Novotel Nara: A Contemporary Oasis in an Ancient City

Novotel Nara

Novotel has announced the opening of Novotel Nara. The hotel is located along the Saho River, which is renowned for its stunning cherry blossom trees. It is strategically situated an eight-minute walk from Shin-Omiya Station and a five-minute cab ride from Nara Station. This makes it a peaceful and convenient base for exploring Nara's rich cultural heritage.

Novotel Nara offers 264 guest rooms, including executive suites. Its design blends European modernity with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The hotel aims to provide a peaceful environment for both business and leisure travellers to relax and explore Nara's rich cultural and historical legacy.

Novotel Nara is more than just a place to stay. It connects tourists with the local community and highlights the hidden charms of Nara. Guests can easily visit the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, while also enjoying the peace away from the city's busyness. The hotel’s excellent location allows for an immersive experience of Nara’s history and culture, making it an ideal place for those seeking relaxation and exploration.

The property has various dining options, including Trattoria Ponte Nara, a restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients from Nara. The restaurant is committed to sustainability and offers organic and locally sourced dishes, including pizzas made with spelt flour produced in Nara Prefecture. During spring, guests can enjoy the open-air setting with a beautiful view of cherry blossoms.

The Social Lounge is a space where guests and locals can enjoy tea with family and friends. It offers an atmosphere for relaxation and socializing, allowing visitors to experience the warmth of Nara’s local culture. The lounge is ideal for taking a break, enjoying a selection of teas and light snacks, and having conversations.

The Rooftop Terrace on the eighth floor offers views of cherry blossoms along the Saho River in spring and the Wakakusa Yamayaki fire in the winter. Guests can enjoy seasonal activities and drinks, making it a spot for memorable evenings. 

Novotel Nara has conference facilities and two banquet rooms, making it an ideal choice for regional meetings and events. The hotel's flexible spaces can accommodate different types of functions, from corporate meetings to social gatherings, with support from technology and a dedicated team of event professionals.

Novotel Nara focuses on wellness with various facilities, including a fitness centre, a public bath, and soul and a wellness lounge with a children’s area for families to relax and enjoy quality time. The hotel's entrance area, decorated with a Japanese garden and Nara's traditional crafts, enhances the peaceful atmosphere, providing a complete wellness experience for all guests.

Novotel Nara is committed to protecting and restoring the planet’s oceans through the Novotel Oceans Initiative, a partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). They have a comprehensive three-year plan to reduce plastic and carbon footprints, promote sustainable food choices, and raise awareness about ocean conservation. The initiative includes using eco-friendly systems and locally sourced, organic ingredients in its dining outlets and supporting local conservation efforts. Novotel Nara aims to create a stronger bond between guests and the environment, demonstrating their dedication to positively impacting people and the planet.

"We are excited to welcome guests to Novotel Nara, where they can experience both the serenity of Nara and the modern comfort that Novotel offers," said Makoto Kaita, General Manager of Novotel Nara. "Our commitment to sustainability, local engagement, and exceptional service will ensure a memorable stay for all visitors, whether they are here for business or leisure."

Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer of Accor’s Premium, Midscale, and Economy Division in Asia, expressed his enthusiasm for the new opening: "The opening of Novotel Nara marks a significant milestone for Accor as we continue to expand our footprint in Japan, a country with a rich heritage and a growing demand for quality accommodations. With its historical significance and cultural depth, Nara is an ideal location for Novotel to provide an experience combining modern comfort with a deep respect for local traditions. This opening underscores our commitment to contributing to the growth of Japan's tourism sector and offering memorable stays to travellers from around the world."

Novotel is a featured brand in ALL—Accor Live Limitless, Accor's lifestyle loyalty program. Guests staying or dining at the hotel can enjoy many rewards, services, and limitless experiences. Becoming a member is easy and free of charge.