Hotel Obana

The room had a lovely view, and after a day out exploring, the comfortable beds and well-equipped bathroom were just what we needed. The hotel is spotless and welcoming, with tasteful decor, lots of books in a library-like space, and a high-end restaurant downstairs. It’s only two blocks from the edge of Nara Deer Park and close to the bars and restaurants. We’d happily stay again.

I especially liked the breakfast, with both Japanese and Western choices. The hotel is near central Nara, so temples and shopping are easy to reach. Our room and bathroom were clean and roomy enough, and the price felt fair for what we got, though that can depend on the season. The staff were kind and easy to talk to, and the hotel was really comfortable. If you’re looking for a traditional Japanese-style stay, though, this might not quite suit you.

The staff seemed to be trying to offer good service, but the hotel itself felt like a pretty ordinary older place. It’s handy for nearby temples, and Starbucks is close by. Around here, most other cafes don’t open until 10 or 11, while Starbucks is open in the morning. The room was tiny, the bed cover had stains, and the towel was very thin. The dryer was so weak that laundry took ages, and there was no coin exchange machine in the laundry area. The hotel isn’t close to the stations, and there’s no convenience store nearby.

There’s free parking right beside this welcoming hotel. The Japanese buffet breakfast costs 1510 Yen per adult, with children paying half. Nara park, the deer park, temples and Taisha are all very close.