BLEND OF OLD AND NEW
We stayed at Shisui, a Luxury Hotel Collection, Nara (part of the Marriott Bonvoy group) that offers a unique and exclusive experience set amidst the tranquil surroundings of the western edge of Nara Park. It is a new hotel which opened in August 2023. It kept the residence of the governor of Nara between 1922 and 2017 to function as the main lobby and restaurant. You can see the preserved room where the Emperor of Japan signed the San Francisco treaty after World War II, when he stayed on the property. The guest rooms are in a new modern building where they were designed by the world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma.
THE HOTEL EXPERIENCE
Upon arrival for check-in, tea is served at the main lobby where you can admire the old-style architecture. Then you are guided to the newer section where the guest rooms overlook an enclosed garden.
Guest rooms
Nestled within the historic confines of the lobby and restaurant, this locale seamlessly marries tradition with modern allure. A mere stone’s throw away lies an architectural building crafted by the renowned architect, Kuma Kengo, housing exquisite guest rooms.
The epitome of luxury, the “deluxe type” rooms boast private onsens, sourced directly from the soothing hot springs of Kyoto. It’s an elegant fusion of heritage and contemporary sophistication.
Champagne all you can drink: Garden delight
One word of caution: the hotel promised a complimentary champagne happy hour in the old wing overlooking the beautiful garden but when we arrived a little after the designated 5:00 pm the place was already full and we were directed back to the main lobby where they served the champagne. It was a disappointment since we were looking forward to enjoying drinks with a view of the garden. This service named Garden Delight is free of charge for staying guests.
Restaurant Suiyou
After the champagne we dined at the hotel restaurant Suiyou where they serve exquisite French food with local Nara ingredients – a great fusion!
Also, you can have breakfast at Suiyou.
SO CONVENIENT TO WALK AROUND AND EXPLORE TEMPLES AND SHRINES
The hotel is a good choice if you want to have a luxury hotel experience with a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern comforts. We also chose the hotel for its convenient location. It is walking distance from the World Heritage sites such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple and of course the lush green Nara Park with the friendly deer roaming around. You can hop in and out of the hotel to visit and explore these must-see sites at your pace.
Refer to link below for exploring Nara.
Since Nara is a short distance, less than an hour, from Kyoto many tourists choose to make Nara a day-trip from Kyoto. But if you want a more leisurely experience, staying at this hotel overnight will make your Nara stay a very special one. Shisui is a truly exceptional hotel that epitomizes the essence of luxury, Japanese culture and tradition in Nara.
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