Manyo Bunkakan

The Complex of Manyo Culture (万葉文化館, Manyō Bunkakan) is a spacious, beautifully designed museum in Asuka that celebrates the Manyoshu, Japan’s oldest and most treasured poetry collection. Written mostly during the Asuka Period (538–710), the poems capture early Japanese beauty and often mention local landmarks like the Yamato mountains. The museum stands on the site of Japan’s first known mint, whose remains and ancient coins are also on display.

The museum has two main exhibition halls—one features modern artwork inspired by the Manyoshu, and the other is an immersive space with life-size models, a theater, and dramatic exhibits. There’s also a reading room, a special exhibit area, a gift shop, and a relaxing café. It’s a great place to enjoy art, history, and literature all in one setting.