Nara Hotel

Beautiful location, but a bit of a walk to other main parts of town. Staff were remarkably friendly and helpful. Interesting to stay somewhere with some history too! We found that it was close to a great hike along a creek up to an ancient Buddha cave, so if a little hiking is your goal, this hotel is the perfect place!

We had an unforgettable stay at the Nara Hotel. But what made our experience truly extraordinary was the concierge, Mr. Hatanaka. From the moment we arrived, he went above and beyond in every way. He not only helped us with directions and bookings, but also personally recommended restaurants that were absolute gems and places we would have never discovered on our own. His attention to detail, care and professionalism made us feel so welcome. He made mine, my husbands and my daughters stay exceptional and we really hope that management recognized what a treasure they have in him.

The rooms are amazing. Fantastic price. Can't be beaten in value and quality. Also very big. The location is prime, sitting atop a beautiful hill. Sunsets are nothing less than stunning here. They carried our luggage all over the place, and they had a shuttle bus to and from the station. It was truly an amazing experience. If you book right, you can pay less than a standard APA room. Next time I want to stay a whole week! Bravo to this monument and the crew that operates it 👏

This is a Classical European style Japanese hotel more than 100 yrs. Old which gives a definite feeling of aristocracy. And rightly so. The Royal family of Japan including the Emperor and the Empress stay here during visit to Nara. As also did the great scientist Einstein. There are photographs of many well known personalities in their lounge to view. The entrance decorations furniture and the construction of solid wood give a feeling of antiquity. Very well located in close proximity of Todai-ji temple and Nara park it is easily approachable from the railway station. Rooms are large with all modern facilities. There are both European and Japanese restaurants. The food and service in the main restaurant is a memorable experience. The variety and presentation is excellent. Crockery and cutlery beautiful. Some silverware bear markings of being more than 75 rears old. The staff very polite and helpful. Overall an awesome feeling.

When I first arrived at Nara Hotel, I was quite upset due to a few initial concerns. However, the hotel manager addressed them promptly and professionally, which made a big difference to my stay. I ended up having a really great time — the staff are very attentive and genuinely kind.
Although language can be a bit of a barrier at times, their warmth always shines through. One of the staff managers Onen was especially lovely, personally showing me to my room and explaining the rich history of the hotel. A particularly sweet memory I’ll take with me is of the hotel shuttle driver offering me some sweets as I was coughing on my way to the station. That simple gesture summed up the warmth of the place.

A historic hotel with over 100 years of rich heritage! Many great and famous guests, including Japanese royals, have stayed here, and the corridors are lined with photos showcasing its distinguished visitors.
As expected from an old hotel, the interior has a vintage feel, and while the rooms show their age, they are well-equipped with everything you need. Service is standard—nothing exceptional, but sufficient.
The location is convenient, less than a 20-minute walk to Nara Station. The walk itself is enjoyable, with plenty of interesting shops, cafés, and restaurants along the way. A great stay for those who appreciate history and charm!

A beautiful, wooden, historic hotel in pristine condition! The staff is wonderful and gives a very high level of service. Several emperor's and high ranking diplomats have stayed here. Gorgeous scenery and located in an area walkable to multiple restaurants and sights. Rooms are spacious and immaculately decorated. They have ebikes for rent as well. We will be back again!

Super friendly helpful staff.
Complimentary shuttle bus to/from the x2 train stations, which runs on a set schedule. No need to book.
Great location in walking distance to Nara Park with all its sights.
It's a historic hotel. We stayed in the main building which is old, with old fittings, antique furnishings, a lot of wood and high ceilings.
The bedroom was warm and the beds were European style & comfortable. The bathroom (with roll top claw foot bath) had been recently re-fitted and had plenty of complimentary toiletries.
Breakfast was a very formal almost silver service affair… choice of American style (with eggs, bacon, juice, pancakes or pastries, fruit and yoghurt), OR the usual Japanese (fish frenzy).
A happy stay.

We didn't stay here but had the set tea which consisted of coffee or tea and Danish pastries. Pastries were good as was service and the price reasonable. Beautiful turn of 20th century hotel with view of a historical garden.

The staff is so attentive and the grounds are breathtaking. We had a bit of trouble with checking in and having to come back because it was busy but overall it's a beautiful and old hotel with so much charm. It is a short walk to the park and temple.

It has rich history and it’s quite unique. I like the room design, from different room windows you can enjoy different views. Room is very clean and quiet, dinner at the restaurant is enjoyable.

Had one night only and the hotel was great. It is a huge building — old and new part. We stayed in the new that was 40 years old. So all is a bit dated but great big room, great location to all of Nara and great service from everyone.
Free shuttle to train-station was great.

In late May 2024, I stayed at the main building of the Nara Hotel. Nara Hotel opened in 1909 at the end of the Meiji era as a guest facility to accommodate the surge of foreign visitors after the Russo-Japanese War. The main building, designed by Kingo Tatsuno, famous for designing the main building of the Bank of Japan, is an eclectic mix of Japanese and Western styles, and it still retains the atmosphere of classic Western hotels. The Western cuisine in the main dining room was thoroughly enjoyable in a serene atmosphere. Historically, the Nara Hotel has been primarily operated by the government, transitioning through the Ministry of Railways and Japan National Railways, and is currently operated by JR West. The facilities and staff provide exceptionally sophisticated service, allowing me to relax comfortably after a long day of sightseeing.

Being able to rent the ebikes was the highlight of our Nara trip.
The rooms were so unique and comfortable.
The hotel itself was gorgeous and well kept.
The staff were beyond helpful.
The shuttle service was awesome to have after checkout too.

Lives up to the reputation. Beautifully antique hotel meticulously up-kept to carry its history gracefully. The bar is stunning and brings you back in time. $8 taxi from train station and you are walking distance to the temples and shrines.

Beautiful hotel with a rich history. Staff was extremely nice and helpful. Dinner in the Japanese restaurant was a unique and awesome experience. My Finance had a food allergy and they accommodated her needs. Definitely make sure you go to the bar and enjoy the view.

Currently, I am staying in Nara Hotel! Very historical hotel and really traditional. Classic, beautiful, and gorgeous. Staff are truly working hard, kind, and nice. Many customers and they seem happy to be here in this hotel. Most of them seem like Japanese. I saw many pictures on the walls that many famous people who have been here before. The room is extremely big but quiet. The room has an amazing balcony with awesome views. I can say that it is one of the topest hotels in Japan. Price is reasonable but very luxurious.