Complex of Manyo Culture

The Complex of Manyo Culture (万葉文化館, Manyō Bunkakan) is a large and rather elaborate museum dedicated to the famous Manyoshu poetry anthology, much of which was written during the Asuka Period (538-710). It is one of the most important texts in Japanese literature. Its poems reflect the pinnacle of the early Japanese aesthetic, and there are numerous references made within to the Asuka region, such as the Yamato mountains.

There are two main exhibition halls, the first of which displays a selection of modern paintings with the Manyoshu as their theme. The second is an elaborate interactive area that includes models of people and buildings, a theater and dramatic displays. There is also a special exhibition hall, reading room, museum shop and cafe. The complex was constructed on the former site of Japan's first known mint, whose foundations can be viewed by visitors and whose coins are put on display.