What to know
Amakashi Hill (甘樫丘, Amakashi no Oka) sits in the heart of the Asuka region and offers some of the best panoramic views around. From its 150-meter summit, you can see the three sacred Yamato mountains celebrated in the Manyoshu poetry anthology: Mount Unebi to the west (behind Kashihara Shrine), Mount Miminashi to the north, and Mount Amanokagu to the east. Many other Asuka landmarks are also visible from this lookout.
Beyond the scenery, the hill has a fascinating history. It is thought to have been the residence of Soga Emishi and his son Soga Iruka. The Soga clan dominated politics during most of the Asuka Period (528–710). After Iruka was assassinated in 645, the clan's power ended, transforming Japan's political landscape. The former imperial palace site, where the assassination occurred, can also be seen from the hill—now covered by rice fields.
Amakashi Hill is next to the Asuka Daibutsu bus stop, served by the Kame Loop Bus from Kashiharajingu-mae Station (22 minutes, 290 yen, one bus per hour). You can also cycle there in about 15 minutes from the station.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Asuka Historical National Government Park
- Original name
- Amakashi Hill
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