Search the best hotels in Nara
About Nara
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.
The Best Places to Stay in Nara
For Traditional Charm
- Kankaso Ryokan promises an intimate, low-key stay. The ryokan's 10 rooms are nestled amidst pretty Japanese gardens, and interiors feature tatami matting and paper screens. Regional dishes can be savoured in the guest rooms or the shared dining area. A quiet choice, right on the edge of Nara Park.
- Nara Kasuga Hotel is a classic ryokan with 32 rooms, the best of which have big baths and massage chairs. Expect Japanese-style interiors, excellent kaiseki cuisine, and onsens for long soaks.
- Hakushikaso offers 26 traditional rooms with paper shutters, low-level dining tables and tatami matting. The 2,000-year-old cypress wood bath is perfect for unwinding after exploring the city. A relaxed choice for those eager to experience a ryokan stay.
For Families
- Asukasou has all the hallmarks of a classic ryokan, with onsens, minimalist Japanese-style rooms and a sense of tranquility. Larger rooms with extra beds make it a great choice for families or groups, who will also enjoy the karaoke room!
For Luxury
- Nara Hotel is a local landmark, and has hosted heads of state and celebrities since the early 20th Century. Opened in 1909, the hotel boasts elegant rooms with high ceilings, antique furnishings and fireplaces. There are two atmospheric onsite restaurants and a glamorous bar. One for history buffs.
- Noborioji Hotel is a luxurious gem next to Nara Park. Minimalist rooms channel contemporary cool, and floor-to-ceiling windows reveal views of the park. Expect delectable French fare at Le Bois, the hotel's gourmet restaurant. For romantic couples and foodies.
FOR AN APARTMENT or Holiday Villa
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
Travel Information
- The closest large airport is Osaka's Kansai International Airport, an hour's drive from Nara. Alternatively, the journey from Kyoto takes less than an hour by car or train.
- The centre of Nara is best navigated by public transport, but you may want to drive if you're exploring beyond the city itself. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 20 and 30°C degrees. Winters are cold and less appealing for exploring; the spring cherry blossom in Nara Park is magical.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Osaka.
- Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Weather
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Best Hotels in Nara
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Iroha Grand Hotel Nara 143 rooms from £59
Local exploring - Close to cultural highlights. Nara Park, Kofukuji Temple, Todaiji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine are all within walking distanceShort break - The hotel is a short walk from Kintetsu Nara Station so it's ideal for a sightseeing tripSights nearby - It's perfectly situated for exploring the Naramachi area where traditional residential buildings and warehouses are preservedGreat walks - Nara Park is ideal for a walk with 660 hectares to explore including heritage treasures and wild roaming deerA 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. See More
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Hotel An-Grande Nara 38 rooms from £73
Local exploring - A great spot to explore historical and cultural heritage sites, such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji TempleShort break - It's just a few minutes' walk from Kintetsu Nara Station so perfectly located for a sightseeing tripViews - The Panorama View Superior Twin Room looks out to Wakakusayama and Nara ParkGreat walks - Enjoy a stroll through Manyo Botanical Garden and Sarusawa Pond ParkAn 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. See More
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Asukasou Nara 31 rooms from £105
Sights nearby - The Kofukuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 3 minutes' walk awayLocal exploring - A centrally located property with easy access to historic temples and museumsHotel Entertainment - The hotel's karaoke room is perfect for an evening of singing with friendsFamilies - Large rooms with space for extra beds are ideal for family tripsA 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. See More
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Miroku Nara by The Share Hotels Nara 44 rooms from £93
Total relaxation - There's a really relaxed vibe with serene rooms, calming views and the chance to watch deer from the terraceFamilies - Kids will love the Moderate Loft Room with its fun ladder up to the raised sleeping areaGreat walks - Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Manyo Botanical Garden, Yoshikien Garden and Sarusawa Pond ParkSights nearby - Kofuku-ji Temple and Todaiji Temple are within walking distanceA 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. See More
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Kankaso Ryokan Nara (Kasuga-machi) 10 rooms from £141
Great walks - Step outside to explore Nara Park, which spans over 500 hectares and is home to interesting wildlifeLocal exploring - Situated close to Nara Park and with many of the city's main attractions within walking distanceMuseums - Visit the Nara National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artefactsHideaway - A tranquil, traditional choice for an intimate stay, with a lovely Japanese gardenA 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. See More
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Nara Hotel Nara 132 rooms from £145
Cycling - Hope aboard one of the hotel's electric bikes to cycle up the surrounding hills for striking views, or into town to exploreGreat walks - Strolls through Isuien Garden or Nara Park - with its 1700 cherry trees - come highly recommendedCity Style - A historic hotel, with a timeless sense of style; the perfect base for discovering NaraBusiness meetings - Meeting spaces make this an imposing choice for a business trip or formal eventA 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. See More
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Nara Kasuga Hotel Nara 32 rooms from £182
Total relaxation - Big baths and massage chairs in the larger rooms, plus public baths in shared areas, are ideal for unwindingFamilies - Spacious Western or Japanese rooms are well-suited to families or groups of friends travelling togetherCycling - Take a guided bike tour of Nara and the surrounding hills for a sense of the area's rich historyTrekking - Climb Mt. Wakakusa for impressive city and temple rooftop viewsA 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. See More
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Hakushikaso Nara 26 rooms from £190
Local exploring - Overlooking Nara Park, this is a great spot fo rthose looking to discover the city on foot - and to admire the spring blossomGreat walks - Guided tours of the city centre are brilliant for understanding Nara's historic importanceMuseums - The imposing Nara National Museum is well worth visitingTotal relaxation - The 2000-year-old cypress wood bath is seriously specialA 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. See More
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Ando Hotel Nara 21 rooms from £155
Total relaxation - Although the hotel is close to the city you'll never have to leave if you just want to chill out and soak up those amazing viewsRomantic Break - What could be more romantic than sumptuous suites, a private outdoor bath, and stargazing from the rooftop terrace?Views - Panoramic views of Nara Park, Todaiji Temple and Nara CityGreat walks - A beautiful setting, surrounded by the serenity of Mt. Wakakusayama where you can enjoy peaceful walksIt'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. See More
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Hotel Setre Naramichi Nara Perfecture 32 rooms from £226
Romantic Break - Beautiful, luxurious rooms in both Japanese and Western style, plus superb food and a relaxing atmosphereLocal exploring - The hotel is in a great location, a stone's throw from Nara's national park and main streetGreat walks - Nara Park is home to more than 1200 deer. Take photos of them eating rice crackers and basking in sunlight around the templeRestaurant - The excellent restaurant serves French fine dining cuisine made with the best local produceElegant 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. See More
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Noborioji Hotel Nara 15 rooms from £246
Museums - The Nara National Museum is one of the city's top cultural sites, along with its many ancient templesCity Style - A chic property offering minimalist interiors and fantastic food: a dream city stayCycling - Discovering the city on the hotel's bikes is a wonderful part of any tripFoodies - Expect delicious gourmet French cuisine in the elegant Le Bois restaurantA 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. See More
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Kotonoyado Musashino Nara 12 rooms from £317
Local exploring - Ideally situated close to many of Nara's top attractions, such as the shrine Kasuga Taisha which is a 6 minute walk awayGreat walks - The hotel is located in Nara Park, over 1600 acres of parkland home to free roaming deer with paths aplentyTotal relaxation - Enjoy a soothing soak in the communal hot spring bath, or choose a room with private open air bathShort break - The train station is a 5 minute drive from the hotel, as well as 3 airports approximately an hour's drive awayA 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. See More
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Nipponia Hotel Nara Naramachi Nara 8 rooms from £278
Romantic Break - With only 8 rooms, this ryokan offers an intimate stay in rooms that reflect the building's history but with modern comfortsLocal exploring - The perfect location within walking distance of many major shrines and templesSights nearby - It's close to Naramachi Townhouse of Traditional Lifestyle which is an exact replica of a wonderful old townhouseGreat walks - Take a stroll through nearby Nara Park and Sarusawa Pond ParkSet 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. See More
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Tsukihitei Nara 3 rooms from £478
Total relaxation - Set in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoy listening to the birds and the sound of the river in a quiet and secluded settingGroups - There are only three suites available so this ryokan is perfect for small groups wanting an intimate gatheringLocal exploring - The property is close to popular sightseeing destinations such as Nara Park and Todai-ji TempleGreat walks - Walk to the top of Mt. Wakakusa and be rewarded with breathtaking viewsSet 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. See More
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Fufu Nara 30 rooms from £521
Romantic Break - The luxurious suites boast relaxed spaces, private terraces and organic toiletries, in an intimate settingTotal relaxation - This hotel wraps you in a hug with its lush grounds, private baths and rocking chairs on the terraceSights nearby - Enjoy the beauty of Nara’s nature. Head to Mount Wakakusa and take in the view from the summitGreat walks - Experience Takisaka-no-Michi path, a mountain trail once walked by those training as samuraiA 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. See More