Nara, the capital city of the Japanese prefecture of the same name, is located in southern Honshu. The city attracts those who wish to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the region, featuring ancient temples and age-old Japanese buildings.
Visit the renowned Shinto shrine, Kasuga Taisha, and the world’s oldest wooden building, Horyuji Temple, while here. Kōfuku-ji Temple, once owned by the powerful Fujiwara clan, is another must-visit attraction. It features the second-tallest wooden pagoda in Japan. The city also has treasures for nature lovers. Head to the centrally located Nara Park to meet some wild deer and feed them crackers. Later, stop by the nearby Isuien Garden and stroll along the beautiful scenery.
When in a city as ancient as Nara, it’s obligatory that you stay somewhere that reflects the city’s history and culture. For options, check out the top Shukubo stays in Nara, Japan.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 15, 2024.
1. 宿坊 れんじょう寺 奈良 Temple Stay Renjoji Nara (from USD 79)
Experience staying next to a quaint Buddhist temple at 宿坊 れんじょう寺 奈良 Temple Stay Renjoji Nara. This completely renovated holiday home occupies the back garden of the temple and provides a tranquil stay. Aside from tatami flooring, the quintessentially Japanese architecture and fully equipped kitchen will make you feel at home.
Spend your free time in the garden and meditate in the temple, which showcases various ancient Buddha statues. Moreover, a priest performs a morning ritual at the temple daily, in which you can participate to start your day right. If you wish to visit nearby temples, feel free to take a 23-minute walk or 10-minute drive to Todaiji Temple.
宿坊 れんじょう寺 奈良 Temple Stay Renjoji Nara
Address: 西紀寺町４５ 璉珹寺
16.4 km (10.2 mi) from Chogosonshi-ji
Nearby Shukubo stays
2. Shigisan Gyokuzoin
Shigisan Gyokuzoin is a 3-star property in Heguri, about 22.7 kilometers (14.11 miles) from Nara. This Shukubo offers fascinating cultural experiences such as ‘shakyo’ or the practice of tracing Buddhist scriptures. You will enjoy staying amidst monks in Japanese-style accommodations with tatami mats. With several temples within walking distance, you can truly savor a spiritual experience during your stay.
The property comes equipped with a parking space - available for a fee. While there is no restaurant on site, the vending machine will come in handy for your snacking needs. Additionally, there are several eateries nearby.
Shigisan Gyokuzoin
Address: 2280 Shigisan, Heguri-cho, Ikoma-gun, Heguri, Ikoma, Japan, 636-0923
143 meters (470.6 ft) from Chogosonshi-ji
3. Gyokuzoin (from USD 193)
Reasonable pricing for a unique temple stay experience with optional activities.
Spacious rooms, communal bath, and opportunities to join temple ceremonies and meditation sessions.
Set in a beautiful, serene mountain location with picturesque temple grounds and easy access to local attractions.
Delicious traditional Japanese meals, with vegetarian options, and the opportunity to participate in morning prayers and fire ceremonies.
Nestled in a serene temple compound, Gyokuzoin showcases traditional Japanese architecture and features such as tatami flooring. Choose between rooms featuring a shared or private bathroom, along with necessities such as free Wi-Fi. The property even provides authentic Japanese meals to guests in the banquet hall.
Start your day here by joining a Buddhist ritual performed at the temple and later, head to the public bath for a rejuvenating soak. The property organizes temporary art galleries to entertain guests. In addition, there is a souvenir shop on site where you can buy items for your friends back home.
Gyokuzoin
Address: Shigisan 2280
135 meters (442.6 ft) from Chogosonshi-ji
Have an enriching holiday in Nara
Nara’s ancient charm and beautiful temples attract culture enthusiasts from all over the world. Aside from letting visitors admire these temples from afar, the city even provides temple stays so you can immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. Pick your favorite Shukubo stay from this list and have an enriching holiday.
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