Discover Asuka

Travel back in time with a visit to Asuka, a well-preserved ancient town dating from the Edo period (1603-1867). Explore the town's mysterious stones and burial mounds, and enhance your understanding of its rich history at the Asuka Historical Museum.

Things to see and do

FAQs

Getting around in Asuka

The easiest way to get around in Asuka is by car, since many of the major sights and attractions are not accessible by public transportation.
If you decide to rent a car, it is advised to do so from one of the bigger cities in the vicinity. You can use our car rental widget in the FAQ menu below. 

Getting to Asuka

Valid passes:

  • Nara Bus 2-Day Wide Pass

    • Coverage:

      • all Nara Kotsu buses within Nara City

      • also covers buses within Ikaruga

      • also covers buses within Asuka

    • Duration: 1 day

    • Price: 1000 Yen

    • Where to buy: Nara Station

 

Nearest airport: 

The nearest and most convenient airport is Kansai International Airport in Osaka. 

  • by car: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

 

Rental cars:

How long to stay in Asuka

We recommend staying in Asuka for about two days.

Seasonal information

Fruit picking:
January to March is generally a great time to pick strawberries in Japan.

 

Scenic rides:

  • Katsuragisan Ropeway: Click here to find the most up-to-date timetable for this ropeway. 

 

Hiking:
The hiking season typically runs from Spring until Autumn.

Festivals in Asuka

There are several festivals here throughout the year. Please be advised that the following list is based upon previous entries of those festivals and that the dates might have changed for the following year. It is also possible that the entire festival is cancelled in the case of heavy rainfall or a natural disaster. Please check with the official organisers' website for the most up-to-date information. 
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For the exact location of any of the festivals listed here, you can consult our map above by clicking on the icon in the upper most corner of the map to open the map legend. Festivals are hidden by default but can be made visible by clicking on the "Festivals" checkbox in the map legend.

 

  • Asuka Furusato Summer Festival

    • Date: August 15th

    • Time: 17:00 - 21:00

 

  • Asuka Hikari no Kairou Festival

    • Date: September 21st and 22nd

    • Time: 18:00 - 21:00
       

  • Ancient City Asuka Cultural Festival

    • Date: October 26th and 27th

Hotels in Asuka

Flights to Asuka

Nearest airport: 

The nearest and most convenient airport is Kansai International Airport in Osaka. 

  • by car: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Getting mobile data in Japan

Day trips from Asuka

Visit Yoshino in Nara, a quaint, small village famous for its annual cherry blossom display. The village also features world-class temples and a ropeway that leads to unique viewpoints of ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 12.05

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Less than an hour from Kyoto, discover the historical city of Nara, where friendly deer roam the streets, gardens, and temple grounds. As a former capital, Nara boasts beautiful historical ...

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Distance, km: 23.68

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Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the pristine beauty of Akame Waterfalls. Situated in the heart of Muro Akame Aoyama National Park, visitors can marvel at the stunning waterfalls, swim ...

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Distance, km: 26.74

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Journey to Mount Ikoma, the focal point of Ikoma's attractions. Choose between taking the cable car or hiking up the mountain, making sure to pass by the majestic Hozanji Temple. ...

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Distance, km: 27.12

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Koyasan is revered as one of Japan's most significant religious sites, being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism. Immerse yourself in this sacred atmosphere by spending a night at one of ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 35.20

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Experience the energy of Osaka, one of the world's largest metropolises and Japan's second-largest city. With countless shopping opportunities and fascinating history to explore, be sure to plan a multi-day ...

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Distance, km: 36.46

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Dive into the fascinating world of ninjas in Iga, the perfect destination for anyone interested in learning more about these legendary figures. Visit the Ninja Museum, where you can engage ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 43.79

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Uji, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a wide array of ancient and religious temples, beautiful parks, local shopping streets, and even a water park to cool off ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 46.62

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Discover the often-overlooked Oyamazaki, located just outside of Kyoto. This hidden gem boasts several intriguing sights and museums that provide an engaging insight into Japan's rich history and culture. Don't ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 48.89

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Just north of Osaka lies Minoo, a city that boasts one of the oldest parks in Japan. Explore Minoo Park, with its walking trails, temples, and the famous Minoo Falls ...

Travel time:

Distance, km: 52.42

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