Japan’s Oldest “Yamanobe-no-Michi” – Sakura and Spring Delicacies at Unmanned Farm Stands

The "Yamanobe-no-Michi" is the oldest existing road in Japan, stretching along the beautiful foothills of the Aogaki Mountains on the eastern edge of the Nara Basin. Along the path, place names and legends related to ancient Japanese chronicles such as the Kojiki and Manyoshu remain, while sacred shrines, ancient temples, and burial mounds appear one after another, drawing visitors into the world of ancient romance. Among them, the route from Omiwa Shrine to Ishigami Shrine is the highlight of Yamanobe-no-Michi. Here, you can immerse yourself in mythology and legend while enjoying views of Mount Nijo and the Aogaki mountain range. In spring, sakura blooms not only within the shrine precincts but also along the rice fields. Along the way, unmanned farm stands sell seasonal vegetables and fruits at great prices, adding to the charm of this hike. The walking distance is approximately 14 km on mostly flat terrain. With few ups and downs, it’s perfect for chatting along the way!