Best hotels and places to stay in Nara
Why visit?
Nara, Japan is a fascinating destination for tourists, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its iconic temples and shrines, Nara is a city that allows visitors to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese customs and traditions. From exploring ancient landmarks such as Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine to experiencing the serene atmosphere of Nara Park, this city offers a truly authentic Japanese experience. With a variety of ryokans, hotels, and hostels available, Nara provides a range of accommodation options for all types of travelers.
Where to stay?
Nara City Center: Located in the heart of the city, the Nara City Center offers convenient access to major attractions such as Nara Park and Todaiji Temple. This vibrant area is home to a wide range of accommodations, including ryokans and hotels. Here, visitors can enjoy the traditional Japanese hospitality and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Nara. Some notable options in this area include Noborioji Hotel and Hotel Nikko Nara.
Higashimuki Shopping Street: Situated just a short distance from Nara Park, the Higashimuki Shopping Street is a lively area packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. This bustling neighborhood offers a mix of modern conveniences and historical elements, making it an ideal place to stay for those looking for both convenience and charm. Hotels such as NARA Visitor Center & Inn and Nara Mahoroba Hotel can be found here, providing visitors with comfortable accommodations close to various attractions.
Kashihara: For those seeking a quieter and more tranquil stay, Kashihara is an excellent choice. This area is located outside of Nara City, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and lush nature. Kashihara offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center, with ryokans like Haseki-no-yado Uma-no-i and Ryokan Enraku providing traditional Japanese-style accommodation in a serene setting. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Kashihara Shrine and Kashihara Jingu Museum.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $100 to $150.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $150 to $250.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $250 to $400.
Best value for money:
Kotonoyado Musashino: This ryokan in Nara offers excellent value for money while providing an authentic Japanese experience. Located near Nara Park and other attractions, it features comfortable traditional-style rooms, friendly staff, and a peaceful ambiance. With affordable rates and convenient amenities, Kotonoyado Musashino is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a ryokan experience.
Guesthouse Nara Komachi: For those looking for a budget-friendly option in Nara, Guesthouse Nara Komachi is an ideal choice. This cozy hostel provides clean and comfortable dormitory-style accommodation, perfect for solo travelers or those on a tight budget. Its central location near Nara Station and major attractions makes it convenient for exploring the city without breaking the bank.
Comfort Hotel Nara: Situated in close proximity to Naras main train station and popular attractions, Comfort Hotel Nara offers affordable rates without compromising on comfort or convenience. The hotel features modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to public transportation, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable stay in Nara.
Best kid-friendly hotels:
Hotel Nikko Nara: This family-friendly hotel in Nara offers spacious rooms and a range of amenities to cater to families traveling with children. With its convenient location, children can easily explore nearby attractions such as Nara Park or enjoy the hotels indoor swimming pool. The friendly staff and comfortable accommodations make Hotel Nikko Nara a top choice for families.
NARA Visitor Center & Inn: Located in the Higashimuki Shopping Street area, NARA Visitor Center & Inn offers family rooms and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers with children. The inn provides bicycles for rent, allowing families to explore the citys sights together. Additionally, its proximity to amenities like restaurants and shops makes it a convenient choice for families.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
Noborioji Hotel: With its elegant ambiance and serene environment, Noborioji Hotel is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic escape in Nara. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with traditional Japanese aesthetics, ensuring a tranquil and intimate setting. Guests can enjoy soaking in their private open-air baths or indulging in a romantic dinner at the hotels restaurant.
Kasuga Hotel: Nestled in the vicinity of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kasuga Hotel exudes a romantic atmosphere with its traditional architecture and serene surroundings. The hotel features beautiful Japanese-style rooms and offers in-room dining options, allowing couples to enjoy a cozy and private dining experience. Stroll hand in hand through the nearby lantern-lit paths for a truly romantic experience.
Best for location:
Nara Hotel: Situated within Nara Park, Nara Hotel offers a prime location for exploring major attractions like Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The hotel itself is a historic landmark, blending Western and Japanese architectural styles. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the park and easily access popular sightseeing spots from this centrally located hotel.
Hotel Nikko Nara: Conveniently located near Nara Station, Hotel Nikko Nara provides easy access to public transportation, making it an excellent choice for exploring Nara and its surrounding areas. Its central location also offers proximity to shopping and dining options, ensuring guests have everything they need right at their doorstep.
Daiwa Royal Hotel: Situated in Nara City Center, Daiwa Royal Hotel provides a central location for accessing major attractions and transportation hubs. This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, attentive service, and easy access to nearby restaurants and shops. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.
Best for a short city break:
NARA Visitor Center & Inn: Located in the bustling Higashimuki Shopping Street area, NARA Visitor Center & Inn offers a convenient base for a short city break. Its central location ensures easy access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants, allowing guests to make the most of their time exploring Naras attractions.
Hotel Asyl Nara Annex: This hotel is situated near Nara Station, making it an ideal choice for a short city break. With its affordable rates, comfortable rooms, and proximity to transportation, Hotel Asyl Nara Annex offers a convenient stay for those looking to explore Nara efficiently within a limited timeframe.
