ceiling stone in particular is quite heavy, weighing approximately 77 tons, indicating the superior civil engineering and transportation technology of the time when it was built.
- 4
Oka-dera Temple
Founded in 663. The official name of the temple is Ryubutsuji, but it is affectionately called Oka-dera, meaning "temple in Oka" in Japanese. The main deity, Nyoirin Kannon, is the largest plastic statue in Japan and was built in the Nara period (710-794). As Japan's first sacred site for exorcism, Oka-dera Temple is visited by many people from all over Japan who pray to be rid of bad luck. You can experience a special goma prayer to ward off bad luck.
- 5
Asuka-dera Temple
The principal image of the temple, the seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, is made of copper and designated as a National Important Cultural Property. In 605, the emperor of the time, together with Prince Shotoku, Prince Soga, and other princes, initiated the construction of this statue, which is the oldest large statue of Buddha in Japan, by Kurusakudori (a Buddhist priest from the Baekje Dynasty).
- 6
Kengoshizuka-Burial Mound
Excavations since 2009 have revealed that the tomb is an octagonal burial mound, raising the possibility that it is the mausoleum of Emperor Saimei, a female emperor of the Asuka period and the mother of Emperors Tenchi and Temmu.
What's included
Transportation,Lunch,Admission fee
Not included
What happens after you request
- 1
Send your request
Pick your dates and party size and send a request. No payment yet.
- 2
Decide the details together
Chat with the Locals to work out the date, plan, and final price together.
- 3
Pay securely
Once confirmed, pay through a secure link to lock in your booking.
- 4
Enjoy your experience
Meet your Locals host on the day and enjoy. You can leave a review afterwards.
For cancellation fees, see our Cancellation Policy.
Meeting point
Kintetsu Yamato Yagi station
We'll meet at the ticket gate of Yamato Yagi Station.
Things to know
Transportation is by hired car. Cycling is also popular in Asuka Village, so if you wish, part of the tour can be made into a cycling tour.
More experiences by these Locals
Approx. ¥60,000 / guest
More to explore in Nara
Spots in the same area as this activity. Some may be a train or car ride away.
Nara
Kasuga Taisha Shrine
Three thousand lanterns glow twice a year in the sacred deer-filled forest.
