@ OKUYAMATO
“Oku-Yamato” in Nara Prefecture
Oku-Yamato is a region not officially marked on maps. It refers to the 19 cities and towns in the eastern and southern parts of Nara Prefecture. The area consists of mountainous regions in the south, relatively flat terrains in the central and southern parts, and a plateau in the east, with towns and villages spread across a wide area. Even today, people here live their lives in harmony with the deep history, culture, beliefs, and nature nurtured in each area.
About Nara Okuyamato
In the southern mountainous region of Oku-Yamato lies the deep mountains of Yoshino, covering about two-thirds of Nara Prefecture’s land area. This region has a long history as a sacred site of Shugendo and is registered as a World Heritage Site under ‘Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.’ The area is characterized by rugged rocky peaks, deep valleys, rapid streams, continuous waterfalls, and ancient trees, some over 400 years old, preserving untouched nature. It is also one of the country’s most famous places for cherry blossoms.
In the eastern region, there is a gentle highland area known as the ‘Yamato Plateau.’ The highland area, being at a higher elevation, has a cooler climate which is conducive to growing highland vegetables and tea. The region is also known for its livestock industry, contributing to the pastoral and open landscape unique to the highlands.
History of Okuyamato
The History of Okuyamato Began with Reverence for Nature
Nature of Okuyamato
Nature of Okuyamato with mountains, clear streams and man-made forests
Culture of Okuyamato
The Culture of Okuyamato, Born from Living with the Mountains