What is

Discover NARA?

Immerse yourself

in the timeless spirit of Nara’s ancient past

Hase-dera Temple: Interior of a traditional Asian temple with wooden architecture, paper lanterns, hanging banners, and scenic mountain view through open windows.

Who We Are – Local Guide of Asuka & Fujiwara Tours

Discover Nara is a local tour company specializing in guided tours of Asuka and Fujiwara, the cradle of Japan’s ancient civilization. Founded by locals from Kashihara City in Nara Prefecture, our mission is to connect travelers with the spiritual heart of Japan.

We are just ordinary locals who grew up among the historic landscapes, sacred temples, and ancient ruins of this region. Because this has always been our home, we know its stories, rhythms, and hidden gems better than anyone.

A wooden bell tower with a large, decorative bell inside, partially obscured by green foliage, showing the rustic wood structure and roof.

Why We Offer Asuka & Fujiwara Tours

We created these Asuka and Fujiwara heritage tours to help foreign visitors discover a side of Japan that many never see - peaceful countryside, authentic traditions, and deeply rooted history.

While famous spots such as Nara Park - home to the Great Buddha of Todai-ji Temple and its charming deer - attract large crowds (and are indeed filled with international visitors), the quiet countryside of Asuka and Fujiwara remains largely untouched by foreign tourism. Here, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the authentic heart of traditional Japan still lives on.

These ancient capitals - dating back over 1,400 years - offer a rare chance to explore Japan’s beginnings without the distractions of modern tourism.

If you're searching for a meaningful travel experience that blends nature, culture, and quiet reflection, we believe you’ll fall in love with Asuka and Fujiwara just like we did.

Yakushi-ji Temple: Monks walking in traditional robes outside a historic Japanese temple with a bright blue sky

What’s Included in Our Ancient Japan Tours

Each tour is led by a local guide-driver who provides personal support throughout your journey.

At each location, we provide a brief explanation, but you are generally free to explore ancient temples, burial mounds, museums, and other sites at your own pace. We make sure you have plenty of time to enjoy each place in the way that suits you best.

Your guide will assist with ticket purchases, share important cultural guidelines, warnings, and information, and help bridge any language barriers, so even if you don’t speak Japanese, you can relax and fully enjoy this journey into historic Japan.