Nara Royal Hotel stands in the Hokkeji district, on the quieter northern side of Nara, and it offers a different kind of stay from the compact business hotels beside the stations. It is the sort of place that suits travellers who value facilities and parking over being able to walk out of the door into the shopping streets. The property lists free on-site parking, a continental breakfast plan, air-conditioned non-smoking rooms with a refrigerator and television, high-speed wireless internet and a gift shop. Leisure facilities include indoor pool facilities with a children's pool, a health club and jogging trails, which make it a practical base for families and for anyone who wants to unwind after a day of temples. Wheelchair access to the public areas is also listed, and laundry and dry-cleaning services are available for longer stays.
Location and getting around
The hotel's address in Hokkeji puts it north-east of the main stations, in a calmer residential area close to the temple that gives the district its name. It is not as central as the hotels between the stations, so check the distance to Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station and the local bus and taxi options when you book. In return you get a quieter street, easier road access and free parking, which makes the hotel a sensible choice if you are touring Nara Prefecture by car, planning trips to Asuka, Horyu-ji or Yoshino, or arriving with a lot of luggage.
Rooms and who it suits
Rooms are straightforward and comfortable, with air conditioning, a refrigerator and television. The setting suits families, groups of friends and couples who would rather spend time at the hotel than in the busiest parts of town. The pool facilities and the health club give children something to do in the evening, and the jogging trails are pleasant for an early run before breakfast.
If you plan to eat out in Naramachi every night, a more central hotel may be more convenient, but if you prefer a quiet base with facilities, this is a good alternative.
Good to know
Check-in is in the afternoon and check-out is in the late morning, so ask about luggage storage if your plans do not match those times. Facilities such as the pool, health club and restaurants can have set opening hours and seasonal schedules, so confirm them when you book and ask whether any carry an extra charge.
Car rental is available through the hotel, which helps if you want to add a day trip. Book early for the autumn colour season and for spring, when the hotels around Nara fill up quickly, and ask staff for help with directions, bus times and taxis to the main sights.
Why stay here
- ✓Free on-site parking
- ✓Continental breakfast plan
- ✓Indoor pool facilities
- ✓Health club
- ✓Jogging trails
- ✓Free high-speed wireless internet
- ✓Refrigerator in rooms
- ✓Wheelchair access to public areas
Good questions
Is Nara Royal Hotel close to Nara Park?+
It is in the Hokkeji district on the northern side of Nara, so it is not as close to the park and stations as the central hotels. Check the distance and the bus and taxi options when you book.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Yes, free on-site parking is listed, which makes it a good choice if you are touring the prefecture by car.
Does it have a pool?+
Indoor pool facilities, including a children's pool, and a health club are listed. Opening hours can vary, so confirm them when you book.
