Asuka Palace Site

Japan’s First

Imperial Capital

Hidden in the peaceful fields of Asuka Village lies a site of profound historical importance: the Asuka Palace Site （飛鳥宮跡）, the political heart of Japan in the 7th century. Constructed in 592 AD under Empress Suiko, this was the first permanent palace in Japan’s history, serving as the center of governance during a time of revolutionary change. Here, Prince Shotoku is believed to have introduced the Seventeen-Article Constitution in 604, laying the foundation for a centralized state influenced by Chinese models of administration. Archaeological excavations have uncovered foundation stones, tile fragments, and layout traces that bring ancient court life vividly back to life. Despite being lesser-known, this site invites historically curious travelers to walk the very ground where Japan’s imperial system first took shape— before Kyoto or Nara came to power.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Asuka Palace Site to life.

Asuka Palace Site: A traditional Japanese wooden sign with Japanese text, surrounded by a small fence, on a tile and concrete walkway with greenery. In the background, there are fields, a few small buildings, trees, and a group of people walking on t
Asuka Palace Site: Two people walking across a grassy field on a sunny day with a blue sky and scattered clouds, green trees and small buildings in the background.
Asuka Palace Site: Ancient stone ruins in an open field with grassy surroundings and a small nearby village, under a partly cloudy sky.
Asuka Palace Site: Ruins of ancient stone structure with a square opening in the center, surrounded by a stone pavement, in a grassy open field with trees and hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Asuka Palace Site: Close-up view of ancient stone pavement with irregularly shaped dark stones and a narrow path in the center, surrounded by larger stones.
Asuka Palace Site: Ancient stone pathway in a grassy outdoor area with trees, buildings, and mountains in the background on a partly cloudy day.
Asuka Palace Site: Ancient cobblestone street with raised stone sidewalks on either side and a narrow path in the middle, with small patches of grass growing between the stones.
Asuka Palace Site: A pathway of large, dark rocks with some patches of grass growing in between, leading to a grassy area.
Asuka Palace Site: People walking along a narrow path through lush green fields with a small village and forested hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Asuka Palace Site: Ancient black stone ruins in a grassy open field under a blue sky with white clouds, small groups of people exploring, distant trees and traditional buildings.