Where to Stay in Nara, Japan: 4 Best Areas & Hotels
Planning a trip to Nara? We’re here to help!
This peaceful city is home to some of Japan’s oldest temples, beautiful parks, and, of course, those famous free-roaming deer. But whether you’re just here for an overnight trip or staying for a few days, finding the right place to base yourself can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Nara. We’ve covered everything from the charming old town to convenient spots near the train stations. And we didn’t stop there, either – we’ve also handpicked the top hotels in each neighborhood, from traditional ryokans to boutique gems.
Let’s help you find the perfect place to stay while soaking up all the magic Nara has to offer!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Nara is Naramanchi. It’s the city’s historic heart, filled with traditional wooden houses, cozy tea shops, and cultural charm.
We love Nara Hotel, a historic icon since 1909, offering elegant rooms and a perfect location near Naramachi and Nara Park.
Where to Stay in Nara Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Nara
Nara itself is actually bigger than many people realize, but there are four key areas where you’ll spend most of your time, so that’s what we’ve focused on for this blog. The good news is that once you arrive (via JR or Kintetsu rail lines), the city is incredibly walkable. There’s also a reliable bus system and local trains if you prefer not to walk, and to help you reach a few outlying spots.
- Naramachi is the city’s beautifully preserved old merchant district. It’s full of character and charm, with lots of narrow alleys lined with wooden machiya houses and artisan shops. Staying at the historic Nara Hotel adds a touch of elegance, with classic architecture and a prime location near Nara Park.
- Nara Park Area puts you right next to Nara’s biggest attractions: Todai-ji, Kasuga Shrine, and all the famous deer. Hotel New Wakasa is a stylish yet affordable luxury stay right by the park, with serene rooms, onsen access, and optional gourmet meals featuring local cuisine.
- Nara JR Station is a smart choice for quick stays or if you’re traveling with JR passes. It’s close to the action, very convenient for onward travel, and has a few modern hotel options if that’s more your style. Onyado Nono Nara Natural Hot Spring blends cultural charm with convenience, featuring tatami rooms, a soothing onsen, and even free late-night ramen.
- Kintetsu Nara Station is the city’s modern tourist area, and it’s livelier than the rest of the city, with lots of restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops – plus, it’s just a short walk to Nara Park. Henn na Hotel Premier Nara offers a quirky, futuristic stay where robot staff check you in, alongside clean, modern rooms right by the station.
Important Tip
Multiple Nara trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Nara accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Nara, Japan
Naramachi
Naramachi is Nara’s historic heart, and it’s absolutely lovely. During the Edo period, it was a bustling merchant district, but today it’s a peaceful area full of charm and character. There are still lots of traditional wooden machiya houses leftover from that time, as well as plenty of galleries, tea houses, and tiny museums to check out. It’s one of those places where you’ll want to slow down and just wander.
Staying in Naramachi is ideal if you want a more traditional and atmospheric experience. It’s quieter than the station areas but still within easy walking distance of Nara Park and many of the city’s top sights. You’ll be close to Gango-ji Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Naramachi Museum, and lovely little cafes tucked away in historic buildings.
This is our favorite area of Nara to stay in. We love experiencing the cultural side of the city and diving deep into traditional Japanese culture, so it suits us down to the ground. There are fewer chain hotels here, so most accommodation tends to be boutique or ryokan-style. We love staying in ryokans, but if you want a fancier and more modern stay, you might be better off opting for another area.
Pros
- Beautiful, traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere
- Close to temples, museums, and Nara Park
Cons
- Limited nightlife or restaurant variety
- Not ideal for travelers who prefer modern, full-service hotels
SETRE Naramachi – $$$
SETRE Naramachi is a gorgeous boutique hotel with serious design flair. The interiors blend traditional and modern Japanese aesthetics, using natural wood, stone, and soft lighting to create a calming space. What makes this place truly special is that it delivers five-star comfort without compromising on tradition.
Some rooms have views of Gango-ji Temple or its tranquil courtyard garden, which adds to the peaceful vibe. There’s a cozy lounge where you can enjoy coffee, drinks, or sweets throughout the day. This hotel is perfect for anyone craving a serene, luxurious experience, with a prime location in the heart of old Nara. Rooms start at $285 USD per night and range up to $430 USD.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Nara Hotel – $$
This historic hotel is a destination in itself! Open since 1909, the Nara Hotel has hosted royalty and world leaders over the years, and it still has that old-world charm. The architecture is stunning, with elegant lounges, antique furnishings, and sweeping views over Nara Park. I can see why so many celebrities have chosen to stay here!
Rooms are a mix of classic and modern styles, and while it’s not ultra-luxurious, it’s full of character. The hotel is just a short stroll from both Naramachi and Nara Park, so it’s ideal for sightseeing with a touch of culture and class. Rates start at $220 USD per night.
Check all prices and book your stay here!
Nara Ryokan – $
If you’re after a budget-friendly stay with local charm, Nara Ryokan is a solid pick. It’s a traditional Japanese inn with tatami mat rooms and a warm, welcoming vibe. While it’s simple and no-frills, the location is excellent. The property is tucked into the quiet streets of Naramachi and within walking distance of both temples and the park, so it’s ideally situated for exploring everything this city has to offer!
I think that this is a great base for travelers who want something authentic and comfortable without breaking the bank. The staff are also super friendly and happy to share local tips. Rooms here typically cost between $95 and $160 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Nara Park Area
If you’re coming to Nara for the deer, temples, and iconic photo ops, then staying near Nara Park puts you right in the heart of it all. This scenic area is perfect for first-timers because it’s home to Nara’s top attractions, including Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the ever-curious free-roaming deer that make this place so memorable.
Staying in the Nara Park Area means you’ll be surrounded by greenery, history, and a surprisingly peaceful vibe, especially early in the morning before the day-trippers arrive. There’s something so special about wandering around and seeing the deer when there’s no one else around!
This area is perfect for travelers who want to soak in Nara’s natural and cultural beauty without rushing. That said, there’s not a ton of nightlife or shopping right within the park, so it’s more suited to those seeking a quiet and atmospheric stay.
Getting around is easy, too. Nara Park is about a 10-minute walk from either JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, and local buses also run through the area. It’s a particularly magical place to stay during cherry blossom season or in autumn when the leaves turn red and orange.
Pros
- Steps from Nara’s most famous sights
- Serene, scenic, and great for nature lovers
Cons
- Fewer dining and shopping options at night
- Not ideal for those seeking a lively city vibe
- Accommodation tends to be pricier
Tsukihitei – $$$
Tsukihitei is a traditional ryokan nestled inside the forested hills of Kasugayama, within Nara Park itself. It’s probably one of the most peaceful places you could ever stay!
The rooms are pure Japanese elegance, with tatami mats, sliding doors, and garden views. They serve amazing Kaiseki dinners in-room, which are beautifully presented with seasonal ingredients. In fact, both breakfast and a kaiseki dinner are included each day, so although this is a pricey spot, you do get a lot for your money.
To my mind, this place is a real bucket list stay. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quiet and refined deep dive into Japanese culture. Rooms here cost between $750 and $1,100 USD per night.
Hotel New Wakasa – $$
Hotel New Wakasa is a stunning and luxurious hotel that won’t break the bank. Basically, it’s a total gem! The rooms are beautiful and well-laid out, with modern Japanese decor and soft, cozy lighting. Some rooms have private gardens or onsens, as well as a rooftop terrace with a communal onsen and amazing views of Mount Wakakusa.
We also recommend opting to include breakfast and dinner, because both are amazing, and a great way to get to know the region’s cuisine. Rooms cost between $175 and $880 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.
Find out more and book your stay here!
Related Read: If you’re wondering what to do once you arrive, our list of the best things to do in Nara is an easy guide to top experiences like seeing the famous deer, visiting temples, and making sushi!
Nara JR Station
A lot of travelers just stay in Nara for a night or two, since it’s possible to tick off the major sights pretty quickly. So if you’re just planning a quick stop here, we suggest staying in the area around Nara JR Station. It’s especially convenient if you’re arriving from another major city like Kyoto or Osaka!
Nara Station is one of Nara’s main transport hubs. A lot of JR lines converge here, and lots of local buses stop just outside the station. But you won’t even necessarily need public transport to get around, because the station is just a 15 – 20 minute walk to Nara Park and most of the city’s other attractions.
Although this place is very convenient, it’s not the most atmospheric part of Nara. It has a more functional feel, so we stay here for convenience, not the vibes! However, if you prefer to stay in chain hotels and like to shop in department stores, you’ll be well catered for around here.
But while Nara Station isn’t overflowing with traditional charm, it’s a smart base if you’re traveling with luggage, arriving late, or just want something quick and easy. It ticks a lot of boxes, and it’s still easy to get to the more scenic parts of the city from here.
Pros
- Super convenient for trains and buses
- Great for short stays
- Plenty of amenities
Cons
- Lacks historic charm
- A bit further from the main sights on foot
Hotel Nikko Nara – $$$
Hotel Nikko Nara is directly connected to JR Nara Station, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in the city. It’s a full-service hotel with spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and even a wellness spa. While the design leans a little corporate, the comfort and location can’t be beat.
Rooms are clean and well-equipped, and there are both Western and Japanese-style options available. The breakfast buffet offers a ton of variety, and the hotel offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before your stay for peace of mind.
It’s a solid upscale choice, particularly if you’re stopping in Nara as part of a longer Japan itinerary. Expect to pay between $90 and $200 USD per night for a room here.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Onyado Nono Nara Natural Hot Spring – $$
Onyado Nono Nara Natural Hot Spring is a popular hotel with lots of traditional design touches like tatami flooring, yukata robes, and sliding doors, plus all the conveniences of a modern hotel. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from JR Nara Station, so we think that this place strikes a really good balance between practicality and cultural charm.
One of the biggest draws here is the natural hot spring onsen, which is a fantastic treat after a day of walking around the city. There’s also a free bowl of late-night ramen for guests, which is an unexpected and very welcome perk! Rates typically range from $95 to $320 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Hotel Rokune – $$
Hotel Rokune is a small, stylish hotel just a short stroll from JR Nara Station. It has a fresh, modern vibe with minimalist rooms that feature light wood accents and thoughtful design. It’s a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap.
The staff are super friendly, the beds are super comfy, and there’s a cozy communal area that’s perfect for relaxing or grabbing a coffee. It’s not far from the main tourist trail, and the location makes it easy to hop on a train or bus, or explore the rest of Nara on foot. Rooms typically cost between $85 and $200 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Kintetsu Nara Station
If you want to stay somewhere lively, convenient, and full of great food, the area around Kintetsu Nara Station is the place to be! This is Nara’s main tourist hub, and it’s packed with cafés, restaurants, izakayas, and shopping arcades. It’s a modern and super central area, so you’ve got tons of amenities, and Nara Park is just 5-10 minutes away on foot.
Other major sights like Kofuku-ji Temple, Nara National Museum, and Todai-ji are nearby. And of course, since you’re right near one of Nara’s main train stations, you can always hop on a train or bus and reach these spots in under 5 minutes!
Compared to other parts of Nara, Kintetsu Station certainly feels less traditional and peaceful. However, it’s more vibrant, too, and there’s a great variety of accommodations here, from stylish boutique hotels to more traditional stays.
The area does get busy during the day, especially around Higashimuki Shopping Street, but it quiets down at night, and there’s always somewhere to grab a meal or drink. Whether you’re doing a quick overnight stop or spending a few days in town, staying near Kintetsu Nara Station gives you the best of both worlds: city buzz and easy access to Nara’s most iconic sights.
Pros
- Close to Nara Park and top attractions
- Loads of food, shops, and nightlife options
Cons
- Tourist-heavy during peak hours
- Not as quiet or traditional as Naramachi
Kasuga Hotel – $$
Kasuga Hotel blends old-school elegance with modern comfort, all just steps from Kintetsu Nara Station. It has a warm, classic Japanese aesthetic, with rooms that feature tatami mats, futons, and private wooden baths in some suites. You’ll also be within easy walking distance of Nara Park and several major temples.
The service is super attentive, and we love the peaceful garden on site. There’s also a lovely open air onsen in the garden where guests can enjoy a relaxing soak after a long day of exploring. While this place is not super flashy, it feels like a real escape from the bustle outside. Expect rates between $250 and $550 USD per night for two people.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Henn na Hotel Premier Nara – $$
Yes, this is the one where robots check you in! If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, Henn na Hotel Premier Nara went viral on social media thanks to its robot staff. Yup, the receptionists, porters, and cleaning staff are all robots. Some are humanoid, while others are shaped like teddy bears and dinosaurs.
Speaking of teddy bears and dinos, there are some very fun themed rooms here if you’re after a more quirky experience! The hotel certainly delivers a unique experience, and beyond the gimmick, it’s actually a very solid hotel: clean, modern, and right next to Kintetsu Nara Station.
The rooms are compact but efficient, with high-tech features like air purifiers and motion-sensor lighting. It’s the kind of quirky, futuristic stay that you’ll only find in Japan! Prices normally range from $55 to $485 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae – $
Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae offers excellent value in one of the best locations in town. It’s just a 2-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. The rooms are small but sleek, with comfy beds, good lighting, and simple, clean interiors.
There’s a restaurant on site that serves a wide variety of Western and Japanese food, and this palace has a quiet vibe despite being in the middle of the action. You can walk to Nara Park in under 10 minutes, and there are lots of restaurants around, so you’ve got everything you need right on your doorstep. Rooms cost between $55 and $275 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Top Activities to do in Nara
No matter where in Nara you base yourself, there are endless ways to experience the city beyond ancient temples and wandering deer. From beating the crowds at dawn to gliding past shrines on two wheels, and even tasting locally crafted sake, these tours offered us unforgettable moments of discovery.
Pro tip: book early—many of these fill up fast, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
- Beat the crowds at dawn – This early-bird tour let us see Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, and Nara Park before the crowds arrived, with deer wandering quietly and the morning light casting a warm glow on the temples. Our guide kept things engaging yet peaceful, making it feel like the city was ours alone for a few precious hours.
- Walk through history at a gentle pace – Far from being just another itinerary-check, this half-day walking tour led us through Todai-ji, Kofuku-ji, and the deer-filled park—our guide’s stories made centuries-old stones feel alive and personal.
- Tailor-made for your interests – This private custom tour was completely tailored to us—whether we wanted more time at a famous temple or to explore a quiet neighborhood, our guide adjusted on the spot. It felt like traveling with a local friend who knew every secret path.
- Glide past icons on an e-bike – Gliding through the city on this e-bike Nara highlights tour, we covered so much more than we could have on foot—shrines, quiet backstreets, and scenic park paths—without feeling rushed or worn out. The mix of culture and movement kept the energy high all day.
- Sip local flavor with culture – This sake discovery tour introduced us to Nara’s brewing traditions through tastings at family-run breweries and conversations with local experts. Each pour came with a story, making it more than just a drink—it was a taste of the region’s history.
Related Read: Need help planning your trip? Follow our 1 or 2 day Nara itinerary for our favorite activities, hidden gems, and more!
Renting a Car in Japan
Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
- Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
- Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
- Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
- Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to stay in Nara! Whether you want the historic charm of Naramachi, the peaceful greenery of Nara Park, or the convenience of the JR and Kintetsu station areas, the right base will make exploring temples, gardens, and free-roaming deer even more enjoyable.
Be sure to book early, especially during cherry blossom or autumn season, since the best spots fill quickly. For more travel inspiration, check out our other Japan guides here for itineraries, top things to do, and even more hotel tips. Or check out some of our favorites below!
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