Station Asuka

Discover the Timeless Charm of Ancient Japan at Its Gateway

Nestled just steps from Kinokuniya Asuka Station on National Route 169, Asuka roadside station serves as the welcoming entrance to one of Japan’s most historic regions. This vibrant hub blends ancient heritage with modern charm, offering travelers a seamless gateway to the wonders of Asuka Village. At its heart is the Asuka Bito no Yakata, a comprehensive visitor center that provides expert guidance on local attractions, accommodations, dining, and transportation—including free passes for the Kame Bus, rental bikes, and walking routes.

Beyond its role as a travel resource, Asuka roadside station shines through its vibrant farm-to-table market, Asuka Yume Hanzaijo. Here, farmers bring freshly harvested seasonal produce daily, including the famed Asuka Ruby strawberries—celebrated for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. These prized berries inspire everything from gourmet sweets to a rich, signature soft-serve that captures the essence of the region. With a curated selection of local specialties—from handcrafted tofu to naturally brewed soy sauce—this roadside station is a celebration of Asuka’s enduring agricultural legacy and cultural depth.

Visit Asuka roadside station to experience the only place where you can taste Asuka Ruby, the famed "red gem" strawberry of Nara Prefecture, freshly picked and served as a signature soft cream that captures its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Adjacent to the station, the Asuka Dream Market offers farm-to-table produce, including handmade tofu and naturally brewed soy sauce from local producers—only found here.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the "Asuka Dream Sales" stand by 9:00 AM on weekdays to secure the day’s first harvest of Asuka Ruby strawberries, which are displayed and sold as soon as farmers arrive with fresh-picked fruit.

• Hidden Gems: At the "Asuka Dream Sales" stand, look for the handcrafted tofu made daily by a local soy sauce brewery in the village—available only during the morning hours and often sold out by 12:30 PM.

• Weekend Special: On Saturdays and Sundays, visit the "Asuka Bitonoyakata" (Asuka Bito no Yakata) building between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to meet the volunteer tourism guides from the Asuka Tourism Association who provide free historical insights and storytelling about ancient burial mounds.

• Must-Try Food: Order the Asuka Ruby soft cream at the roadside station’s snack counter—it’s made using only peak-season strawberries and offers a distinct balance of sweetness and tartness that reflects the fruit’s unique flavor profile.

• Best Time to Buy Local Produce: Head to the "Asuka Dream Sales" stand between 9:15 AM and 9:45 AM on weekdays to get the freshest selection of morning-harvested vegetables, as the produce is rotated and sold in batches throughout the day.

• Smart Souvenir Choice: Purchase the "Koto-ka" and "Nana-ka" brand strawberries—both are certified premium strawberries from Nara Prefecture—only available at the roadside station from mid-November to late May, and they’re sold in limited quantities.

• Access Tip: Use the parking lot on the west side of the main road (near the Asuka Dream Sales stand) when visiting on weekends, as it provides direct access to the "Asuka Dream Sales" stand and the main entrance to the "Asuka Bito no Yakata" building.

Spring (March–May): Fresh asparagus and early-season strawberries, including the prized Asuka Ruby, peak in availability from April to May.

Summer (June–August): Late-season Asuka Ruby strawberries and locally grown tomatoes are at their best, with roadside sales continuing through August.

Autumn (September–November): Harvest season for autumn vegetables and the start of the Asuka Ruby strawberry sales in late October.

Winter (December–February): Limited fresh produce, but seasonal specialties like Asuka Ruby soft cream remain available year-round.