Nara Hotels

Top reasons to visit Nara

• Historic Temples: Visit iconic temples like Todai-ji, home to a giant Buddha statue, showcasing Nara's rich cultural heritage.
• Stunning Nara Park: Experience the tranquillity of Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among lush landscapes.
• Vibrant Shopping Areas: Explore charming local shops and markets, offering unique souvenirs and traditional crafts.
• Local Cuisine: Savor delicious local dishes in quaint restaurants, providing a taste of Nara's culinary delights.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from hotels to ryokans, catering to various preferences.

Find great hotels near Nara

Explore a diverse range of accommodation options in Nara, Nara Prefecture, where you'll find hotels and hostels catering to various preferences. Whether you're seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, a city-themed escape, or a relaxing hot spring experience, Nara has something for everyone. Discover the best hotels, including Hotel Nikko Nara, ensuring a memorable stay in this historic city.

• Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba: This 3.5-star hotel is celebrated for its comfortable atmosphere and convenient location, situated approximately 27km from Nara. Guests appreciate its well-appointed rooms, featuring modern amenities like a flatscreen TV and satellite channels. Dining options include an onsite restaurant and buffet breakfast, catering to various tastes. With nearby entertainment and shopping districts, as well as metro access, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the vibrant Osaka area while providing a tranquil retreat after a day of sightseeing.
• Namba Oriental Hotel: Known for its welcoming ambience, this 3.5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, reflecting its high-quality service and comfort. Located 27km from Nara, it features various dining options, including a daily breakfast and onsite restaurant. The hotel is also in proximity to a fitness facility, ensuring that guests can maintain their exercise routines during their stay. With easy access to the city centre and nearby metro stations, it offers the perfect blend of convenience and relaxation for travellers seeking to explore the lively area.
• APA Hotel Namba Ekihigashi: This 3-star hotel combines affordability with comfort, boasting a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Situated around 27km from Nara, it features a selection of dining options, including local restaurants and buffet breakfast. The modern rooms come equipped with LCD TVs and cable channels, providing entertainment for guests. Its strategic location near the city centre and shopping districts makes it an ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in the bustling vibe of Osaka while enjoying a restful stay.

Where to stay in and around Nara

Nara offers a captivating blend of culture and history, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the enchanting Nara City, where ancient temples like Todai-ji await, along with vibrant shopping experiences. Don't miss the serene atmosphere of Kashihara City, known for its hidden gems. Whether you're seeking a temple stay or a taste of local life, Nara promises a memorable adventure that combines urban charm with tranquil escapes.

• Naramachi: Nestled in the heart of Nara, Naramachi is a charming neighbourhood that offers a delightful blend of historical allure and modern convenience. Known for its traditional wooden merchant houses, the area is a testament to Nara's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore an array of shopping areas, outdoor spaces, and local temples, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The vibrant urban park nearby provides a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and picnics, especially during the peak seasons of April and October to November when the landscape is painted with seasonal beauty.
• Noboriōji: A quaint village situated within Nara Prefecture, Noboriōji is a hidden gem that attracts tourists seeking a tranquil escape. The village offers a unique experience with its local shopping centre and inviting spa facilities, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Families and outdoor lovers will appreciate the nearby urban parks and the art museum that showcases local talent. Like Naramachi, visitor numbers peak in the spring and autumn months, allowing you to enjoy the serene environment while immersing in the village's rich culture and community spirit.
• Kizugawa: Located just 6km from Nara, Kizugawa is a vibrant city that blends excitement and natural beauty. This city is ideal for families and thrill-seekers, offering activities such as motor racing and an array of shopping options, including a bustling shopping mall. The city's urban parks and stunning temples provide a peaceful retreat, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after an eventful day. Kizugawa’s accessibility and diverse attractions make it a must-visit for those looking to explore the best of what the Nara region has to offer.

Things to do near Nara

Shopping

Nara offers charming shopping experiences, from traditional crafts at Naramachi to unique souvenirs at Nara Park. If you're up for a drive, visit the Aeon Mall in nearby Ikoma for a wider selection of stores, including popular brands and local delicacies.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of Nara Park, where you can practice yoga amidst the gentle presence of free-roaming deer. Visit the Naramachi district for a traditional hot spring experience, soaking in natural mineral waters while enjoying the serene atmosphere of historic wooden buildings.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, located 24km from Nara. This thrilling ride offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts seeking outdoor excitement in a serene setting.

Nightlife

Nara’s nightlife offers a charming blend of traditional and modern experiences. Enjoy a quiet evening at a local izakaya, or explore the vibrant bars near Naramachi for a taste of Japan's local brews. The serene atmosphere of Nara Park at night provides a unique backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nara

Nara is a budget-friendly destination with free attractions like Nara Park and Isonokami Jingu Shrine. For transport, consider walking or cycling to save money. The best months to visit for lower accommodation prices are January, February, and September, while booking a month in advance often secures better deals. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, and you can find last-minute discounts on platforms like Expedia. Combine hotel bookings with flights for significant savings, and utilise filters to find eco-friendly options that suit your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Nara are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Nara about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Nara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Nara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservations in Nara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Nara

Nara is an ideal destination for family-oriented, outdoor, and city-themed holidays. The area boasts an array of attractions, including temples, shrines, and urban parks, perfect for those seeking cultural and family experiences. Key points of interest include the city of Nara itself, the picturesque Nara Park, and the informative Nara Visitor Centre, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into this historic region.

• Nara Park: A serene urban park nestled in the heart of Nara, this expansive area is renowned for its free-roaming deer, which add a unique charm. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Saidai-ji: This historic temple offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Saidai-ji is known for its exquisite architecture and tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to experience the spiritual essence of Nara.
• Osaka Castle Park: Located 26km from Nara, this historical park surrounds the iconic Osaka Castle. It boasts a beautiful garden and friendly locals, making it a delightful place to immerse yourself in Japan's past.

Best time to go to Nara

The best time to visit Nara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Nara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Nara falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
November	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Nara

Flying into Nara, Japan, is convenient via several major airports. Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) is located 58km away, with nearby hotels such as the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal. Another option is Kobe Airport (UKB), situated 53km away, with the luxurious 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8km from the airport. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 95km away, where the 3.5-star Centrair Hotel is located 161m from the terminal. Each airport offers various transportation services to facilitate your journey to Nara.