About this tour

Step back in time to the roots of Japanese civilization with a journey through Asuka Village, the cradle of Japan’s ancient history. This curated tour takes you to three iconic landmarks: Asuka-dera Temple, Oka-dera Temple, and the mysterious Ishibutai Tumulus—each offering a unique window into the spiritual, political, and artistic transformations of early Japan.

Begin at Asuka-dera, founded in 596 CE and widely recognized as the first full-scale Buddhist temple in Japan. It is home to the Asuka Daibutsu, the oldest known Buddhist statue in the country. Next, ascend to Okadera, a sacred site nestled in the hills and dedicated to the goddess of purification. Famous for its seasonal beauty and Japan’s largest clay Buddha statue, Okadera offers both tranquility and breathtaking views of the Asuka countryside.

Finally, explore the enigmatic Ishibutai Tumulus, a massive stone burial chamber believed to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, a powerful statesman of the 6th century. Its megalithic scale and engineering marvel still astonish visitors today.

Together, these three sites form a journey through Japan’s formative centuries—a rich blend of myth, history, and cultural legacy, all surrounded by Asuka’s serene landscapes.