Asuka is a true treasure for archeologist. Excavations continuously dig up beautiful historical artefacts we can admire in Asuka-dera or in Asuka Historical Museum.

Asuka-dera buddhist temple is a little bit far for everything but is a must to visit. It served as an imperial palace. The Great Buddha is as greatful as when the statue were made back in the times. It dates from 609, is more than 1400 years old and is the eldest bronze Buddha of Japan. 

We can pass and make a little stop to this ancient imperial workshop from the 7th century recently rediscovered.

7th century megalith and water container. What was it for? We will make a little stop here and think about it.

Itabuki Imperial Palace dates from the 7th century and now we can admire its remains between the fields.

Asuka is nowadays a big village of 5620 inhabitants. Relatively nearby Kansai cities, farmers and townsmen who aim for a better life quality live together. This village is still proud of its past and show it to us. Japanese urbanism is respected and we can feel an Edo atmosphère (1600-1868). We can do some shipping and have some lunch during our route.

We continue our walk and we have the Asuka Historical Park. Its masterpiece is Ishibutai, a stone burial mount from the 7th century for Soga no Umako who were a powerful noble from these ancient times.

Takamatsuzuka kofun date from the end of the 7th century. It has inside wonderful murals which represents life and religious moments. We can go to admire them in Takamatsuzuka Mural Museum nearby.