kyoto__diaries — Nara Park

Asuka and Fujiwara properties in Nara are currently aiming for World Heritage Status. Join Photography Masterclass with Photographer Naoki Ishikawa to explore Asuka-Fujiwara! Mr Naoki Ishikawa is a Japanese photographer with many awards. His works like POLAR and CORONA explore the connections between people and places. 📷 In this masterclass, we explored 4 main ancient sites: 📍Sakafuneishi Ritual Site A stone structure carved with grooves and water basins, believed to have been used for rituals involving spring water during the reign of Empress Saimei. 📍Asuka Palace Site The layered palace ruins here show how Asuka’s imperial residences evolved from moving locations to a permanent capital. 📍Asuka Pond Garden Site Japan’s oldest water feature garden, with ponds, islands, and stone fountains influenced by early East Asian designs. 📍Asuka-dera Temple Site Japan’s first Buddhist temple with vermilion pillars and tiled roof. Home to the 1,400-year-old Asuka Daibutsu statue. The Asuka-Fujiwara Visit Campaign lasts until March 13, 2026. Post your pictures using #asukafujiwaraphoto, and show Nara Prefecture Complex of Man’yo Culture to receive postcards and snacks! P R #asukafujiwaraphoto #japan #nara #naokiishikawa #asuka