Researchers Uncover Layout of 7th-Century Imperial Ritual Site in Asuka

Nov 06, 2025 | News On Japan

NARA - Archaeologists have uncovered new details about the remains of an ancient building in Nara Prefecture’s Asuka area, believed to have been used by emperors for imperial ceremonies more than 1,300 years ago.

The latest excavation, conducted since July at the Asuka Palace ruins in the village of Asuka, revealed the structure’s size and internal layout for the first time.

According to the Nara Prefectural Kashihara Archaeological Institute, the building measured about 20 meters from east to west and 11 meters from north to south, with a three-meter-wide passageway connecting it to the emperor’s residential quarters. Inside, the floor was carefully laid with stones and gravel, a design considered to represent the highest level of architectural refinement for political buildings of the era.

Archaeologist Shogo Kita of the Kashihara Archaeological Institute said, “It’s a place where figures once known only from the Chronicles of Japan feel vividly real. From the perspective of studying ancient history, it’s an extremely fascinating site.”

The excavation site will be open to the public on November 8th and 9th.

Source: YOMIURI

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