Asuka and Kashihara Ancient History Cycling Course Ishibutai and Stone Relics

The Asuka period was when the nation of Japan took shape. Asuka village, the stage for that era, is a spiritual homeland where tombs and mysterious stone relics dot a peaceful rural landscape. Riding a rental cycle along quiet roads, this one day course lets you soak in the romance of ancient history, finishing at Kashihara Jingu.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Kintetsu Asuka Station Rent a bicycle at the shop by the station and set off. An electric assist bike makes the slopes easy.

9:30 Takamatsuzuka Tomb and Mural Hall A tomb famous for its colorful murals. View the reproduced figures, such as the group of court ladies, in the adjacent mural hall.

10:15 Kameishi turtle stone A mysterious stone shaped like a turtle sitting beside the road. Why it was made is still not clearly understood.

10:45 Tachibanadera A temple said to be the birthplace of Prince Shotoku. It stands amid peaceful fields, and the two faced stone is a curious sight.

11:30 Ishibutai Tomb One of Japans largest stone burial chambers built from massive boulders. Said to be the tomb of Soga no Umako, you can step inside. The most striking spot on the course.

12:30 Lunch near Ishibutai Rest at the park or a local restaurant and enjoy a lunch made with regional ingredients.

13:30 Asukadera A temple housing the Asuka Great Buddha, one of Japans oldest Buddhist statues. Sit calmly before its gentle expression.

14:15 Sakafuneishi and turtle shaped stone View stone remains whose purpose is still a mystery. They are thought to be a site of ancient ritual.

15:15 On to Kashihara Jingu Ride northwest from Asuka to Kashihara Jingu, which enshrines the first emperor Jimmu. The spacious grounds and solemn halls are a must see.

16:15 Return cycle at Kashiharajingumae Station Return the rental cycle and end the day.

Highlights

The biggest highlight is the Ishibutai Tomb. Its exposed giant stone chamber is overwhelming, and stepping inside reveals the technical skill of ancient times. The murals of Takamatsuzuka and mysterious stones like Kameishi and Sakafuneishi are uniquely Asuka. The Asuka Great Buddha at Asukadera is a precious witness to the dawn of Japanese Buddhism.

Access and Tips

The hub is Kintetsu Asuka Station. Since the sites are spread out, a rental cycle is by far the most convenient. There are ups and downs, so an electric assist bike is recommended. A loop bus also runs, so mix and match according to your stamina. Choosing a shop where you can drop off the cycle at Kashiharajingumae Station is efficient.

A Quick Tip

The field roads have little shade, so bring a hat and drinks. Some roads between sites are hard to follow, so riding with a sightseeing map is reassuring.