While it’s possible to enjoy Nara as a day trip from Kyoto, staying overnight in Nara brings you additional benefits. First, there are some places you should visit in Nara which are out of town, such as Yakushi-ji and Horyu-ji. Additional time allows you to explore these places without rushing. Second, many temples are illuminated at night, especially during the summer and autumn seasons. Third, there are many bars and Izakaya in Naramachi and they’re less touristy and definitely less expensive compared to Kyoto.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the best accommodations in Nara, depending on your travel style and budget. We’ll share our list of places to stay in Nara.
| 💡 Related Article; Ultimate Nara Day Trip From Kyoto: Plan Your Perfect Trip 💡 |
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Where to Stay near Nara Park
As many tourist attractions are within or around the Nara Park, staying near the part is a no-brainer especially for first-time visitors. You can enjoy an evening stroll in the park and take advantage of local restaurants.
High-End near Nara Park:
Fufu Nara – It’s located on the quieter south side of the park, behind the Ukimido Gazebo. About 15 minutes walk to the Nara National Museum. All 30 rooms are uniquely decorated and come with a private outdoor natural hot spring bath and furnished balcony. All rooms are spacious and elegantly designed. You can enjoy a beautiful Japanese garden and a restaurant specializing Teppanyaki where meat and vegetables are cooked on a flat iron griddle in front of you. Japanese style full-course breakfast is also served. A stylish bar and full service spa are available.
Shisui, A Luxury Collection Hotel – Right next to Yoshikien Garden, this is a perfect location to visit Todai-ji temple and Nara Park. Opened in the summer of 2023, Shisui beautifully incorporates the Japanese architecture and design in the property. The property was originally the Official Residence of Nara Prefectural Governor. You will see some furniture have been beautifully renovated. 23 rooms out of 43 have private natural hot spring bath. Some have outside bath. All rooms have floor to ceiling windows with a garden view. You can enjoy the local cuisine at the restaurant. There is also a sushi bar. Spa is also available.
ANDO HOTEL Nara Wakakusayama – This is slightly out of town, but still highly recommended. It is located on the slopes of Mt. Wakakusa, offering an amazing panoramic view of the entire city of Nara. Completely renovated in 2020, the hotel managed to bring modern amenities into traditional Japanese Inn. All 21 rooms have premium bedding with a touch of Japanese feel. Some have a private outdoor bath. You can also book one of four rooftop baths with a great view of the city. There are also two indoor public baths (sex-segregated). You can enjoy traditional Japanese meals at their terrace restaurant, while enjoying the great view especially in the evening. They offer free activities such as star viewing, hiking, birdwatching, as well as craft activities at a fee. The hotel offers free shuttle service to and from the train stations (Kintetsu and JR stations, 10-15 minutes to the hotel). Make sure to confirm in advance.
Mid-Range near Nara Park:
Asukasou – This traditional Ryokan is situated to the south of Kofuku-ji temple. If you want to experience the traditional Japanese hospitality, this is a great place. You’ll be sleeping on the tatami mat (some have beds too), sitting on the floor, and wearing Yukata (casual lightweight kimono). The traditional Japanese dinner will be served in your room. You can also enjoy a great view of five-storied pagoda from your room or even while you relax in a bath. On the rooftop terrace, there are public baths (sex-segregated) and private bath you can book. If you’re not sure about outside bathing experience, there are also indoor baths. This is a very family-friendly ryokan with some family rooms.
Kasuga Hotel – This is alo a traditional Ryokan close to Kofuku-ji temple, but closer to Kintetsu Nara station. There are traditional Japanese style rooms as well as western style rooms (bed and wooden floor). Some rooms come with an outdoor bath or terrace. The restaurant offers Japanese style breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also enjoy a meal in a private room. or in your own room. Two outdoor bath and one indoor bath overlooking a garden. Kintetsu Nara station is a two minutes walk and Higashimuki Shopping Street is also a few minutes walk.
Budget near Nara Park:
An-Grande Hotel Nara – A clean stylish hotel near Kofuku-ji temple. Western style rooms are well designed with modern feel. Some have the mountain or the park view. The restaurant offers Japanese as well as international cuisine. No public bath. You can enjoy drinks at the terrace.
Nara Hotel – The Nara Hotel, established in 1909, is a historic and prestigious establishment in Nara. Known for its blend of traditional Japanese and Western design, the hotel features serene gardens and offers comfortable accommodations and dining options. Located behind Kofuku-ji, this historic hotel offers unique elegance of the Taisho era style. The hotel facility is impressive, which includes a church, a garden originally built in 1087, a French restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, and the bar. The hotel boasts a grand atmosphere, reminiscent of a museum, with its historic architecture and elegant design. It’s a steal.
Where to Stay in Naramachi
Naramachi is a historic district in Nara, known for its well-preserved Machiya houses from the Edo period. These traditional wooden townhouses reflect the city’s merchant culture. Naramachi features narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, and museums, offering visitors a unique experience.
Mid-Range in Naramachi:
Nipponia Hotel Nara Naramachi – This is a renovated machiya house offering guests a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese living. All eight room are uniquely decorated while preserving Machiya architecture. Some room have tatami floor or beds, overlooking the garden. The restaurant used to be a sake brewery and offers French cuisine with Japanese twist. They have variety of sake for you to try. You can also join a sake brewery tour at a small fee, where you can learn about the various steps involved in sake production.
Budget in Naramachi:
Nara Ryokan – This is also a traditional ryokan with full of antiques and the Showa (1920-1980s) atmosphere. The rooms may be basic, but wifi is available and bathrooms have been recently renovated. You can also reserve a public onsen bath. There is also a laundry room, a restaurant, and a garden. You can also learn how to make sushi! It’s a good choice if you’re on budget and want to experience nostalgic Nara.
Guesthouse Narakomachi – A guest house close to JR Nara station, but easy access to Naramachi. Compact but clean rooms with beds. Some quadruple rooms with bunk beds which are great for family or friends. They have a communal kitchen if you’d like to cook. Bike rental is also available. Great place to meet fellow travellers.