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Nara, Japan, is a city that locates ancient history with serene natural beauty. As Japan's first permanent capital, Nara is home to stunning temples, including the iconic Todai-ji, housing the Great Buddha. A unique location, that couldn´t be more suitable for the 5-star property Shisui Nara Hotel, which effortlessly combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary luxury..
Wandering around the scenery of Shisui Nara Hotel, transports one into a different world. Arriving near Nara Park from, a crowded and bustled place, I found myself in harmony and tranquil ambiance, as soon as I entered the Shisui Nara hotel. The hotel's prime location, surrounded by lush greenery and historic temples, creates an environment of harmonious serenity.
The hotel's main building, which was renovated from the Nara Prefectural Governor's Building built in the Taisho era (1912-1926), provides guests with a unique opportunity to take a glimpse of Japanese history. The exterior seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, featuring traditional Japanese elements such as wooden beams, shoji screens, and stone pathways.
The interior design is equally impressive, characterized by minimalist elegance and sophistication. The use of natural materials, like wood and stone, fosters a calming and inviting atmosphere. Every detail, from the meticulously chosen furnishings to the ambient lighting, has been thoughtfully curated to enhance the guest experience but also to remain the given structures of the actual building and preserving its rich history.
The accommodations at Shisui Nara Hotel combine luxury and artistic Japanese design. I stayed in a “Deluxe King Open Air Onsen” room. The spacious room featured a garden view. A standout feature of the room was the traditional Japanese bath. Wooden elements and authentic décor spread a unique charm.
The Shisui Hotel Nara offers a full package of experiences. From evolving yourself in the rich culture of the building, it also perfectly rounds up one´s stay with a selection of culinary delights. A Feast for the senses. As the hotel spreads a feeling of traveling through time, also the Dining experience shares a feeling of a culinary journey.
The hotel's restaurant, offers a seasonal menu featuring dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, each prepared to highlight the essence of Japanese cuisine. I experienced a multi-course dinner that showcased the chef's skills and creativity, even in view on a plant-based diet. Each dish was an artistic creation, beautifully presented and rich in flavor.
At Shisui Hotel Nara, the focus is based on local goods, which gives guests an authentic experience into the Japanese lifestyle. Breakfast was equally impressive, with a traditional Japanese set meal that included steamed rice, miso soup, tofu variations, pickles, and various small side dishes. The meticulous attention to detail and use of local, fresh, high-quality ingredients made each meal memorable, along with its elegant presentation.
The hotel's spa offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional Japanese healing practices. The spa offers highlights full-body massages and relaxation to singing bowl meditations, along with other treatments to select from. It also features a beautiful onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. The onsen is set in a tranquil outdoor garden, allowing guests to connect with nature while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. A local herb brand is used for the treatments, which underlines the strong connection of Japanese traditions becoming alive as Shisui Nara.
Shisui Nara Hotel's prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring Nara's historical and cultural treasures. During my stay, I visited several iconic sites, including the renowned Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park. Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses the Great Buddha Hall, home to one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues. The statue's sheer size and grandeur were awe-inspiring, and the temple grounds were equally impressive, featuring beautiful gardens and historic structures.
Nara Park, just a short walk from the hotel, is famous for its friendly deer, which roam freely throughout the park. Interacting with these gentle creatures was a delightful experience, and the park itself is a serene oasis of greenery and tranquility.
Shisui Nara Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel that opened at the end of 2023, offers a 5-star experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern luxury. My stay at this remarkable hotel allowed me to immerse myself in the beauty, tranquility, and rich cultural heritage of Nara. The hotel’s exquisite architecture, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable service create a serene and elegant atmosphere.
I would also like to highlight a special offer that I experienced during my travels in Japan. Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Kyoto, and Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Nara, offer the exclusive “Discover Japan’s Ancient Capitals – Kyoto & Nara” 4-night stay package. All information can be found on their website.