Inabuchi area is one of top 100 Terraced Paddy fields in Japan, which attracts many people. The paddy fields at the slope along the mountain are very narrow which makes it difficult for farmers to use heavy equipment. Therefore, there are quite a few rice paddies that have been abandoned and no longer cultivated. In …

Hydrangea loves water, which blooms in the rainy season in Japan. It’s the symbolic flower of the season that clears up a gloomy mood in a prolonged rain. ‘Nara Prefecture Complex of Man’yo Culture’ in Asuka is famous for it. We call the rainy season “Tsuyu” which literally means “ plum rain” ,because it starts …

People used to believe that a divine spirit dwells in the stone. There is one such at Sakata district of Asuka village, which is popular for the view of beautiful paddy fields. Long time ago, when a stonecutter tried to cut the huge stone, suddenly the injured snake appeared. Later at night, he suffered from …

Rice has long been the staple food of Japan. There are three different types of rice, as you may know about short-grain rice (Japonica-rice), long-grain rice (Indica-rice), and middle-sized rice (Javanican rice). The rice grown in Japan is a sticky rather sweet short-grain rice. There are over five hundred and seventy kinds grown in Japan. …

In 2013 young farmers in Asuka started a local organic marche, held every Friday morning next to Asuka bus stop. Since then, it’s been increasing the number of team members including food shops and holding interesting events every once in a while. Various unique customers have visited Asuka Bio Marche for local grown organic vegetables …

“ ．．pani” is a cozy little cafe nearby Asuka station. This takeaway store is managed by a charming woman, providing parfaits with all sorts of fresh seasonal fruits, refreshing drinks and snacks. Her desserts are not only sweet but spices hidden for foodies who are always looking for something special and new. There are customers …

Jizo is a stone sculpture you may see along the countryside road in Japan. There are various comforting Jizo statues in Asuka, Yamato. Officially it’s called Jizo Bodhisattva. It is one of the Bodhisattvas which are the objects of worship for Buddhists. It means “Mother of Earth” in Sanskrit. While Buddha is away, from the …

Golden Week is Japanese favorite spring holiday week from the end of April to the early May. During this season, in the temple courtyard, the flower pond has been set to welcome us. A Japanese rose~山吹~, Rhododendron~石楠花~, Fringed iris~シャガ~ and Dahlia decorate all around the courtyard which fascinate all travellers. Surprisingly more than 3000 rhododendrons …

1400 years ago, Asuka, Yamato was the first capital of Japan. They adapted various techniques, culture, religions and then established legislations in order to rule the country. Moreover, the first water clock and coin was made here. This ancient dress was for Japanese nobles who ruled the country with the most advanced technology of the …