Nara World Heritage: Asuka E-Bike & Megalith Cycling Tour

4 hours

Easy

Escape the crowds and explore Japan's newest World Heritage site on an E-Bike. Cycle through Asuka's peaceful countryside, uncover mysterious ancient megaliths, and visit Japan's oldest Buddha.

Escape the overwhelming tourist crowds of Kyoto and Nara City, and journey into the peaceful, picturesque countryside of Asuka—Japan's newest UNESCO World Heritage site and the true birthplace of the Japanese state. On this premium 4-hour E-Bike tour, you will breeze through stunning terraced rice fields and ancient history without breaking a sweat. 

1. E-Bike Countryside Ride (The Rural Landscapes) After meeting your guide and picking up your electric-assist bicycles (E-Bikes), we will ride into the stunning rural landscapes of the Asuka region. Feel the fresh breeze as you cycle effortlessly past traditional farmhouses, green rice paddies, and rolling hills that look exactly as they did centuries ago. 

2. Ishibutai Tomb & Megalith Mysteries (Ancient Stones) We will park our bikes to explore Asuka's most famous enigma: the Ishibutai Kofun. Enter the massive, exposed stone burial chamber of a 7th-century political leader. Your guide will also lead you to hidden, mysterious carved megaliths—like the Turtle Stone (Kame-ishi) and Sake-Ship Stone (Sakafune-ishi)—sharing the myths and theories behind these ancient puzzles. 

3. Asuka-dera Temple (Japan's Oldest Buddha) Conclude the historical journey at Asuka-dera, one of Japan's oldest temples. Here, you will come face-to-face with the Asuka Great Buddha, the oldest surviving bronze Buddha statue in Japan, before enjoying a scenic ride back to the station. 

Please note that this is an outdoor cycling tour. In the rare event of severe weather conditions that make cycling unsafe, we can adjust the itinerary to a walking or taxi-based tour, or suggest an alternative option based on your preferences.

What's included?
    • Local guide
    Exclusions
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        What to bring