2-Day, 1-Night Tour: Discover Food and Culture in Asuka Village
2 days
Enjoy a 2-day, 1-night cultural escape to Asuka Village, Japan’s ancient capital. This guided tour includes traditional food, historic site visits, and hands-on experiences like soy sauce brewing and rice ball making, all set in beautiful countryside scenery.
Begin your journey from Kyoto with a comfortable ride on the Kintetsu Limited Express train. This scenic route takes you through the countryside toward historic Nara Prefecture.
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Asuka Village, Nara
At the Asuka Stand, join a hands-on experience to make traditional grilled rice balls using red rice, the same kind eaten in ancient Japan. You’ll also visit a historic soy sauce brewery during this activity.
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Ishibutai Tumulus, 254 Asuka, Nara
Explore one of Japan’s most iconic stone burial mounds. Your guide will share insights into the legends and history of this ancient structure.
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Asuka Niimasu Jinja, 708 Asuka, Nara
Discover Asuka Shrine, an important spiritual site with deep cultural roots. Enjoy a short guided tour, or choose to take a short break instead.
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682 Asuka, Nara
Next, you’ll visit one of Japan’s oldest temples, home to Japan’s first large Buddha statue. Learn about its religious and architectural importance.
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660 Asuka, Nara
Settle into your beautifully restored traditional inn, a cultural property over 150 years old. Enjoy a bit of rest before dinner. Savor a warm and hearty Asuka nabe hotpot at 18:00, made with local chicken, vegetables, and milk-based broth—an ancient recipe passed down through the region.
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788 Toyoura, Asuka, Nara
Start your day with the peaceful Asageshiki trekking tour. Walk through quiet mountain trails and enjoy a plant-based breakfast at one of Asuka’s most scenic viewpoints. Freshly roasted coffee will be served on-site.
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660 Asuka, Nara
After the trek, return to the villa to freshen up and pack your belongings. Your concierge will assist if needed, and your luggage will be ready when you're done. Your guide will meet you again at the villa and escort you to a local lunch spot. The restaurant serves regional specialties made with seasonal ingredients.
After lunch, a taxi will take you back to Kashihara-Jingu-mae Station. The return time can be adjusted if needed—just let the staff know on the day.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, children aged 3 and up are welcome to join the tour. The activities are family-friendly and involve gentle walking, food experiences, and cultural sightseeing.
Minor changes, such as adjusting the return taxi time on Day 2 or changing meals for allergy needs, can be arranged. However, the main schedule and included experiences are set to ensure a smooth, high-quality experience for all guests.
You’ll stay at Branciera Villa Asuka, a traditional Japanese house that is over 150 years old and registered as a tangible cultural property. It has modern comforts like heating, cooling, and private bathing facilities while preserving its historic charm.
It is recommended to bring a small backpack, bottled water, and rain gear if the weather forecast calls for it. Comfortable walking shoes are also advised for the trekking and walking portions.
Dinner on the first night is a traditional Asuka nabe hotpot made with chicken, vegetables, and a rich milk-based broth. Breakfast on the second day is a vegan-friendly outdoor meal served during the trekking tour. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions in advance.
