Nara Prefecture was once the capital of Japan. In ancient times, this land was at the ful-crum of Japanese history. Even today, numerous historic sites remain, including archi-tecture and Buddhist statues designated as National Treasures, and Important Cultural Properties. When visiting in person, not only the grandeur of such sites but also the region’s vibrant natural beauty makes a deep impression. Here is an introduction to Asuka, a place to feel history and romance.10Climb the steep slope to reach Okadera Temple. The main figure of the seated Nyoirin Kannon is the oldest surviving example of this bodhisattva, and the largest clay Buddha stat-ue in Japan (Important Cultural Property). The flowers in every season and the view from the temple are splendid. From Amakashi Hill, the stunning view en-compasses the Yamato Sanzan mountains and the ancient ruins of Fujiwarakyo and Asukakyo. At the southern end of Asuka Village, known as Oku-Asuka, the three settlements of Inabuchi, Kayanomori, and Nyudani, near the source of the Asuka River, have been nationally desig-nated as Important Cultural Landscapes. The changing forms of the rice terraces reflect the character of each season.Bicycles are a great way to get around, but when you want to stop for a closer look or to take a break, dealing with what to do with the bike can be sometimes cumbersome. Since a spectacular fall two years ago, I have shied away from bicycles, so being able to reach the many sights of Asuka on foot is a true joy. I never tire of the scenery on such walks. Buses and on-de-mand rideshare services are also readily avail-able which, combined with walking, opens op-tions to cover greater distances.cafe KotodamaA cafe renovated from a 200-year-old for-mer sake brewery residence, one of the old-est in Asuka. The popular Kotodama lunch (1,600 yen, tax incl.) is packed with a wealth of delicious, locally sourced ingredients from Asuka Village, including fresh vegetables cho-sen at the farmer’s market every morning, local chicken, soy sauce, rice and much more. Asuka Tour Bus (commonly known as “Kame Bus”)1-day free pass (adult 750 yen)Asuka on-demand rideshare service500 yen/per person, 1 tripTake a breakAsuka, past & presentThe southern half of Nara Prefecture is in the Kii Mountain Range. In the region from Asuka to Yoshino, the mountains and plains inter-twine. For roughly 100 years from the late 6th century to the end of the 7th century, Asuka was the center of Japan, and the place where continental culture first took root. Around the Yamato Sanzan mountains, the capital of Fujiwarakyo and other castle towns rose up while Buddhist culture flourished in the era known in art history as the “Asuka period.” The land of this illustrious history is now a ru-ral area of idyllic scenery.Healing tranquilityAs a mountain lover, the scenery of Japan’s peaceful countryside known as “satoyama” is a sight that never fails to touch my heart. The slow flow of time under the wide open skies soothes my mind. If you feel up for it, a walk does wonders. In the pastoral setting around the National Asuka Historical Park and Tachibanadera Temple, we feel the time-less nature of Japan’s original natural scenery as it once was long ago. ASUKA AREA曾經是日本都城所在的奈良縣，是古代日本歷史的核心地帶，許多歷史名勝、國寶和重要文化資產的建築與佛像留存至今。實際造訪當地後，不僅能感受到規模之宏大，也會為豐富的自然感到驚豔。接下來要為大家介紹這般富含歷史與浪漫的飛鳥地區。Kotodama咖啡廳這間咖啡廳是由位於明日香地區、擁有 200年歷史的舊酒廠建築改裝而成。深受歡迎的Kotodama午間套餐（含稅價1,600日圓），使用每天早上於當地農產直銷店選購的新鮮蔬菜、在地飼養的土雞、醬油與米等製成，滿滿都是採收自明日香村的美味恩賜。小憩片刻AsukaLand of ancient romance & healing古代浪漫與療癒之地
元のページ ../index.html#26