Nestled on the western edge of Nara Park, one of Japan’s most famous scenic spots, is Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara. The Yoshikien area where our Nara luxury hotel is located is surrounded by World Heritage Sites such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple, and has been protected by efforts to maintain the area’s lush greenery to ensure a scenic and serene environment. The name of our 5-star hotel in Nara, Japan, derives from the “purple trunk and green leaves (Shikan Suiyou)” – scenic vistas that have been cherished in Nara since ancient times. Just like the name, guests can indulge in the history and traditions of the city when staying at our heritage hotel in Nara, as well as the mystical flow of time that surrounds it.
"Checking in can take a while, as the butler asks quite a few detailed questions and then gives a thorough introduction to the building and its various areas. Some staff members have good English, others not so much, which can sometimes make understanding difficult, but it doesn't significantly impact the overall experience.
The breakfast is exquisite. During the tail end of the Golden Week holiday, we had to queue for a table. The Japanese grilled fish was delicious, but other dishes were just okay. The Western options were decent and quite plentiful. The room was clean and tidy, and on our last day, we even saw deer chasing and playing in the courtyard.
The hotel has a distinct resort vibe, and Kengo Kuma's design features many highlights. It's a tranquil oasis in a bustling area, and the courtyard is beautifully maintained. Most guests seemed to be older, well-established families, with fewer young people. (As a 'workhorse' who needed to get some work done in the evening, I found there were no power outlets near the desk for my laptop, which really drove home the point that everyone else was truly here to relax and enjoy their vacation).
Overall, I had a very pleasant and comfortable holiday. It's a beautiful hotel and definitely worth experiencing."