Yamanobe-no-michi Trail

Recommended

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9 of 21 in Asuka And Sakurai

The Yamanobe-no-michi Trail (山辺の道) is Japan’s oldest recorded road, now a peaceful walking route through Nara’s countryside. The most popular 11-kilometer stretch runs between Omiwa Shrine in Sakurai and Isonokami Shrine in Tenri. Along the way, you’ll pass historic spots like Hibara Shrine with its rare triple torii gate, and Chogakuji Temple, home to Japan’s oldest wooden bell tower gate and a small Japanese garden. You’ll also see one of the region’s largest ancient tombs, believed to belong to Emperor Sujin.

The trail winds through small villages, farmlands, and wooded areas. Most of it is unpaved, but the walk is gentle with a few steep spots. Signs along the way are in English and other languages, and there are vending machines, restrooms, and fruit stands. The rural views offer a peaceful contrast to the urban basin below, making it a scenic and enjoyable hike for those who want to explore Japan’s ancient roots.

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Isonokami Shrine

Chogakuji Temple

Omiwa Shrine

Hibara Shrine

Getting there

The Yamanobe-no-michi Trail runs alongside the JR Sakurai Line, which connects Nara with Sakurai. The most popular part of the trail goes from Isonokami Shrine near Tenri Station to Omiwa Shrine near Miwa Station. You can also start or end your walk at other stations along the line.

Getting to Isonokami Shrine:
From Tenri Station, it's about a 30–40 minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride (around 1000 yen). Tenri Station is on the JR Sakurai Line, with direct trains from Nara (15 minutes, 210 yen, 2 trains per hour).

Getting to Omiwa Shrine:
Omiwa Shrine is just a 10-minute walk from Miwa Station on the JR Sakurai Line. Miwa Station has trains from Nara (25 minutes, 330 yen) and Sakurai (3 minutes, 150 yen), running twice an hour. You can also take a taxi from Sakurai Station to the shrine in about 10 minutes (around 1000 yen).