Walk Japan's Oldest Road: Yamanobe no Michi from Kyoto

Long before Kyoto became Japan's imperial capital and centuries before the country's great castles and temples were built, a quiet road wound its way through the eastern foothills of the Nara Basin. Known as Yamanobe no Michi, it is the oldest named road recorded in Japanese history, appearing in both the Kojiki (712 AD) and Nihon Shoki (720 AD), though the trail itself is believed to be far older.

Today, this peaceful walking trail offers a rare opportunity to experience rural Japan while exploring the landscapes where the foundations of Japanese civilization first emerged. Following ancient footpaths through rice fields, orchards, forests, and traditional villages, you'll discover sacred shrines, enormous imperial burial mounds, and some of the country's oldest surviving religious sites.

Along the way, visit Omiwa Jinja, regarded as Japan's oldest shrine, where the sacred Mount Miwa itself is worshipped as the deity, and Isonokami Jingu, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, renowned for its ancient swords and deep connections to the early imperial court. You'll also walk beside some of Japan's largest kofun (ancient burial mounds), believed to hold the tombs of early emperors and legendary rulers who shaped the nation's earliest history.

Far removed from the crowds of Kyoto and Nara Park, this journey combines history, mythology, nature, and local culture to reveal a side of Japan that few international visitors ever experience.

Highlights

• Visit Omiwa Jinja, considered Japan's oldest shrine, where the sacred mountain itself is worshipped as the deity.
• Explore Isonokami Jingu, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines and home to centuries of legendary swords and imperial history.
• Discover enormous kofun burial mounds, including tombs associated with Emperor Sujin, Emperor Keiko, and the legendary Queen Himiko.
• Enjoy a peaceful countryside hike through forests, rice fields, orchards, and traditional farming villages.
• Experience authentic rural Japan with seasonal fruit stands, local specialties, and opportunities to taste the famous Miwa somen noodles.

Description

Step back in time as you walk Yamanobe no Michi, the oldest named road in Japan and one of the country's most fascinating historical trails. Winding through the peaceful countryside of Nara Prefecture, this ancient route connects some of Japan's oldest shrines, mysterious imperial tombs, and traditional farming villages.

Beginning at Omiwa Jinja, considered Japan's oldest shrine, you'll learn about the origins of Shinto, the sacred Mount Miwa, and the traditions that shaped early Japanese civilization. As the walk continues through orchards, rice fields, and quiet country lanes, your guide will introduce the legends, history, and mythology that make this region the birthplace of Japan.

Along the trail, you'll pass several enormous kofun burial mounds, including tombs associated with Emperor Sujin, Emperor Keiko, and the legendary Queen Himiko. You'll also discover hidden cultural treasures along the route, including Hibara Shrine, one of Japan's oldest sacred sites connected to the worship of the sun goddess Amaterasu, and Chōgakuji Temple, a peaceful temple surrounded by gardens and seasonal beauty. The trail also passes Sumo Shrine, a small but fascinating site connected to the legendary origins of Japanese sumo wrestling.

The tour concludes at Isonokami Jingu, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, famous for its sacred swords, ancient history, and free-roaming chickens. Combining history, mythology, nature, and local culture, this is an unforgettable journey through the landscapes where Japan's story began.

As the day draws to a close, relax on the journey back to Kyoto while reflecting on a landscape where Japan's oldest history, mythology, and traditions still shape everyday life. Depending on the day's pace, there may also be time for a brief visit to the impressive Tenrikyo Headquarters, offering one final glimpse into Japan's rich and evolving spiritual heritage.

MEETUP POINT

Kyoto Tower Sando Starbucks @ 8:20 A.M.

Meet-Up Location: Starbucks Coffee — Kyoto Tower Sando (just outside Kyoto Tower) Please try to arrive 15 minutes before meetup time.

Directions:

• Exit Kyoto Station via the Central (Chūō) Exit on the north side of the station.
• Walk straight ahead across the bus terminal and pass the traffic lights in front of Kyoto Tower.
• The Starbucks is on the first floor of the Kyoto Tower Sando commercial building, right beside the tower entrance.

Look for the familiar green logo at the base of the tower—we’ll be waiting there with a “Snow Monkey Resorts” sign.

Notes

Tour Availability Disclaimer

All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments.

Included

• English-speaking guide
• Guided hike along Yamanobe no Michi
• Transportation during the tour

Excluded

• Lunch
• Additional food and drinks
• Personal expenses

Other Information

• Approximately 11 km (7 miles) of walking over mostly flat trails and country roads.
• Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
• Lunch is not included. Your guide will recommend a local restaurant serving the famous Miwa somen noodles.
• The itinerary may change depending on weather, local conditions, and transportation schedules.