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Offered languages
- English
Are you ready to pedal through 1,400 years of Japanese history? Immerse yourself in the birthplace of Japanese civilization and glide effortlessly past ancient burial mounds, sacred temples, mysterious megalithic stones and terraced rice fields that have barely changed since the Asuka Period. Welcome to Asuka, Japan's imperial heartland — and one of the country's most rewarding and least crowded cycling destinations. With the power of an E-bike beneath you, even the rolling hills of the Yamato countryside become a pleasure. A truly unforgettable addition to any Japan itinerary!
WHAT MAKES THIS TOUR UNIQUE
・Carefully designed to visit all the iconic "must-see" sites of the Asuka region
・E-bikes make the gentle hills effortless, so you spend more time exploring
・Small group experience away from the crowds of Kyoto and Nara
・Expert guide with deep knowledge of Asuka's mythology, archaeology and culture
・An intimate mix of nature, history and rural Japanese life you will never forget
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Your guide will be waiting for you at the station gate.
Itinerary
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1
Your day begins at Asuka Station, where you'll meet your guide, get a quick debrief on the adventure ahead, and collect your E-bike and helmet. Then you're off — rolling straight into one of Japan's most historically rich landscapes.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Your first stop is the Takamatsuzuka Tumulus, one of Japan's most celebrated ancient burial mounds, famous for its vivid 7th-century wall paintings. From there, a short ride brings you to the breathtaking Inabuchi Rice Terraces — cascading stepped paddies draped across the hillside, and one of the most quietly beautiful scenes in all of rural Japan.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
From there, a short ride brings you to the breathtaking Inabuchi Rice Terraces — cascading stepped paddies draped across the hillside, and one of the most quietly beautiful scenes in all of rural Japan.
25 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Next up is the Ishibutai Tumulus, Japan's largest exposed megalithic burial chamber, where massive granite stones have sat in silent mystery for over 1,400 years.
25 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5
A short pedal away, the hilltop Oka-dera Temple offers a moment of calm alongside one of Japan's oldest and most atmospheric sacred spaces.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
6
Two of Asuka's most curious and enigmatic stone relics — the Sakafuneishi, a large carved stone whose true purpose still puzzles historians.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
The Kamegata Sekizobutsu, a boulder carved into the shape of a tortoise. Strange, wonderful and unlike anything else you'll see in Japan.
15 minutes • Admission ticket included -
8
Founded in 596 AD, Asuka-dera is Japan's oldest Buddhist temple and home to the ancient Asuka Daibutsu — a bronze Buddha that has watched over this valley for centuries. You'll have plenty of free time here to wander the quiet grounds and take it all in at your own pace.
35 minutes • Admission ticket included -
9
A short ride and a gentle climb brings you to this hilltop viewpoint, where the entire Asuka Plain unfolds before you — ancient mounds, temple rooftops and patchwork rice fields stretching into the distance. A perfect spot to pause and appreciate just how much history surrounds you.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
10Kashihara Jingu
The spiritual highlight of the day. Kashihara Jingu is Japan's most sacred Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first Emperor of Japan. You'll have generous free time to explore the grand halls, stroll the forested grounds and absorb the serene and powerful atmosphere of this truly remarkable place.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
11
The region's most enigmatic megalithic monuments.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Back at the station, you'll return your bikes and say goodbye — though the memories of this ancient valley will stay with you long after you've boarded your train. This tour is the perfect blend of history, nature, culture and gentle adventure — a truly unique and unforgettable way to experience a side of Japan that most visitors never find.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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