Novotel proudly unveils its newest property—Novotel Nara, nestled along the picturesque Saho River, famous for its cherry blossom trees. Just an eight-minute walk from Shin-Omiya Station and a five-minute cab ride from Nara Station, the hotel offers a serene base for exploring Nara’s rich cultural heritage.
With 264 guest rooms, including executive suites, Novotel Nara perfectly blends European modernity with traditional Japanese aesthetics, providing a relaxing retreat for both business and leisure travelers. This unique combination allows guests to rejuvenate while staying connected to the historical and cultural treasures of Nara, such as the UNESCO World Heritage sites Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Novotel Nara serves as more than just a hotel—it’s a gateway to the hidden charms of Nara, inviting visitors to explore while offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city. For those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion, the hotel’s prime location ensures a seamless balance.
Culinary Delights with a Local Touch
At Trattoria Ponte Nara, guests can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine with a local twist. This all-day dining restaurant embraces the “slow food” philosophy, using locally sourced ingredients from Nara. During spring, diners can enjoy their meals in the open-air setting, surrounded by cherry blossoms. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability shines through with dishes like pizzas made from spelt flour, sourced from the Katsuragi Shuroku Council in Nara.
For a more casual setting, the Social Lounge offers a cozy space for guests and locals alike to relax, enjoy teatime, and experience the warmth of Nara’s community spirit. Light snacks, refreshing teas, and inviting conversations make this lounge a perfect retreat.
Breathtaking Views and Unwind on the Rooftop Terrace
On the eighth floor, the Rooftop Terrace provides guests with stunning views of the Saho River’s cherry blossoms in spring and the Wakakusa Yamayaki fire festival in winter. This space offers a memorable setting for seasonal activities and evening relaxation with a beverage in hand.
Modern Meetings and Wellness Focus
Equipped with modern conference facilities and two banquet rooms, Novotel Nara is set to become a leading venue for meetings and events. The hotel’s versatile spaces, paired with state-of-the-art technology, cater to corporate and social gatherings alike.
For those seeking relaxation, Novotel Nara emphasizes wellness with a fully equipped fitness center, a large public bath, and a wellness lounge designed for families. The tranquil setting, complete with a Japanese garden and traditional Nara crafts, enhances the hotel’s calming atmosphere.
Commitment to Sustainability and Positive Impact
Aligned with Novotel’s global sustainability efforts, Novotel Nara proudly participates in the Novotel Oceans Initiative in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Through the Positive Impact Plan, the hotel focuses on reducing plastic use, lowering its carbon footprint, and supporting ocean conservation. The hotel’s eco-friendly systems and locally sourced, organic dining options reflect its commitment to both the environment and the community.
As part of Accor’s lifestyle loyalty program, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, guests can enjoy exclusive rewards and limitless experiences when staying or dining at Novotel Nara.
I’ve been to quite a few brunch spots in the city, but this one really stood out. The atmosphere was relaxed and cozy, which made it the perfect spot for a chill weekend brunch. I went with the veggie omelet, and it was packed with fresh ingredients, cooked to perfection, and so flavorful. My partner tried the pancakes, and they were fluffy, light, and just the right amount of sweet. The coffee was fresh, the cocktails were well-crafted, and the service was friendly and efficient. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back, enjoy a good meal, and feel right at home. If you’re on the hunt for a new brunch spot, I definitely recommend checking out their menu here: White Horse Tavern menu.