Hotel Asyl Nara is a mid-range city hotel in the central streets of Nara, a short walk from the stations and within comfortable walking distance of Nara Park and the old town. It has the feel of a traditional Japanese inn translated into a hotel, with natural wood, soft lighting and a small library lounge where guests can read in the evening. Rooms are spacious by Japanese city standards and are equipped with a refrigerator, a private bathroom with a bath and shower and tea service, and the hotel offers free internet access. There is a Japanese restaurant serving lunch and dinner, and a breakfast buffet of Japanese dishes, fresh fruit and juice, plus public baths for guests, which are a welcome treat after a day of walking among the temples.
Location and getting around
The hotel's central position means that both main stations are within an easy walk, which makes arrivals simple whether you come by the JR line or the Kintetsu line, and it is convenient for the loop buses and for trains to Horyu-ji or Kyoto. Nara Park is within roughly ten to fifteen minutes on foot, Kofuku-ji is a little further, and Todai-ji is a longer but pleasant walk through the park. The covered shopping arcades and restaurants of the old town lie close by, so dinner options are plentiful.
Rooms and who it suits
This is a good choice for couples, solo travellers and small families who want more space and atmosphere than a standard business hotel without paying for a luxury property. The public baths and the library lounge give the hotel a relaxed, domestic feel, and the Japanese restaurant is a convenient option on the night you are too tired to hunt for dinner. It is also a sensible base for a stay of several nights, because the rooms are comfortable enough to relax in and the location suits both walking and train trips.
Good to know
Breakfast is worth comparing with the cafes in the old town, though the buffet is generous and has a Japanese emphasis. Facilities such as baths, restaurant hours and parking can change, so check the details when you book, and ask about luggage storage if you arrive before check-in or leave after check-out. If you are a light sleeper, request a room away from the street.
Rooms in the quieter parts of the building and with a view toward the old roofs are worth asking for. Book early for the autumn colour season and for spring, when mid-range hotels in the centre are among the first to sell out. Staff can usually help with directions to the temples and with luggage storage on your last day.
Why stay here
- ✓Short walk from the stations
- ✓Public baths
- ✓Japanese restaurant
- ✓Breakfast buffet
- ✓Library lounge
- ✓Free internet access
- ✓Refrigerator in rooms
- ✓Tea service in rooms
Good questions
How far is Hotel Asyl Nara from Nara Park?+
It is within roughly ten to fifteen minutes on foot, and both main stations are a short walk away.
Does the hotel have a bath?+
Yes, the hotel has public baths for guests. Check the opening hours when you book.
Is there a restaurant?+
There is a Japanese restaurant serving lunch and dinner, and a breakfast buffet. The old town also has many places to eat nearby.
