Find Historic Hotels in Nara

Some time exploring the prominent temples in Nara is a draw to those who want to learn about local history. Why not appreciate the gardens during your visit?

Based on our travel expertise, Onyado Nono Nara Natural Hot Spring is a top hotel on Expedia for those interested in history, and it features a restaurant and free WiFi. Kofuku-ji Temple is a short 14-minute walk away. Other choices to soak up the local history include Hotel Nikko Nara and Nara Hotel.

In Nara, there are 169 hotel accommodations bookable on Expedia but not many designated as historic hotels.

Nara is notable for its temples and monuments, and landmarks include Heijo Palace, Nara Woman’s University, and Kofuku-ji Temple. Cultural venues include Nara National Museum, Nara Craft Museum, and Nara City Museum of Photography. Additionally, in the area you’ll find Dotonbori and Kyocera Dome Osaka.

Guests who book a historic hotel can spend a night or two in a building that has an officially recognized national historic designation. A palace, castle, grand home or even an old police station, pub, lodge, or skyscraper can be turned into a historic hotel provided that it has special significance. Traditional architecture and period features are often found in the guestrooms or communal spaces of these historic hotels in Nara, giving a historical feel.

You’ll often hear the term “heritage hotel” in Asia and Europe, while “historic hotel” is a term often used in the U.S. though overall the terms are quite similar. The physical building and architecture of historic hotels are generally what’s most important. For a heritage hotel, mainly, it’s cultural value as well as how it influenced the community.

Hotels include modern conveniences and safety features you’ve come to expect, though efforts have been made to preserve the historic aspects and traditions. Private rooms with updated bathroom facilities, free WiFi, and the normal amenities found at a contemporary hotel will also be available in a historic hotel. When you book a historic hotel in Nara, don’t worry that you’ll find a place that’s uncomfortable for guests or simply rundown.