Search Nara hotels

Top reasons to visit Nara

• Historic Temples: Nara is home to stunning temples like Todai-ji, showcasing Japan's rich cultural heritage.
• Nara Park: This expansive park is perfect for family outings, featuring free-roaming deer and beautiful landscapes.
• Culinary Delights: Experience a diverse culinary scene, from local eateries to upscale restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine.
• Shopping Districts: Explore vibrant shopping areas filled with unique boutiques and local crafts, perfect for souvenirs.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from various lodging options, including hot spring-themed stays and LGBTQIA-friendly hotels.

Find great hotels near Nara

Discover a range of accommodation options in Nara, where you can find hotels and hostels that cater to diverse preferences, including LGBTQIA-friendly and hot spring-themed experiences. Whether you're seeking the best Nara hotels or a memorable stay at Hotel Nikko Nara, you'll find welcoming lodgings to make your visit unforgettable.

• Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba: Located 27.4km from Nara, the Sotetsu Grand Fresa Osaka - Namba is a well-rated 3.5-star hotel offering a blend of comfort and convenience. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the hotel features a variety of dining options, including an unspecified restaurant and a daily buffet breakfast. Guests can unwind with entertainment options such as flat-screen TVs and pay movies. The nearby shopping and entertainment districts provide ample opportunities for exploration, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to experience Osaka’s vibrant culture.
• Namba Oriental Hotel: Also situated 27.4km from Nara, the Namba Oriental Hotel boasts a slightly higher guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This 3.5-star accommodation stands out with its variety of dining facilities, including a snack bar and an unspecified restaurant that serves daily breakfast. For the active traveller, nearby fitness facilities are available, while entertainment options like televisions enhance the experience. With its proximity to the city centre and metro station, guests can easily venture out to discover the bustling heart of Osaka.
• APA Hotel Namba Ekihigashi: The APA Hotel Namba Ekihigashi is a comfortable 3-star hotel, located 27.4km from Nara, and holds a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Featuring local dining options and a daily buffet breakfast, this hotel caters to diverse tastes. Entertainment options include cable and LCD TVs, as well as first-run movies for a fun night in. Its advantageous location near the city centre and shopping district, coupled with nearby laundromat facilities, makes it a practical choice for both short and extended stays.

Where to stay in and around Nara

Nara, a captivating city in Japan, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and rich cultural experiences. Explore the serene temples, including the iconic Todai-ji, or enjoy a relaxing temple stay. Wander through bustling shopping districts, uncover hidden gems, and venture to nearby Kashihara City for a taste of history. With its unique atmosphere and diverse attractions, Nara promises an unforgettable vacation filled with adventure and relaxation for every traveller.

• Noboriōji: Nestled in the picturesque Nara Prefecture, Noboriōji is a charming village that offers a delightful escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is easily accessible and provides a unique blend of urban park experiences and serene nature. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centres, unwind at spas, or explore nearby art museums. With peak travel seasons in April and October to November, Noboriōji's pleasant climate and family-friendly attractions make it an appealing destination for a relaxing getaway.
• Kizugawa: Located a mere 6.4km from Nara, Kizugawa is a vibrant city that thrives on its dynamic outdoor and family-themed experiences. The city boasts an array of attractions, including thrilling motor racing events and expansive shopping mall centres. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll through its beautiful urban parks and discover tranquil temples nearby. Travelers flock to Kizugawa in April and during the autumn months, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an engaging city atmosphere combined with nature.
• Yamatokoriyama: This lively city, also just 6.4km away from Nara, is renowned for its rich cultural offerings and outdoor activities. Yamatokoriyama features a variety of venues, from rejuvenating body treatment centres to vibrant shopping areas. For those seeking adventure, the local ski fields provide winter fun, while the urban parks and theme parks cater to families looking for leisurely days out. With peak visitor numbers in March to April and July, Yamatokoriyama is a delightful blend of culture and recreation that shouldn't be missed.

Things to do near Nara

Shopping

In Nara, visit the Naramachi district for traditional crafts and souvenirs, and enjoy the charming atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out the Aeon Mall in nearby Ikoma, located about 19.3km away, offering a range of shops and eateries for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

Nara offers the serene Naramachi Yuuyake-so, a traditional ryokan with soothing onsen baths and tranquil gardens for relaxation. At Nara Park, enjoy leisurely walks amidst free-roaming deer while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for rejuvenating your spirit in nature.

Adventure

Take a thrilling ride on the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, located 24.1km from Nara, for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top, explore hiking trails that offer a blend of adventure and family-friendly outdoor activities, perfect for enjoying nature's beauty.

Nightlife

Nara's nightlife offers a charming blend of local izakayas and cozy bars. Explore the atmospheric streets lined with lanterns, where you can unwind with a drink at places like Nara's Craft Beer House or enjoy traditional sake in intimate settings. The relaxed vibe allows for delightful conversations and cultural immersion.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nara

Nara is a fantastic budget-friendly destination with free entry to attractions like Nara Park and Isonokami Jingu Shrine. To save on transport, consider walking or renting a bicycle. For accommodation, visit during the cheaper months of January, February, and September, and book about a month in advance for the best rates. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Tuesdays, which are the least expensive days to stay. Combining your hotel booking with flights can also lead to savings. Don’t forget to filter prices from lowest to highest for the best deals.

• 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 March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Nara about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Nara hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Nara

Nara is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a rich blend of culture and urban charm. Key attractions include the stunning temples and shrines, as well as the expansive Nara Park, perfect for a day out with the family. Don't forget to visit the Nara Visitor Centre for helpful insights on the city and its highlights, ensuring a memorable experience in this historic Japanese city.

• Kasuga Shrine: Nestled in a serene forest, Kasuga Shrine is renowned for its stunning lanterns and vibrant seasonal flowers. The shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a tranquil atmosphere where visitors can appreciate traditional Shinto architecture and the spiritual ambiance of nature.
• Kofuku-ji Temple: Kofuku-ji Temple, with its five-storey pagoda, stands as an iconic symbol of Nara. This historic temple showcases exquisite Buddhist art and architecture, inviting tourists to explore its peaceful grounds and learn about its rich cultural significance.
• Heijo Palace: Heijo Palace provides a glimpse into Japan's imperial past, featuring reconstructed buildings set in expansive grounds. Visitors can wander through the historic site, discovering insights into the life of ancient Japanese nobility while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

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 three major airports. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 57.9km away, with nearby hotels like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, only 161m from the terminal. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is 35.4km from Nara, featuring luxurious options like Swissotel Nankai Osaka, 14.5km away. Finally, Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 95.0km distant, with quality stays such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km from the airport. Each airport offers reliable transport services to their respective hotels, ensuring a smooth arrival in Nara.