The Asuka region, including Asuka Village, is known as the birthplace of Japan.
It is a place where not only Japanese people, but visitors from around the world can feel the spiritual hometown of Japan.
Through international exchange with China and the Korean Peninsula,
Asuka became a place where the foundations of the nation were formed and new culture began.Archaeological remains beneath the ground testify to the birth of Japan’s first centralized state.
During the Asuka period, this region was connected to the wider world through the Silk Road.By embracing diverse cultures, it flourished and gave rise to the rich, internationally influenced culture of ancient Japan.
In Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, where numerous Asuka period heritage sites remain, the entire village is protected from development with the objectives of “preserving historical heritage” and “improving the living environment for residents.”
The heritage of Asuka has been passed down through layers of history, culture, and nature.
Asuka Local Guides walk alongside each guest’s interests and questions,
leading them on a journey to truly experience the value of these legacies.
Asuka and Fujiwara, the birthplace of Japan’s nationhood,
where invaluable heritage sites such as the Ishibutai and Takamatsuzuka Tombs are scattered.
(Located across Asuka Village, Kashihara City, and Sakurai City — aiming for World Heritage inscription in July 2026)
Trace the footsteps of Empress Suiko and other empresses who led the nation with strong determination.
This journey invites you to discover their passion in shaping the foundations of politics and culture, and to experience the grand stories engraved in the land of Asuka.
(Sites located across Asuka Village, Kashihara City, and Takatori Town — recognized by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in April 2015)
Asuka Village has been recognized as a “Best Tourism Village” by UN Tourism.
Its commitment to preserving historical heritage and natural landscapes, while promoting sustainable tourism, has earned global recognition.
Here, you can experience Japan’s timeless original landscape, admired by the world.
(Certified in October 2025)
Asuka and Fujiwara, the birthplace of Japan’s nationhood, where invaluable heritage sites such as the Ishibutai and Takamatsuzuka Tombs are scattered. (Located across Asuka Village, Kashihara City, and Sakurai City — aiming for World Heritage inscription in July 2026)
Trace the footsteps of Empress Suiko and other empresses who led the nation with strong determination. This journey invites you to discover their passion in shaping the foundations of politics and culture, and to experience the grand stories engraved in the land of Asuka. (Sites located across Asuka Village, Kashihara City, and Takatori Town — recognized by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in April 2015)
Asuka Village has been recognized as a “Best Tourism Village” by UN Tourism. Its commitment to preserving historical heritage and natural landscapes, while promoting sustainable tourism, has earned global recognition. Here, you can experience Japan’s timeless original landscape, admired by the world. (Certified in October 2025)
There are many stories in Asuka that you won’t discover just by “looking” at the ruins and scenery.
The origins of the land, the lives of the people, and the meanings hidden in the everyday scenery.
Asuka Local Guides will explain this background in an easy-to-understand manner, valuing dialogue.
We will guide you through a memorable time in Asuka, catering to your individual interests and travel goals.
Learn about Asuka through a local guide
Explore Asuka at your own pace—alone, or with family or a small group.
Walk among ancient ruins, burial mounds, temples and shrines, or travel by rental bicycle through beautiful rice terraces and satoyama landscapes.
Through your own steps and senses, you can experience the true, unspoiled spirit of Asuka.
Explore Asuka with a local guide and discover the “birthplace of Japan.”
See the massive stones of the Ishibutai Tumulus, Asuka-dera with Japan’s oldest Buddhist statue, and the richly painted murals of the Takamatsuzuka and Kitora Tumuli. Visit the Iwayayama Tumulus, hidden within the village, and the mysterious stone monuments such as Sakafuneishi and the Turtle-Shaped Stone.
With clear and engaging explanations from local guides, deepen your understanding of Asuka and experience the true value of its heritage.
Tours are available in English and other languages.
Once you’ve gained a basic understanding of Asuka,
take the next step and experience a “stay like a local” journey in Asuka.
Choose from unique accommodations such as renovated traditional houses, local homestays, as well as hotels and auberges. Enjoy meals made with Asuka’s rice, vegetables, and seasonal fruits.
Here, too, local guides will lead you to a deeper experience of Asuka. Through warm interactions with local residents, you’ll come to feel Asuka as a place close to your heart.
Please use Asuka Local Guide’s “Request Form.”
