Gakuen-mae Station (Nara Prefecture) × Highly-rated Hotel·Ryokan

The meals were better than expected. Every dish made with Nara-style ingredients was delicious. Overall, I was satisfied, but it was a bit disappointing that after settling the bill at checkout, that was the end—there was no send-off.

Both the Room and the food were wonderful, and every staff member we met was incredibly kind. Even those we don’t usually have the chance to meet, such as the housekeeping team, greeted us warmly and made us feel energized as well. My elderly father was traveling with us, so we moved at a slower pace and our meal also took longer than usual, but the staff kindly adjusted to our timing and spoke to us gently, which helped my father relax and enjoy his meal. We’re already checking our schedule to see when we can visit again. Thank you in advance for your continued hospitality.

I stayed for one night on a solo trip. I received an email right after making the Reservation, and they also contacted me by email when I changed my dates, which made me feel at ease. The Room was full of thoughtful touches, and even though I made a last-minute request for a morning walk, they arranged it for me—and even prepared hand warmers and water. Dinner was more than I could finish, but everything was so delicious that I ended up eating it all, even ingredients I usually don’t like. The breakfast croissants were perfectly crisp yet fluffy, and the Eggs Benedict was also excellent—everything was truly delicious. The service struck just the right balance of attentiveness and distance, so I had a very comfortable stay. Another Accommodation I’d love to visit again has been added to my list.

We had a relaxing and comfortable stay in an outstanding location. The design and furnishings reflected a deep attention to detail and really resonated with us. Unfortunately, due to our schedule we couldn’t make it for dinner this time, but the breakfast was excellent, making great use of local ingredients. Next time, we’ll be back specifically to enjoy dinner.

A quiet, wonderful Accommodation. When we were shown to our Room, the open-air bath was already at the perfect temperature, with steam gently rising. I was completely won over by the bookshelf stocked with books about Nara and by the delicious local green tea in a pitcher in the fridge—just like at home (and bottled water is properly provided as well). Once you step out of your Room, you’re exposed to the outdoor temperature, so when moving around, you’ll freeze if you only wear the in-house loungewear and sandals with bare feet—please come prepared. The Japanese garden path leading to the restaurant is beautiful (we even saw deer in the morning), but after dinner with a few drinks—even though it’s just next door—we had them kindly drive us over so we wouldn’t get lost. On a weekday in March, we hardly ran into other guests at all; the restaurant was private-room dining, and check-in also felt semi-private, which made everything very comfortable. The food was thoughtfully prepared down to every detail and absolutely delicious. They also offered tastings of local Nara sake—it was pure bliss. Thank you very much! We’re already planning a visit next spring (lol).

It was new and easy to use, and the staff were cheerful and refreshingly attentive. The food was delicious, and we really enjoyed it with three types of Nara sake. We signed up for the Horyu-ji storyteller tour the next day, and were amazed by how wonderful the guide was. The materials, storytelling, and pacing were all excellent, and everyone was very satisfied. This is a Hotel we would definitely love to visit again.

First, I’d like to apologize. We were told we needed to check in by 6:00 p.m., but we didn’t get back down from the hike up Takatori Castle until after 5:00 p.m. In a panic I called, and was kindly told, “No problem—please come without rushing.” I was truly grateful. We ended up arriving around 6:45 p.m. Even though dinner was served in our Room, they still prepared everything properly from that time. The staff member in charge of our Room spoke with such polite Japanese that you’d never guess they were originally from Korea, and they took care of dinner while chatting with us. And the dinner—how delicious it was. We had rushed back by car and were parched, but even the tea was wonderful. The appetizers were excellent, and the two meat dishes in a row were incredible. It made me so happy to enjoy such a luxurious meal slowly and comfortably. Our family eats quite slowly, but they stayed with us without showing any displeasure at all (in the end we didn’t finish dessert before cleanup time, so we ended up eating it while they laid out our futons…). The bath was also fantastic—the therapeutic effect and aroma were perfect. Aside from me and my son, no one else came in at all. It wasn’t that it was empty; maybe our timing just worked out—but thanks to that, my son and I enjoyed a long soak together and even ended up talking about life. Needless to say, I slept soundly—even without drinking any alcohol. And breakfast: we went well past our promised 7:30 time (at this point it’s clear we’re simply a family that’s lax about time—my apologies), but even so we were able to enjoy breakfast calmly at the dining area. Both dinner and breakfast seemed like generous portions, yet it never felt too much—we finished everything because it was so good. After having coffee in the lobby, we checked out after 9:30 a.m., and they also took photos for us. Now for another apology: on some travel sites there were rather harsh Reviews about your Accommodation—for example about the building, the meals, or the service from staff. But honestly there were no issues at all. We thoroughly enjoyed everything—truly everything—and I’m very sorry for arriving feeling nervous because of those Reviews. Thank you very much for such a wonderful stay—and again I’m sorry for having doubts beforehand. We would love to stay again next time; perhaps as just a couple then. Autumn would be nice—I hope Kyoto will be quiet then as well (without any influence from big historical dramas).

The Room, bathroom, and toilet were all very clean. We also used the restaurant for lunch; the prices were reasonable and the food was excellent. When we visit Nara, we will definitely stay here again. All the staff maintained a comfortable level of attentiveness, which made our stay very pleasant.

This was my first time staying at a Daiwa Roynet Group Hotel with a same-day Reservation. I was impressed by the wide selection of amenities. The Room was spacious and well designed; although it was on a lower floor, it was quiet and comfortable. The Onsen after walking around all day was very relaxing. I would like to stay again.

I stayed for two nights on my own. As others have written, the Accommodation was clean and very well maintained. The bath was relaxing, and it was also nice that the entire building has tatami flooring. There were no issues at all for a solo female traveler. When I stayed, most guests seemed to be international visitors, and they were all very considerate as well.

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 had a very comfortable two-night stay. The Hotel was worth more than the accommodation fee. All drinks were provided, and they generously replenished the bottled water as well (though I didn’t take any to go). In particular, there were two sets of pillows—one soft and one firmer—which was great for me. The bathroom also had a separate washing area. I honestly wondered if this price was really okay.

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 at this accommodation last year and had a great experience, so I decided to stay again this year. The staff were kind, provided excellent service, and made my stay very comfortable. There was also a New Year's Eve event, which was enjoyable. I will definitely use this accommodation again next year.

I stayed in late April. The accommodation is in an excellent location right next to Sarusawa Pond, and during a morning walk, I saw deer quietly standing by, exuding a divine presence. Although my room this time was reasonably priced and did not have a view of the pond, the location was so wonderful that I would love to stay in a room with a pond view next time. The female staff at the front desk were very kind and shared local recommendations that only residents might know about, hidden spots to encounter deer, and information about wisteria flowers that were in full bloom. All the staff were attentive and pleasant, making my stay truly heartwarming. While the building shows some signs of age, it is well-maintained with a calm atmosphere. More than anything else, the warm hospitality of the staff left a lasting impression and contributed greatly to its comfort. Both dinner and breakfast featured carefully prepared seasonal dishes that were just right for our girls' trip—everything was delicious. I especially appreciated having Nara's signature tea porridge for breakfast. Afterward, enjoying coffee and chocolates in the lounge while reading books about Heijo Palace made for a peaceful moment. This accommodation allows you to feel both Nara's charm and people's warmth—a memorable place worth revisiting during another season!

I was able to stay at a very affordable price. It was even better because it included breakfast and was inexpensive. I was also surprised by the wide variety of breakfast options to choose from. The Facilities were well equipped, and I was especially impressed by the ReFa hair dryer. I would like to stay here again. Thank you very much.

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

My wife and I stayed in a Room with lounge access. The Room was clean and comfortable. The lounge was cozy, and the staff were very pleasant. Great value for money. This was our second stay, and we’d like to make it our regular Accommodation in Nara.

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.