Second only to Kyoto when it comes to sites of incredible historic and cultural beauty, Nara was Japan's very first capital city. Built around a 500+ hectare park studded with ancient temples and ruins, this fascinating destination dates back 1300 years. Visitors will find a good selection of traditional and contemporary accommodation options, fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Our list of the best places to stay in Nara includes classic ryokans as well as slick city hotels, clustered close to the impressive Nara Park.
The park is endlessly intriguing. Take guided tours of the Todai-ji Temple — home to the largest Buddha in Japan — or of Kofuku-ji Temple and the Kasuga Grand Shrine, characterised by thousands of carved stone lanterns. The Nara National Museum is filled with heritage artefacts, many of which reflect the area’s long Buddhist history. You’ll also find herds of wild deer roaming the park, which is wonderful for long strolls. Come during the spring to see the 1700 or so cherry trees in bloom: magic.
Other highlights include the Isuien Gardens, Mt Wakakusa, and the Naramachi area. Relaxed ambles, active cycle rides or challenging treks await. Retreat to the best places to stay in Nara for restorative onsen baths, massages and kaiseki cuisine.
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Nara (Nara)
A comfortable hotel in downtown Nara. The fuss-free, minimalist rooms are decorated in warm, neutral tones. There's a spacious restaurant serving Japanese seasonal fare, plus a lounge for relaxing. A good choice for a reasonably-priced stay right in the heart of things and close to public transport.
Nara (Nara)
An elegant hotel in downtown Nara. Warmly-decorated rooms with snug soft furnishings create a comfortable and homely feel. There's a restaurant serving local fare, an intimate bar, a relaxing library/lounge, plus a stylish terrace. A good choice for a calming stay close to the city attractions.
Nara
A chic hotel located in the heart of Nara. Contemporary rooms are Japanese in design with paper screens, floor level dining room tables and large windows letting in plenty of light. A selection of onsens provide quiet spots for complete relaxation. The perfect base for city exploring.
Nara (Nara)
A stylish hotel in the Naramachi district. Graceful, light and airy rooms provide relaxing spaces, some with magical mountain views. There's a bold use of wood with a unique lounge featuring Nara materials such as Yoshino cedar and Asuka stone, plus a cool cafe bar. A chic city stay.
Nara (Kasuga-machi)
A traditional ryokan nestled amidst pretty gardens, adjacent to the impressive Nara Park. Japanese-style rooms are light and airy with tatami mats, paper screens & lovely views. Regional meals are served in the guest rooms or the dining area. Atmospheric & well-located for seeing the historic city.
Nara
A historic property featuring classic Japanese architecture. Elegant rooms boast high beamed ceilings, antique furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows and fireplaces. Playing host to two elegant restaurants and a glamorous bar, this is an atmospheric landmark hotel, ideal for exploring the ancient city.
Nara
A traditional property next to Nara Park & the Kofuku-ji Temple. Japanese-style rooms feature tatami mats and low-level dining tables; the best have baths & massage chairs. Western rooms are also available. A number of onsens provide tranquil spots for unwinding before tucking into kaiseki cuisine.
Nara
A traditional Japanese ryokan next to the picturesque Nara Park. Traditional rooms feature paper shutters enclosing quiet alcoves, low-level dining tables and tatami mats. A 2000-year-old cypress wood bath provides the perfect spot to relax after cycling around the city on the hotel's bikes.
Nara (Nara)
It's all about the views at this chic ryokan on a hillside near Nara Park. Elegant, spacious rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows framing the lush landscape beyond. There are 4 open-air baths, a restaurant serving Japanese cuisine with a French twist, plus a rooftop terrace. A picture perfect stay.
Nara (Nara Perfecture)
Elegant hotel overlooking Sarusawa Lake. Rooms are a magical mix of Western and Japanese style with warm wood throughout. Inviting communal areas have a laidback vibe, there's a restaurant for superb dining, while outside the 'bioyard' is home to pet chickens. A truly zen stay.
Nara
A luxury property nestled in a quiet spot next to Nara Park. Chic rooms ooze minimalist, contemporary cool, with big beds and armchairs clad in soft greys and park-facing views. The elegant French restaurant and atmospheric bar invite couples to savour time together in style. Fabulous.
Nara
A charming Edo-period ryokan located within Nara Park. Twelve traditional rooms feature Japanese style furnishings and architecture; some with balcony and cypress wood tub. Communal baths and superb local haute cuisine complete the picture. A fantastic base for local exploring.
Nara (Nara)
Set in a former sake brewery and an old-world house, this elegant ryokan oozes character. Spacious rooms in soft, neutral tones feature high ceilings and exposed beams. There's a restaurant serving French-inspired cuisine and high-end sake. A perfect place to enjoy a traditional Japanese experience.
Nara (Nara)
Set within the Kasugayama Primeval Forest, this traditional ryokan is a chance to step back in time. The three elegant rooms feature Japanese-style decor with soaking tubs & garden views; seasonal meals are prepared by the Japanese chef in private rooms. A peaceful stay in a woodland wonderland.
Nara (Nara)
A small hot spring hotel in the grounds of Nara Park. Elegant, spacious rooms ooze sophistication; all boast private open-air baths with natural hot springs. There's a sleek cocktail bar and an intimate restaurant where teppanyaki is made at the counter. A plush city escape in a tranquil setting.
