#Japan #Kashihara #Grand Mercure #World Heritage #Asuka-Fujiwara

Celebrating Asuka-Fujiwara's World Heritage Registration

Asuka-Fujiwara, a site that embodies the beginnings of Japanese history, has drawn significant attention recently due to its recognition as a World Heritage Site. To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara is thrilled to announce the launch of special buffet meals and accommodation packages that honor the vibrant culinary traditions from the Asuka period. Positioned in Nara Prefecture’s Kashihara City, this all-inclusive hotel has curated a unique experience for guests, combining delightful dining with meaningful historical exploration.

Background of the Initiative

The historical significance of Asuka-Fujiwara cannot be understated. Many might recognize names of ancient burial mounds and palace ruins from their school textbooks but may feel uncertain about where to visit in the area. This historical region is not only where Japan's formation began but also home to several ancient structures that breathe life into over 1300 years of memories, such as the Ishibutai Tomb and Asuka-dera Temple.

The Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara aims to enhance the visitor experience by offering visitors a chance to not only see but truly feel the culture, food, and way of life of the local area. By using the hotel as a base, guests can easily access and appreciate the rich history surrounding the Asuka-Fujiwara area.

Special Buffet Inspired by Asuka Period Cuisine

To highlight the region’s historical food culture, the hotel will feature a commemorative buffet menu inspired by the cuisines of the Asuka period. This special dining experience will allow guests to savor history through food during breakfast and dinner.

Breakfast Buffet Menu

• - Chagayu: A light and soothing tea porridge that has supported the mornings of the Nara people for over 1200 years, featuring a delicate balance of flavor from roasted tea.
• - Miwa Somen: Originating from Miwa in Sakurai City, this somen is known for its smooth texture—perfectly complemented with your choice of toppings.
• - Asuka Stew: This unique dish draws inspiration from food culture introduced through trade with Tang Dynasty China, combining milk, miso, and broth for a comforting flavor enriched with fresh vegetables and mushrooms.

Dinner Buffet Menu

• - Nara Ancient Rice and Spelt Salad: A new addition featuring ancient rice known for its delightful texture, served with spelt wheat that evokes the historical exchanges of the past.
• - Yamato Pork Asuka White Keema: Using locally-sourced Yamato pork with a creamy curry interpretation inspired by Asuka stew, it perfectly balances rich flavors with a hint of spices.
• - Ancient Rice Noodles: Relax and rejuvenate with these noodles offering delicious warmth in a fragrant broth.
• - Yamato Tea Croquettes: Potatoes mixed with the local Yamato tea creates a beautifully green croquette with a sweet aroma.
• - Kaki no Ha Sushi: Nara’s tradition of using persimmon leaves to wrap vinegared rice and fish preserves freshness while connecting the mountains of Asuka with the distant sea.
• - Dry-Aged Sea Bream with Yamatomiso: This dish conveys an understanding of ancient preservation techniques merged with herbal medicine, delivering a taste of royal cuisine.

Buffet Overview

• - Accommodation Dates: July 27, 2026 - November 30, 2026
• - Dining Times: Breakfast from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM; Dinner from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
• - Location: Le Sensoriel Buffet Restaurant, first floor
• - Cost: Included in all-inclusive plans (excluding room-only options)

Commemorative Accommodation Package

In addition to the special buffet, guests can also enjoy a commemorative accommodation plan, providing a convenient means to explore local attractions with ease. The plan includes a special mini lamp inspired by the Ishibutai Tomb and features a series of relaxing amenities and activities across lounge, hot spring reservations, plus all meals included.

Recommended Model Course by Hotel Staff

The hotel staff has also created a recommended model course for visitors, taking them seamlessly from the hotel to key historical landmarks: Ishibutai Tomb, Asuka Palace Ruins, Sakafune Stone Remains, and Taka Matsuzuka Tomb. This routing not only allows history enthusiasts to grasp the significance of each site but also immerses them in a narrative of how life was in ancient Asuka.

The Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara welcomes all visitors to experience this unique blend of history, culture, and exceptional culinary delights.

For bookings and further details, please visit the official website.