Visit Japan Web Yamanobe Road
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Yamanobe Road, located along the eastern perimeter of the Nara Basin. It is the oldest road in Japan. Shinkaido is originally from Edo and has a rich history. It meanders through a landscape adorned with the burial mounds of emperors and abandoned temple ruins. Forming part of the Shinkaido, this historic route offers tranquil hiking opportunities and valuable insights into rural life in Japan.
Visitors can get there directly from Kyoto or Osaka, but it is easily to access from Nara Station. Travelers will have the chance to interact with amiable locals. They can also purchase fresh agricultural produce from unstaffed stalls along the path. This route came into use as early as the 8th century to connect the ancient capital of Nara with the rural mountain town of Sakurai. The remnants along the 15-kilometer stretch between Isonokami and Sakurai bear testimony to its ancient heritage.
The town of Tenri is home to the esteemed Isonokami-jingu Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Although the shrine’s early history is shrouded in legend, it is widely believed to have had significant connections with the Imperial Court.
Shinto belief played a central role in the administration of the Yamato court. Mount Miwa was likely one of these sacred sites and is not available for climbing. However, visitors are permitted to consume water from the mountain’s springs within the vicinity of the nearby Sai-jinja Shrine.
Sakurai City itself is a historic trading hub adorned with ancient temples and shrines. For example, Abe Monjuin Temple, venerating the Buddhist deity of wisdom as well as Omiwa-jinja.
