Asuka and Sakurai Attractions

Cherry blossoms and Kannon statue

Omiwa Shrine honors Mount Miwa as a sacred god. See the rare triple torii gate with a priest’s guide and enjoy the quiet forest path to nearby Hibara Shrine.

Kashihara Shrine is a peaceful forest shrine honoring Japan’s first emperor. Enjoy scenic walks, historic buildings from Kyoto, and a deep connection to Japan’s early history.

Muroji Temple offers a tranquil retreat in the mountains near Sakurai City. Famous for its wooden structures and rich history, it’s a peaceful place for spiritual reflection and breathtaking views.

Tanzan Shrine near Sakurai is known for its 13-story pagoda, stunning fall colors, hillside setting, and lively food stalls during peak autumn leaf season in November.

Asukadera Temple in Asuka features Japan’s oldest Buddha statue, a peaceful setting, and deep history dating back to 596, making it a fascinating spot for culture lovers.

Ishibutai Tomb features giant stones forming an ancient burial chamber believed to house Soga Umako. Walk inside and explore its powerful history in a quiet Asuka park.

Yamanobe-no-michi Trail offers a scenic walk through villages, shrines, temples, and ancient tombs, linking Omiwa Shrine in Sakurai to Isonokami Shrine in Tenri.

Takamatsuzuka Tomb shows off colorful murals of Asuka Beauties, male figures, and mythical creatures. See lifelike recreations in the nearby Mural Hall set in a peaceful park.

Amakashi Hill offers stunning views of Yamato's three mountains and has ties to the powerful Soga clan, with historic spots and peaceful countryside all around.

The Asuka Museum explores the Asuka Period with ancient stone fountains, historical reconstructions, and exhibits that showcase early Japanese culture and art.

Complex of Manyo Culture blends art, poetry, and history in a museum featuring ancient coins, immersive exhibits, modern art, and poems rooted in the scenic Asuka region.

Archaeological Institute of Kashihara offers a deep dive into Japan’s early history with ancient artifacts, tomb discoveries, and exhibitions from Jomon to Muromachi periods.

Chogakuji Temple features seasonal gardens, rare Buddhist art, and a September lantern festival where the temple glows with hundreds of soft candlelit lanterns.

Isonokami Shrine in Tenri is one of Japan’s oldest shrines, linked to ancient swords, myths, and the Mononobe clan. Set in cedar forests, it ends the scenic Yamanobe-no-michi Trail.

Hibara Shrine, once home to Amaterasu’s spirit, offers scenic views and a unique sunset sight during equinoxes, with three torii gates facing sacred Mt. Miwa.

Hanairaka Information Center offers a model of historic Imaicho and old photos that bring the town’s merchant history to life—perfect before or after exploring the preserved streets.

Imanishi House in Imaicho is a grand Edo-period home that also served as a town court. Bookings are required, but same-day visits are possible with help from the Hanairaka Center.

Shonenji Temple in Nara's Imai-cho district is a peaceful historic site where Emperor Meiji once stayed. A key temple of the Honganji sect, it's now under preservation as a cultural treasure.

Yonetani Residence in Kashihara is a free-to-enter Edo-era townhouse with a rare 5-room layout and film ties to Rurouni Kenshin, perfect for architecture and history lovers.