Best Ryokans in Nara

Ancient temple stays in Japan's first permanent capital

Browse All Nara Ryokans

Where to Stay in Nara

Popular areas for ryokan stays

Nara City

Todaiji TempleNara ParkKasuga Taisha Shrine

Nearby: Todaiji Temple · Nara Park · Kasuga Taisha Shrine · Kofukuji Temple

Yoshino

Cherry blossomsSacred mountain templesHistoric pilgrimage routes

Nearby: Mount Yoshino · Kinpusenji Temple · Yoshimizu Shrine · Chikurin-in Temple

Asuka

Ancient monumentsHistoric templesRural landscapes

Nearby: Asuka Historical Museum · Ishibutai Tomb · Asuka Temple · Takamatsuzuka Tomb

Sakurai

Omiwa ShrineHistoric templesTraditional sake breweries

Nearby: Omiwa Shrine · Hasedera Temple · Tanzan Shrine · Yamanobe-no-michi Trail

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Curated lists to help you choose the right ryokan

Best Ryokans in Nara Best Cherry Blossom Ryokans

Best Time to Visit Nara

What to expect throughout the year

Spring (March - May)

Mild and comfortable (15°C average)

·Cherry blossom viewing
·Deer feeding
·Temple visits
·Pilgrimage walks

Events: Todaiji Omizutori Festival, Nara Rurie Light Festival, Cherry Blossom Festival

Summer (June - August)

Hot and humid (28°C average)

·Early morning temple visits
·Evening lantern viewing
·Mountain hiking

Events: Nara Tokae Lantern Festival, Mount Yoshino Festival, Great Buddha Cleaning

Autumn (September - November)

Cool and crisp (18°C average)

·Autumn leaf viewing
·Historic trail hiking
·Tea ceremonies

Events: Kasuga Taisha Lantern Festival, Nara Art Festival, Harvest festivals

Winter (December - February)

Cold but relatively dry (6°C average)

·Winter illuminations
·Hot spring visits
·New Year ceremonies

Events: Wakakusa Yamayaki, Todaiji New Year ceremony, Winter Light-up

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time to visit Nara?

Spring (March-April) for cherry blossoms and festivals, and autumn (October-November) for fall colors and comfortable weather are the best times. Winter offers unique illuminations and fewer crowds.

How do I interact with the deer in Nara Park?

The deer are considered sacred and are generally friendly. You can purchase special deer crackers (shika-senbei) from vendors in the park. Bow to the deer and they may bow back! Always treat them with respect and follow park guidelines.

What are the must-visit temples?

Todaiji Temple with its Great Buddha statue, Kofukuji Temple with its five-story pagoda, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine with its thousands of lanterns are must-visit sites. All are located within or near Nara Park.