Discover the remarkable tomb of Emperor Tenmu and Empress Jitō in Asuka, Nara. Learn why this unusual octagonal burial mound holds an important place in Japan's imperial history and UNESCO World Heritage.

Explore Asuka by bicycle, sightseeing bus, or on foot. Learn the advantages of each option and choose the best way to visit ancient temples, tombs, and palace ruins.

Nara Park's deer population has reached a record 1,687. Discover why the number is rising, what it means for the park, and how visitors can help protect Nara's famous deer.

Discover Asuka-dera, Japan's first full-scale Buddhist temple, where the ancient Asuka Daibutsu and archaeological remains reveal the arrival of Buddhism and new ideas from East Asia.

Step inside Ishibutai Kofun, Asuka's monumental stone tomb, and discover its enormous burial chamber, ancient construction, and mysterious connection to Soga no Umako.

Planning your first day in Asuka? Follow this suggested itinerary through ancient temples, palace ruins, kofun, and the peaceful countryside where early Japanese history unfolded.

Planning a trip to Asuka? Learn the easiest ways to reach Asuka from Osaka and Kyoto, which station to use, and how to explore the area after you arrive.

Discover the 19 sites of the Ancient Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara and learn how palaces, Buddhist temples, and ancient tombs tell the story of Japan's early state formation.

Discover Asuka, one of the birthplaces of ancient Japan, where temples, kofun burial mounds, palace ruins, and archaeological sites reveal the origins of the Japanese state.