Kusaki-zome (“plant dyeing”) is a method of dyeing cloth using a solution made by boiling natural plants and trees including red rice, madder, plum, and chestnut taro. Those vegetations grown in Asuka are mentioned in Manyoshu, the oldest anthology of poetry in the country compiled during the 7th and 8th centuries. Replicating the ancient method as possible, visitors can experience the traditional Kusaki-zome using seasonal plants and trees brought from different parts of the village. Choose your favorite color and design, and bring back home the beautiful handkerchiefs that you dye on the day.

At this beautifully renovated ""kominka"" (old house in Japanese), coffee made with home-roasted beans is served following the traditional style of Japanese tea ceremony. The owner came up with this unique combination as an ideal way to free guests from excessive formalism and allow them to experience the true essence of tea ceremony which deeply reflects the spirit of Zen.
With the scenery of the village spreading out beyond the window as a backdrop, seasonal flowers decorate the room.

Visit a local farm and get to know about their way of life in “Satoyama” where people live sustainably with the surrounding nature. A unique experience with a local farmer will be arranged such as harvesting local produce, making onigiri rice balls etc. The content varies depending on the season.

Experience Shakyo at the temple where sutra copying was said to be first performed in Japan. Recent studies have shown that the human brain is more likely to come up with inspirations and new ideas when it is in a state of absentmindedness, without any distraction. As you mindlessly perform Shakyo while feeling the breeze of Asuka, something you never thought of may come to mind.
After the sutra copying, take a break and enjoy matcha green tea with Japanese confectionery to recap the experience.

Visit Tokuhoshi Soy Sauce Brewery, a small family-run brewery making soy sauce with more than 100 years of history. This small brewery still keeps the old-fashioned style of soy sauce making, using wooden barrels (kioke). Learn the process of soy sauce making and enjoy soy sauce squeezing experience. During the brewery visit, make sure to taste their soy sauce and feel the difference.

Asuka is a small area of about 4 kilometers square that consists of a narrow basin and gentle hills. Exploring the village with a rental bicycle is a very popular way among many visitors. Feel the breeze and enjoy the scenery while making your way through Asuka. A stop at one of the cafes for lunch or break is a great way to experience the charm of the village.