Shin Hosono Station × Highly rated for dining at Hotel·Ryokan

To reach the second-floor area, we had to use a narrow, steep box staircase, so I felt that it might be difficult to stay here if my legs or knees were not in good shape—but it was an interesting experience overall. The food and drinks were delicious, and the staff’s warm, hospitable service was very pleasant.

First, the Accommodation’s location, surrounded by Nara’s famous sights, is outstanding. Next, the Room and bath Facilities are functional and very clean. The thoughtful design and maintenance, along with the staff’s attentive care, reflect high-quality management. Finally, the meals. They were high-quality in a traditional Nara-style Japanese cuisine, exactly as expected. It was a pity that Kofuku-ji Temple’s five-story pagoda—normally visible from the bath—was sadly covered by a temporary protective roof. Once the restoration work is finished, I’d like to visit again. Thank you very much.

From the tableware and restaurant to the interior design, guestroom styling, and amenities, the chef’s attention to detail is evident everywhere, creating a truly impressive sense of unity. During my stay, I felt completely removed from everyday life—almost as if I had wandered into another world. The exterior and lounge offer a charming Japanese-style space in a renovated traditional house, with large windows overlooking Mt. Wakakusa and deer strolling nearby. As you move further inside, the atmosphere shifts dramatically; the restaurant in particular feels like dining in a cave. The excitement of the open kitchen adds to the experience, and each dish is so beautifully presented you’ll want to admire it for ages. The menu carefully notes ingredients and producers, and for items from Nara Prefecture it even introduces their specific places of origin in detail. With every course, you can feel respect for both ingredients and makers—and the chef’s passion comes through clearly. Even familiar ingredients reveal new flavors and appeal, offering delightful surprises. Yet nothing feels gimmicky; instead there’s a comforting familiarity that strikes an exquisite balance, making every dish thoroughly enjoyable. Including breakfast the next morning and the overall Accommodation experience, it was a stay I won’t forget. It seems possible to visit just for the restaurant as well, but I strongly recommend staying overnight too so you can fully immerse yourself in this auberge’s unique world.

On the first day, we stayed at a farm-stay Accommodation in Asuka Village, and on the second day we stayed here at Obana’s Hotel, enjoying a stroll around Naramachi and Nara Park. From Kintetsu Nara Station, you can take your time on the way to the Hotel—looking at the shopping streets and passing Sarusawa Pond on your left. The coffee in the café corner was delicious. Since we had an early morning, we chose a no-breakfast Plan, and bread and salad from a convenience store made for a great breakfast. One small thing: the unit bath bathtub was compact, so it was a little hard to fully relax. However, considering the price for single use at Hotels around Nara Station that day, it was excellent value for money—so that may be within an acceptable range.

Because our previous stay was wonderful, we stayed again to celebrate my son’s high school entrance, together with my parents. The food was also excellent, and my parents and son were very happy. My parents liked it so much that they said they would like to stay at this Hotel whenever they visit Nara. We are planning to visit again around autumn. Thank you in advance.

This was my third stay, and once again I stayed for three nights. The Room and bath were comfortable, and above all, I always feel that the staff’s outstanding hospitality is truly wonderful. The international staff members also work so hard that it really comes through and makes me feel warmly welcomed.

Our first stay at a Kyoritsu Resort. We were extremely satisfied with everything—the location, the Room and other Facilities, the Onsen, the meals, and the overall service. Breakfast was exceptionally delicious. We would love to stay again.

This Accommodation made us feel warmly welcomed in every detail, and we were able to spend a relaxing, luxurious time. The meals offered a wide variety of dishes and were truly delicious. The private dining room also had a wonderful view of the city and cherry blossoms. We were completely satisfied with the Room and the baths.

About 20 years ago, I first learned about Nara Hotel through a certain book. The book featured the exterior of the main building, and I was so captivated by its appearance that I dreamed of staying there someday. However, nearly 20 years passed without an opportunity. This time, to celebrate my mother's 70th birthday, we finally stayed in the main building. From the moment we entrusted our luggage to the staff's warm hospitality, we were deeply moved. The detailed explanation during check-in was also exceptional. Upon returning from a stroll outside, every staff member made us feel as comfortable as if we had returned home. The room and interior decor reflected its rich history while providing a sense of comfort that allowed us to enjoy our stay fully. We had both breakfast and dinner during our stay; each meal was absolutely delicious and left us completely satisfied. The staff's explanations for each dish were clear and thoughtful as well. Dining at the tea lounge or bar while enjoying views of the surroundings offered an extraordinary experience beyond everyday life. Having stayed at many accommodations in both Kanto and Kansai areas over the years, Nara Hotel has undoubtedly become my personal number one hotel choice! My mother was also delighted with her experience here. We look forward to staying again in the future—thank you very much!

Overall, we had a very comfortable stay. Above all, the location was excellent. It also felt a bit more reasonably priced compared to other areas. The meals were delicious, and the room was comfortable. 　 The 24-hour self-serve drink bar actually had some snacks as well—I ended up having quite a lot. Thank you very much. 　 This is now one of the Ryokan I’d love to visit again!

I stayed here on a trip to Nara. Even though it was a great-value Plan, the Room was spacious and spotless, with a wide range of amenities. It was also very quiet. The bathroom and toilet were new, and the Facility was excellent, so I had a very comfortable stay. Above all, everything was clean. With floor-to-ceiling windows in the Room and such a great view, it made me want to stay at the Hotel instead of going out. The front desk staff were also very pleasant. When I come back to Nara, I will definitely stay here again.

I loved the experience of staying halfway up Mt. Wakakusa, and this was my second stay. I was able to spend a truly relaxing time. I think this is an auberge where you can enjoy ingredients from Nara. The carefully prepared dinner is exceptional, and with advice from the experienced sommelier, you may find yourself enjoying more drinks than planned. All baths are always kept clean. The in-Room bath, indoor bath, and private panoramic open-air bath all provide high-quality shampoo, conditioner, and other amenities in full-size bottles. What I especially recommend: - Soaking in the complimentary private panoramic open-air bath while taking in sweeping views of the cityscape of Nara - The complimentary “New Japan’s Three Greatest Night Views” and stargazing tour (you might even see deer) This is a Hotel I hope to stay at again.

I didn’t expect to find such a great Hotel in such a convenient location. There’s a lounge where you can relax after sightseeing, local cuisine unique to the area, and many other features that make for a clean Room and a comfortable stay. The service was also excellent, and I had no stress at all. I’ll definitely consider staying here again the next time I visit Nara. Thank you!

We stayed here for sightseeing in Nara. It’s right in front of the station and within walking distance of the main attractions, so we were able to go sightseeing twice—on both the first and second days. Since check-out was not until 11:00, we could leave our luggage at the Hotel and enjoy sightseeing at a relaxed pace, which was great. We were also surprised to see about 10 deer casually hanging around in a park(?) just a few dozen meters from the Hotel—it really felt like Nara. The Hotel rates were reasonable, and the breakfast selection was plentiful and delicious. As for the Room, it was a bit inconvenient that when boiling water with the kettle, the power outlet was located above the TV and hard to use. My daughter is staying overnight in Nara this month to meet up with friends, and based on my recommendation she plans to stay at Smile Hotel. Thank you in advance. We would also like to stay here again when we visit Nara.

The location was excellent, and all the staff were very courteous and helpful. In the lobby, there was a map with a list of recommended restaurants from the Hotel, and we enjoyed a delicious dinner at one of them. Thank you for your hospitality.

I made a Reservation with dinner and breakfast included, and every dish was delicious. The service was excellent, and I was very satisfied. The large public bath was a bit small, so I couldn’t fully relax, but everything else was wonderful. It’s a Hotel I would like to stay at again.

I stayed for a Multiple Night Stay, and the room was cleaned perfectly, making my stay very comfortable. It’s close to the station, and there are plenty of parking options nearby, so I would definitely like to stay again.

It’s really close by and very convenient. We also enjoyed a delicious meal at a nearby izakaya in the evening.

Thank you for your suggestions for the Roku-chan Room. We’re also cherishing the kofun cushion we purchased at home. Although we originally planned to stay overnight, we ended up enjoying many things more than expected. We were able to stay until late and relax at our own pace. Thank you very much for everything.

Close to the station, near major sightseeing spots, and affordable—that’s why I chose it, and it turned out to be even better than expected (great value for the price). The luggage storage before check-in was very helpful. The twin Room was slightly larger than a typical Business Hotel Room and was very clean. The bathroom area in particular was spotless—not a trace of water stains or mold. I was truly impressed. The breakfast bread was thick, fluffy, and delicious. Also, the staff member who helped us at breakfast greeted us with a constant smile, which made the morning feel wonderful. At check-out, a deer saw us off at the door—another memorable moment. On my next trip to Nara, I’d definitely like to stay here again.