In the 7th century, when Asuka was the capital of Japan, day after day, no rain fell. The powerful Soga clan and local shrine priests tried various rituals and even offered valuable livestock as sacrifices—but nothing worked. It was then..

Asuka may be best known for its ancient history, but between temples, tombs, and rice fields, you’ll find a small but vibrant café scene that feels deeply rooted in everyday village life.

Long before Asuka was recorded in history books, its fields, hills, and seasons were already being captured in poetry. The landscapes that surround the village today are the same ones that moved people to put their feelings into words more than a thousand years ago.