What to see

Yoshino
Asuka
Nara
GUIDEBOOK
Asuka
Asuka is a land known as the origin of Japan. This is
where the roots of Japanese spirituality live and breathe.
THE STORY OF ASUKA
Asuka is written with the Chinese characters fly and bird. However, you won’t find the
About 1,400 years ago, the Emperor established the
foundation to mold Japan into a country from Asuka.
People from China and Korea introduced many novel things,
from Buddhism, to different cultures and fine technologies.
As a result, Asuka’s culture blossomed as the first Buddhist
culture in the history of Japan, creating the country’s unique
spiritual landscape.
word Asuka by searching in a Japanese dictionary. Asuka is a phonetic equivalent. It is
said that once upon a time there was a land named Asuka, and later it was mentioned in
Manyoushuu (the oldest existing collection of poetry from the late 7th to 8th century) as
“The village of Asuka of the flying bird.” From then on, a flying bird has represented Asuka.
This village of abundant harvest was indeed also home to many birds which flew in and out.
There are various theories concerning the origin of the word Asuka. One theory is that when
people from the Asian continent came to Japan in search of paradise, some who settled
Many great people throughout history poured their heart and
soul into building Japan. Alongside them, many people lived
simply in joy, in sorrow and in prayer. The unique religious
belief of the Japanese to see divinity in all things can be
observed and felt through many of the relics in Asuka Village.
in this land called it Ansuku, meaning “peaceful homeland” in Korean, which was later
pronounced Asuka. Another theory is that it comes from the ancient Korean word suka,
meaning village, combined with the prefix a. A different theory suggests that it comes from
Asoka The Great, the Indian emperor. In Hindi, Asuka means “the ideal paradise.” Asuka
shares a sentimental meaning beyond borders.
Take a journey through time to feel the origin of Japan, and
envision the lives of the ancient people of Asuka.
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ISHIBUTAI KOFUN
ASUKA-DERA
Ishibutai Kofun which has a magnificent presence in Asuka is the largest known megalithic structure with a
Strolling down the historic streets of Asuka, you will find architecture that represents the roots of Japanese
corridor-type stone chamber in Japan, estimated to be built in the early 7th century. The kofun, or ancient
Buddhism. One perfect example is the Asuka-dera temple. Asuka-dera is regarded as the first proper
tomb, is believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, a member of a powerful clan who served the emperor,
Buddhist temple in Japan, built in 596 by Soga no Umako, a politician from a powerful clan. The temple’s
and also an influential politician. The mound around the kofun, eroded over the years, now exposes the open
main building was rebuilt in 1825 after being twice destroyed by fire. The main object of worship is the
stone chamber. The largest megalith used to form the ceiling weighs approximately 77 tons, and a total of
Seated Shaka Nyorai, also known as the Great Buddha of Asuka by the locals. This is Japan’s oldest Great
2,300 tons of stone was used to create this stone structure. This is evidence of the sophisticated construction
Buddha, made from 15 tons of copper and 30 kilograms of gold. The three-meter-tall Great Buddha has a
technology of the time. The name Ishibuitai, meaning “stone stage,” was taken from its smooth and flat
stern look on its left side and a gentle expression on the right. From the oval shape of the face, the almond
surface that resembles a stage. There are old legends about this kofun passed on to this day: a dancing
shaped eyes and archaic smile you can see many influences from the Asian continent. This Buddha can be
mystical fox that transformed into a girl, and a traveling troupe of actors who danced on the stone stage.
observed from close range and taking photos is permitted. Go meet the Buddha who has been the guardian
Enjoy a moment of silence in the chamber and feel the history of ancient times.
of Asuka, sitting in this same spot for over 1,400 years.
Opening Hours: 8:30-17:00 (No entry after 16:45)
Opening Hours: Apr-Sv ept: 9:00 -17:30 Oct-Mar: 9:00-17:00 Closed: Apr 7-9 (Entry up to 15 min. before closing)
Entry Fee: Adults ¥250 Students: High School: ¥200 Middle School: ¥150 Elementary School: ¥100
Entry Fee: Adults ¥350 Students: High school, Middle school ¥250 Elementary school ¥200
Information: +81-744-54-4577
Information: +81-744-54-4577
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AMAKASHINO-OKA
TANADA SCENIC VIEWPOINT
Amakashino-oka is a hill located on the west edge of Asuka Village, spreading from northeast to southwest
Tanada are rice terraces formed on sharply-sloping fields. Japanese people have developed a rice culture
with an altitude of 148 meters. It is said that Soga no Emishi and his son Iruka, who were influential men from
by living in harmony with nature since ancient times. Asuka’s Tanada convey a strong symbolic image of
a powerful clan, once lived on this hill. Studies say that their house, the Soga Residence, was destroyed in a
Japanese culture. In spring, renge (astragalus blossoms) and nanohana (rape blossoms) are in full bloom
fire during the Taika Reform, a great revolutionary period of ancient political history. From the hilltop, you can
everywhere; in summer, dark-green rice plants grow thick; in autumn, flaming-red higan-bana (cluster
see the Yamato Sanzan (the three mountains of Yamato): Amanokaguyama, Miminashiyama, and Unebiyama
amaryllis) and shimmering-gold rice plants paint a beautiful contrast; and in winter, Japanese pampas grass
Mountains, all settings of myths and legends. Enjoy a great view of Asuka Village–a place which was once the
stands quietly in white snow. The seasonal changes of Tanada will soothe your mind. These magnificent
center of Japan–now resting peacefully. The mystical foggy scenery, the sea of clouds engulfing the valley, the
scenes created through collaboration of people and nature are original landscapes of Japan that should be
silhouette of Yamato Sanzan blazing red in the sunset; these changing scenes are as beautiful as a painting.
preserved forever.
Unwind in the natural scenery of an ancient land and enjoy a journey to the past.
Opening Hours: 24 hours a day
Information: +81-744-54-4577
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Asuka Food & Drink
CAFÉ KOTODAMA
OKUASUKA SARARA
CAFÉ KOTODAMA
A renovated 170-year-old sake brewery, Kotodama is a quaint café
where you can enjoy fine cuisine made with locally-grown vegetables
and other fresh ingredients delivered every morning. Local food
products, selected pottery and sundries suitable for souvenirs are
also on sale.
Opening hours: 10:00-17:00 (until 18:00 on Sat, Sun and national holidays).
Lunch: 11:00-14:00. Café: 14:00 to 30 minutes before closing.
Closed Tues and 3rd Weds of every month (except national holidays).
May be closed irregularly, and take summer and winter breaks. Reservations recommended for lunch.
Contact: cafe.kotodama@gmail.com
OKUASUKA SARARA
A restaurant in an old house, Okuasuka Sarara offers natural fine
dining full of nature’s blessings, including fresh vegetables from their
own garden, local mountain vegetables and boar meat. Enjoy the
simple and heartwarming taste of Asuka.
Opening hours: 11:00-16:00. Closed Mon, Tues, and Weds.
Summer holidays: Aug 1-31. Winter holidays: Dec 21-Jan 31. May be closed irregularly.
COCCOLO CAFÉ
COCCOLO CAFÉ
A café in front of Kintetsu Asuka Station in an attractive, open
atmosphere, featuring a wooden interior and high ceiling. Enjoy a
homemade lunch made with generous portions of local seasonal
vegetables and delicious desserts.
Opening hours: 8:00-19:00. Closed Weds.
Contact: cafeanjou4@gmail.com
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ASUKA YURI-NO-SATO
SHINRAJUKU
Asuka Accomodations
ASUKA YURI-NO-SATO SHINRAJUKU
An 80-year-old traditional Japanese house which has been renovated
into a modern inn, and accommodates just one party per night.
You can stay up to 31 hours, surrounded by abundant nature with
birds singing and a beautiful panoramic view of the countryside.
Enjoy a peaceful time to your full satisfaction.
Check in: 9:00 Check out: 16:00
Fee: 1 person: ¥25,000. 2-8 people: ¥15,000 per person. Children: ¥7,500 per child. Prices include tax.
Meals are optional, advance reservation is required.
Contact: info@asuka-yuri.jp
ASUKA GUEST HOUSE
ASUKA GUEST HOUSE
A guest house that was renovated from a 150-year-old traditional
Japanese house. They offer private rooms remodeled from a Kura
(storehouse), reasonably priced dormitories and a kitchen where you
can cook. Travelers can enjoy socializing in the cozy atmosphere of
a traditional Japanese house combined with modern conveniences.
Check in: 16:00-22:00 Check out: 8:00-11:00
Fee: Dormitory: ¥2,800 per person. Private room: ¥12,000 per room (Up to 4 people). Prices include tax.
Meals are optional, advance reservation is required.
Contact: customer@asukaguesthouse.com • asukaguesthouse.com
KOTORIAN
KOTORIAN
Kotorian is a private inn devoted to serving only one party per night.
They feature essential elements of a traditional Japanese house with
an irori fireplace, futons, a cypress bath and a Japanese garden.
With a view of the garden from the engawa (veranda), you can
enjoy Japanese lifestyle to your heart’s content through the owner’s
hospitality. Many events, including a kimono-dressing experience
(for women only), cherry-viewing party, moon-viewing party, and
seasonal events such as fruit and vegetable picking are also popular
with guests.
Check in: 15:00-20:00 Check out: 12:00
Fee: ¥40,000 (Sunday-Thursday). ¥50,000 (Friday, Saturday, or days before a holiday) for up to 4 adults.
Prices include tax. Extra charge for more than 4 people. Meals not included. Kitchen available for use.
Contact: +81-744-54-1055 • info@kotorian.jp
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Activities
Services
VEGETABLE DYEING WORKSHOP
ASUKA RENT-A-CYCLE
Try vegetable dyeing with a certified instructor using ancient
techniques in Asuka Village, where the original landscape of Japan
is well-preserved.
Cycle across Asuka Village’s old historic district to experience the
beautiful rural landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air, comfortable breeze and
fragrance of the flowers and forests you might miss when traveling by
car or train. There are four shops conveniently located for exploring
historical sites, temples and shrines.
Required time: 2 hours.
Fee: Scarf: ¥12,500 (1-4 people). ¥2,500 per person (5 people or more).
Fee: Handkerchief: ¥7,500 (1-4 people). ¥1,500 per person (5 people or more).
MAGATAMA-WORKSHOP
Enjoy making Magatama, personal adornments worn in ancient Japan.
Required time: 2 hours. Participants: Up to 5 people.
Fee: ¥7,500 (1-2 people). ¥2,500 per person (3-5 people).
SHAKYO EXPERIENCE
Try Shakyo, the Buddhist practice of copying sutras, at a temple in
Asuka Village.
Required time: 2 hours. Participants: Up to 30 people.
Fee: ¥9,000 (1-2 people). ¥3,000 per person (3-30 people).
HISTORY GUIDE TOUR
A former teacher couple living in Asuka Village will guide you to
attractive historical spots in Asuka.
2 or 3 hour tours available. Participants: Up to 5 people.
Fee: 2 hour tour: ¥7,500 (1-2 people). ¥2,500 per person (3-5 people).
Fee: 3 hour tour: ¥9,000 (1-2 people). ¥3,000 per person (3-5 people).
Opening hours: 9:00 -17:00
Fee: Regular bicycles: ¥900 on weekdays, ¥1,000 on Sat, Sun, and national holidays.
Electric bicycles: ¥1,500.
NARA ASUKAKYO HISTORIC WALK
A history app linked to your smartphone or tablets’ GPS.
Enjoy historical stories by audio guide and experience the Asukakyo era
of 1,400 years ago. Take a walk and enjoy comparing historical
Asuka to the present.
For use in Yoshino’s Kami-senbon, Naka-senbon, and Shimo-senbon Parks.
Search Nara Asukakyo Historic Walk in the App Store. Available in English, Chinese and Korean.
ASUKA NAVI
A useful website for searching Asuka’s sightseeing spots, shopping
information, restaurants, and more. Asuka Navi can guide you with
information about bathrooms, rest areas, bicycle rental,
route conditions to sightseeing spots and more.
Available in English, Chinese and Korean.
www.asukanavi.jp
MAKING LUNCH WITH GRANDMA
Why not enjoy Asuka’s home-made dishes at a local home?
The experience of making lunch with a local grandma will become a
cherished memory.
Required time: About 3 hours. Participants: Up to 4 people.
Fee: ¥10,800 (1-3 people). ¥14,040 (4 people).
Reservations required for all activities.
Reservations can be made through Nara Visitor Center & Inn. Contact: +81-742-81-7461
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Yoshino
Imbued with the energy of life, the untouched soul
of Japan exists in Yoshino.
THE STORY OF YOSHINO
Japanese people have a long tradition of worshipping mountains as one of the places
where deities live. The introduction of Buddhism led to a belief that mountains were
sacred sites of deities. People went deep into the woods for ascetic training such as
Shugendo is a syncretic ethnic religion that fuses
ancient Japanese mountain asceticism-shamanism
with diverse teachings. The ethos of Shugendo lies
in mastering the self through undergoing spiritual
experiences. Yoshino is a place where visitors will face
their inner self by understanding their own ego, as well
as by knowing the quintessence of being human.
sleeping on rocks, standing under waterfalls, and other formidable tasks in hope of
attaining the spiritual power of nature and of becoming one with the deities. This is
called Shugendo, Japan’s unique faith that integrates Shintoism, Buddhism and other
spiritual traditions.
En no Ozuno is believed to be the founder of Shugendo. Anecdotal evidence suggests
that Ozuno was a man of mystical powers, and was likened to a legendary wizard or
psychic medium. There are numerous anecdotes about him, including the following
In spring, approximately 30,000 wild cherry trees will
blossom and paint the landscape of Yoshino–the sacred
land of Shugendo–in crimson as if to melt into the spring
haze. The cherry blossoms in Yoshino add color to the
history contained therein. Folklore of both remorse and
fury will no doubt strike a chord with visitors.
reference from the ancient historical document Shoku Nihongi:
“En no Ozuno, who lived in Mt. Katsuragi, was known for his use of mystical powers. However, he was
banished to Izu after one of his followers reported him to authorities for abusing his powers. Rumor had
it that Ozuno made demons collect water and firewood. When they disobeyed, he bound them with his
supernatural powers.”
Some legends said Ozuno lived a quiet life in Izu by day, but flew to Mt. Fuji by night
In Yoshino, Japanese spiritual culture is genuinely
alive with mystic energy that heals the mind and
invigorates the soul.
for ascetic training. He is said to have attained his mystical powers by exposing
his mind and body to extreme difficulties in the mountains of Nara. It’s no wonder
authorities viewed him as a risk that could not be controlled.
The Yoshino area of Nara, where En no Ozuno is believed to have undergone his
tough training, is now respected as a sacred site where deities live. Even today, ascetic
hermits called Yamabushi endure intense training in the harsh wilderness of Yoshino.
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KINPU - JINJA
KINPUSEN-JI
YOSHIMIZU-JINJA
A majestic sanctuary extends over the Kimpusen-ji temple with a breathtaking presence of the main building
Kissuiin, originally a prestigious home for Buddhist monks founded by Enno Gyoja, became Yoshimizu Shrine
of Zao Hall. Amongst numerous temples and shrines in Japan, Kimpusen-ji outrivals them all with its stunning
under the government order to separate Shinto from Buddhism during the Meiji Era. Yoshimizu-jinja–once a
appearance. A colossal roof that sits on the wooden structured building is supported by 68 thick pillars made
stage for numerous historic events–was the Imperial Palace for the 14th-ceuntry Emperor Godaigo, as well as
of trees such as pine, cedar, pear and azalea, untouched and maintaining their natural curves. The Zao Hall
a secret home for 12th-century warlord Minamoto no Yoshitsune, loved by the nation for his ingenious tactics,
and the princely 20 meter tall Gate of Deva have been designated architectural national treasures for their
mysterious life and tragic ending, and his mistress, Shizuka Gozen. The shrine’s shoin, (drawing room) is
phenomenal scale and adornment. The statue of deity Zao gongen is approximately seven meters tall. It is
the oldest in Japan, exhibiting the Emperor’s throne, gorgeous gold folding screens by prominent artists from
said to be Enno Gyoja’s manifestation of a Buddha in the form of an indigenous god after a thousand days
Japanese art history, and armor, weapons and other treasures which belonged to eminent warlords. The
of ascetic training about 1300 years ago. In golden attire over blue skin, Zao gongen’s facial expression
shrine offers a rare opportunity to be immersed in untold stories of Yoshino.
is in rage with a wide open mouth and hair standing on end. Zao gongen is open to the public during a
special exhibition period for approximately one month each year.
Opening Hours: 8:30 -16:30 (No entry after 16:00)
Opening Hours: 9:00 -17:00 (No entry to Shoin after 16:30)
Admission fee: ¥500 (¥1,000 during special exhibition periods)
Admission fee: Adult: ¥400 Students: High school: ¥300 Middle School: ¥200
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YOSHINO MIKUMARI-JINJA
KINPU-JINJA
Mikumari literally means “watershed,” and it is believed that a deity came to this spot to grace the water
Kinpu Shrine, nestled quietly in Okusenbon, an area located at the highest part of the mountain in Yoshino,
spring. Time-honored Yoshino Mikumari Shrine is dedicated to Ame no mikumari no kami, the deity of running
and renowned for cherry blossoms, is dedicated to Kanayama biko no kami, the deity associated with the
water. Its year of foundation is unknown, but the shrine has been attracting people wishing for fertility and safe
local area of Mount Yoshino. The area was once a prospering town under the protection of the shrine, and
birth since the 9th century. The present shrine was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori as a sign of gratitude toward
continues to be a key point on the pilgrimage to Mount Sanjogatake, where a few hundred Shugenja (ascetic
his father, renowned 16th century warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who was blessed with Hideyori’s birth after
monks) dressed in Yamabushi style head for the mountain every year. Yoshitsune’s Hideout Tower is located
praying for a son at the shrine while cherry blossom viewing. The courtyard, surrounded by a building with
about three minutes down the slope, where the tragic warlord Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his loyal subject
beautifully painted sculpture, is wrapped in an air of sanctity as if time has stopped.
Benkei hid to escape from their foes. The tower is one of the centers of Omine asceticism. Closing the door
will turn the inside to pitch darkness, where Shugenja chant spells and turn clockwise three times to oust evil
spirits. Drifting in the aura of these deep mountains, visitors will sense the history of Yoshino.
Opening hours: 8:00-16:00 (Open until 17:00 in April)
Opening hours: 24 hours a day
Admission fee: Free
Admission fee: Free (¥300 for Yoshitsune’s Hideout Tower)
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Yoshino Food & Drink
HYOTAROU
Persimmon-leaf sushi is a local preserved food which has been
eaten in Yoshino since old times. As Yamato (the old name for
Nara) was far from the ocean, fish were very valuable in old times.
Wise ancestors wrapped the fish with persimmon leaves, which had
good natural preservative qualities. The best time to eat this kind of
sushi is the day following their preparation. Enjoy the taste of this
historic cuisine with the fresh and light scent of persimmon leaves.
HYOTAROU
Opening hours: 9:00 -16:00. Closed Mon.
HOKON-AN
Hokon-an is the first teahouse on Mt. Yoshino that started serving
Yoshino’s specialty sweets, kuzu-mochi (arrowroot cake) and
kuzu-kiri (sliced arrowroot) made from arrowroot of the legume
family. They use plenty of locally-grown ingredients such as
kuzu, red beans, and toasted soybean flour, all essential to
Japanese confectionery. Refreshing kuzu sweets and a cup of
enriching tea will help relieve the weariness of your journey.
Opening hours: 9:00-17:30. Open every day.
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HOKON-AN
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KIZO-IN
Yoshino Accomodations
KIZO-IN
Widely known as Bekkaku Honzan (associate head temple) of
Kyoto’s Shogo-in Monzeki, as well as one of the Goji-in (temples
guarding sacred mountains) of the Omine Mountains, Kizo-in passes
down the history of Shugendo to modern times. This venerable
temple has another face as a Shukubo-hotel that provides spacious
rooms and delightful views. For breakfast and dinner, Japanese
food cooked with Yoshino’s fresh vegetables and local specialties
are served. Kizo-in also has lodging on Mt. Sanjogatake in the
Omine Mountains to accommodate Shugenja and tourists.
Check in: 15:00 Check out: 10:00
Fee: From ¥8,000 per person with two meals. From ¥12,000 during cherry blossom season.
Price does not include tax.
RYOKAN KATO
Ryokan Kato is a warm, Japanese-style log home built with Yoshino’s
local cedar and hinoki cypress. They will delight you with dishes full of
freshly-picked seasonal mountain vegetables all obtained locally, and
an open-air bath where you can look up at the stars on clear nights.
You can also try making Yoshino Paper and kuzu sweets, or experience
a morning religious service of Shugendo.
Check in: 15:00 Check out: 10:00
Fee: Rooms for two from ¥7,000 per person. Price does not include tax or meal.
Plans including meals are also available.
Reservation and Contact: www.kato-yoshino.jp
CHIKURIN-IN
CHIKURIN-IN GUMPOEN
With a garden of about 33,000 square meters, Gumpoen, one of the
three finest gardens in Yamato (Nara), the Chikurin-in has been loved
by writers and artists who left their mark on Japanese history. From the
open-air bath, you can enjoy a view of the garden said to be redesigned
by Sen-no-Rikyu, the founder of Sen-ke-ryu. Buddhist cuisine with
1300 years of history, as well as local seasonal delicacies, are especially
popular among vegetarians visiting from overseas.
Check in: 15:00 Check out: 10:00
Fee: From ¥15,000 per person with two meals. Price does not include tax.
Reservation and Contact: +81-746-32-8081　or www.chikurin.co.jp
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OTA-OUKADO
Yoshino Specialties
OTA-OUKADO
TANISHIMA SEISHINDO
The kindhearted owner and his wife welcome you into the shop with
bright smiles. They have kept and passed on the tradition of Yoshinobina–simple and cute hina dolls crafted in this shop–that will make
you smile when you put them in your palm. Take them home as a
memory of your journey. Find your favorite item from various specialties
including Yoshino Paper, the finest paper crafted piece by piece, as well
as Yoshino-Kuzu, kuzu sweets, conch shells, and Omine ritual articles.
Opening hours: 8:00-18:00. May be closed irregularly.
TANISHIMA-SEISHINDO
Yoshino Paper, a Japanese paper with 1300 years of history, is
used for art restoration around the world. See original tapestries
and paper fans made with Yoshino Paper, tea leaf boxes and
Japanese tableware made of cherrywood skin. Take them in
your hands and feel the beauty of Japanese craftwork.
Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (7:00 -17:00 during cherry blossom season). May be closed irregularly.
YOSHINO-KYUSUKEDO
YOSHINO-KYUSUKEDO
Yoshino-Kuzu, starch made from arrowroot, has long been
used for medicine and food in many ways due to its elegant
taste and nutritional value. Handmade kuzu sweets made
with traditional techniques make for the perfect souvenir.
Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (8:00-17:00 during cherry blossom season). May be closed irregularly.
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TSUBUROKO ONSEN
Yoshino Onsen
TSUBUROKO ONSEN
This one-day visit hot spring, Ryujin-no-yu, is located in nature,
allowing the visitor to experience the elegance of each season in an
atmosphere that feels like a secret bath. A Japanese style resting room
is available for ¥1,000 per hour. Enjoy the local specialty of Nabe
(hot pot), set meals, and noodles at the diner.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 12:00-21:00. Weekends and holidays: 10:00-21:00.
Shop holidays: Tues, Wed.
Fee: Adult: ¥700 Children: ¥400. Including towels and Yukata: Adult ¥1,000 Children ¥700.
MATSUYA MIYATAKI ONSEN
MATSUYA MIYATAKI ONSEN
Matsuya owns its own abundant 18 degree spring. From the bath,
a panoramic view of Yoshino River opens before your eyes. You can
also enjoy seasonal cuisine made from local ingredients.
Opening hours: 12:00-15:00. May be closed irregularly.
Fee: ¥2,700 for a one day course (seasonal set meal and bathing included).
Price does not include tax. Accommodation also available. Reservations required.
NAKASYO ONSEN
A natural hot spring located inside Nara’s Yoshino River Tsuburo
Lake Park. The bath is known for its soothing effect and the scenic
beauty of Yoshino River opens up outside the bath window. Enjoy
Yoshino local specialties like persimmon-leaf sushi and mountain
vegetables at the diner.
NAKASYO ONSEN
Opening hours: Jun-Sept: 10:00-20:00 (Bath 12:00-19:00).
Oct to May: 10:00-19:00 (Bath 12:00-18:00). Weekdays: 13:00-18:00.
Closed Tues, 1st and 3rd Mon, days following national holidays, and Dec 29-Jan 2.
Fee: Adult: ¥700 Children: ¥350.
HOW TO ENJOY ONSEN (HOT SPRING BATH)
Rinse your body with hot water in the shower area.
Wash your body and head with soap and shampoo, and rinse completely.
Soak your body in the hot water in the bath and relax.
Exit the bath and return to the changing room after drying off with your towel.
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Events Calendar
LATE SEPTEMBER
48th Moon Viewing from the Manyo’s Asuka
Asuka Village
Services
SEIMEI-KAN
Tourist Information Center
Seimei-kan is Nara’s tourist information center located at the foot of
Mt. Yoshino. Here you can organize up to 20 different experiences.
You can even dress up as Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a 12th century
samurai, and his mistress Shizuka Gozen, while a photographer follows
you around Mt. Yoshino taking professional pictures for a whole day
(¥69,800 per person). Local food, drinks and other special items are
for sale, and free seating is available in the rest area.
ACTIVITIES
Make your own tea stirrer
Shakyo (transcribe Buddhist sutras)
Trekking in the woods
Morning and evening religious services at Zao-do
Dispel evil spirits at Yoshimizu-jingu Shrine
Kuzu-kiri cooking
Sake tasting and brewery tour
Japanese papermaking
Beneath the night sky, experience the moonlit world of the Manyo.
Cluster-Amaryllis Festival
Inabuchi district, Asuka Village
See a parade with effigies and ancient costumes, while bewitching
cluster-amaryllis flowers burst into full bloom.
MID NOVEMBER TO EARLY DECEMBER
Oka-dera Maple Festival
Asuka Village
Maple leaves ablaze the temple grounds. Oka-dera is one of the few
spots known for gorgeous maple leaves in Asuka village.
AUGUST 14 (FRI.)
Yoshino Gongen Cherry Lantern and Bon Dance Festival
Througout the Mt. Yoshino area
Gentle lights wrap all of Yoshino in an air of mystery.
NOVEMBER 7 (SAT.) - 29 (SUN.) 17:00-21:00
Mt. Yoshino Autumn Foliage Illumination
Yoshino Town
Lights illuminate the world heritage site of Mt. Yoshino,
embraced by beautiful Maple leaves.
Opening hours: 10:00-17:00 (10:00-21:00 during cherry blossom season). Contact: +81-746-39-0010
Reservations required for all activities.
Reservations can be made through Nara Visitor Center & Inn. Contact: +81-742-81-7461
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Access from major cities in Japan
01 FROM TOKYO TO KYOTO 140 minutes by JR Shinkansen (Nozomi) 02 FROM KYOTO TO JR NARA 45 minutes by JR
Rapid Express 03 FROM KYOTO TO KINTESU NARA 35 minutes by Kintetsu Limited Express 04 FROM KANSAI INT’L AIRPORT TO KINTESU NARA 85 minutes by airport limousine bus 05 FROM KANSAI INT’L AIRPORT TO NAMBA 40 minutes by
Nankai Limited Express FROM NAMBA TO KINTESU NARA 40 minutes by Kintetsu Rapid Express 06 FROM KANSAI INT’L
AIRPORT TO TENNOJI 35 minutes by JR Limited Express FROM TENNOJI TO JR NARA 35 Minutes by JR Yamatoji Rapid
Express Travel times are approximate.
Access from Nara to Asuka/Yoshino
01 5 minutes by Kintetsu Namba/Nara 02 25 minutes by Kintetsu Kashihara Limited Express 03 5 minutes by Kintetsu
Yoshino Limited Express 04 40 minutes by Kintetsu Yoshino Limited Express Travel times are approximate.
Nara Excursion Bus
ASUKA-YOSHINO DAY TRIP
FOR ASUKA AND YOSHINO
9:00 Nara Visitor Center & Inn 10:20 Asuka Ishibutai Kofun Parking 11:05 Mt. Yoshino Sightseeing Parking
FOR NARA VISITOR CENTER & INN
15:30 Mt. Yoshino Sightseeing Parking 16:15 Asuka Ishibutai Kofun Parking 17:30 Nara Visitor Center & Inn
MORE INFORMATION
www.welcome-nara.jp/global
www.facebook.com/naraisjapan (Nara Japan-Past and Present)
NARA VISITOR CENTER & INN
Address: 3 Ikeno-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture, 630-8361 • Phone: +81-742-81-7461
Opening Hours: 8:00-21:00 (Inn will be open in late 2016)
PRODUCED BY NARA PREFECTURE
Address: 30 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8501, Japan • Phone: +81-742-27-8553
*Note: Information featured in this brochure is subject to change with no advance notice.