21 places on the main route where we can experience Japanese history
(3) Ishibutai Tomb, Asuka, Nara
(C)T.Okamoto
Asuka is a tranquil pastoral village where there was an ancient state between the 5th and 6th centuries. The village is dotted with many mysterious stone structures such as the Ishibutai tomb, Kameishi (tortoise stone), Saruishi (monkey stone), and Nimenishi (double-faced stone). The Ishibutai tomb consists of more than 30 big stones weighing 75 tons or so. The Takamatsuzuka Wall Paintings, which suggest a close relationship with an ancient Korean state, were excavated here. If you wish to go round the area it is a good idea to rent a bicycle near Kintetsu Railway Asuka Station.
