Spring in Nara brings a dreamy magic to the Kawaji Cherry Trees, where delicate pink blossoms hang like clouds above winding paths. The gentle breeze sends petals fluttering down, turning the air into a soft, fragrant dance—perfect for quiet strolls, heartfelt photos, or simply sitting still and letting nature soothe your soul. No crowds, just serenity. This is the kind of hidden gem that makes you fall in love with Nara all over again.

Planning a trip to Nara? This family-friendly accommodation is your perfect choice! Just 0.5km from Todai-ji Temple and 1km from Kasuga Taisha Shrine, it offers free private parking and a shared kitchen for your convenience. With three cozy bedrooms, a hot tub, and a kids’ play area, everyone in the family will have a great time. Plus, pick-up and drop-off services make transportation hassle-free. Book now for an unforgettable family getaway!



















Everything you need to know about Kawaji Cherry Trees
Near the Kawaji Cherry Trees in Nara, Nara Hilton Hotel is a top choice, offering a 10-minute walk to the blossoming trees and elegant Japanese-style rooms with modern comforts. The hotel also provides complimentary shuttle services to Nara Park and major attractions.
For a more authentic experience, consider staying at a traditional machiya guesthouse in Nara’s historic district, where guests can enjoy tatami rooms, seasonal kaiseki meals, and cultural activities like tea ceremonies. Public transport is convenient—take the Kintetsu Line from Osaka Namba to Nara Station (30 minutes), then transfer to a local bus or taxi. HopeGoo early during cherry blossom season is highly recommended to secure availability.
Take the Nara City Bus (Route 57) from Nara Station to "Kawaji Cherry Trees" stop—approximately 15 minutes. Buses run hourly from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Alternatively, a taxi takes about 8 minutes and costs ¥1,200–¥1,800.
For travelers who enjoy walking, it’s a pleasant 1.8 km stroll through the historic Nara-machi district, passing traditional wooden houses and small shops. Use apps like Google Maps or Japan Travel for real-time schedules and to avoid missing the last bus.
The Kawaji Cherry Trees bloom from late March to early April, with peak viewing typically between March 25 and April 5. During this period, delicate pink petals fall gently against ancient temple backdrops, creating a breathtaking scene.
Visit early morning or dusk for fewer crowds and soft natural lighting ideal for photography. Flower timing may shift by up to a week depending on weather; check real-time updates via the Nara Prefecture Tourism Website or the "Hanami Information" app. Night illumination events also enhance the serene beauty, adding a magical touch to your visit.
Beyond cherry blossom viewing, visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremony sessions in a historic temple garden, savoring matcha while learning etiquette. Kimono rental tours allow guests to stroll under the sakura in period attire, immersing in Edo-era charm.
Local workshops offer hands-on experiences like pottery and wood carving at Nara Craft Studios, perfect for families or couples. Weekend markets also feature regional specialties such as persimmon-leaf sushi, Nara soy sauce, and handmade sweets, enriching your journey with authentic local flavor.
See what other travelers say about Kawaji Cherry Trees

Staying at THE KAKU was an absolute delight! The traditional Japanese machiya design is beautifully preserved, yet the rooms are equipped with all the comforts of a luxury hotel—think plush bedding, modern amenities, and thoughtful touches throughout. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service, making us feel truly welcome. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—Nara Park is just a short walk away, perfect for morning deer encounters and exploring the historic area. There’s also a great selection of cafes and restaurants within easy reach, so dinner options are never an issue. I was lucky enough to be the first guest after renovation, which meant everything felt fresh, clean, and brand new. It’s rare to find such a unique stay with such high standards—my family and I will definitely return. Thank you for such a memorable experience!

Located just a short walk from Nara's charming town area, this little gem offers an exceptional stay. The property is spotless and meticulously clean—every detail reflects great attention to hygiene. The host, an elderly lady with warm hospitality, speaks excellent English and goes out of her way to make guests feel welcome. Her breakfast is a highlight: fresh, thoughtfully prepared, and generously served—perfectly balanced with local touches. The overall experience feels personal and authentic, far beyond what you'd expect at this price point. It’s clear that every aspect is cared for with genuine passion. A truly memorable stay in Nara, and I’d absolutely return without hesitation.

Staying at Hilo Hostel was such a pleasant surprise. Located just 100 meters from the train station, it’s incredibly convenient—right next to a 7-Eleven and a small supermarket, plus walking distance to a lively night market street packed with restaurants. The hostel is also close to Kasuga Grand Shrine, with several bus stops nearby for easy access to other attractions. What stood out most was the homely vibe—it felt like coming home. I bought a bento box from nearby and heated it up in the shared microwave; it was fresh and tasted surprisingly good. The owner went above and beyond by offering detailed directions, a local map, and even reminded me to bring an umbrella when it started raining. If you’re looking for a simple, authentic Japanese experience without breaking the bank, this place is perfect. Friendly, clean, and thoughtfully run—highly recommend!.

Staying at Nara Guesthouse Kamunabi was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk or quick transit ride away from major attractions like Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple. I appreciated the thoughtful touch of earplugs available for purchase at the front desk; if you're sensitive to noise, it's a small but super helpful addition. For those traveling by car, there’s a nearby paid parking lot that makes self-driving incredibly convenient. The room was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with friendly and helpful staff who made our stay feel truly welcoming. Everything about this guesthouse—from the practical amenities to the prime location—earned every bit of the 10/10 rating. If you're visiting Nara, this is definitely a top pick for comfort, convenience, and value.

The hotel is spotless and incredibly clean, with a prime location just a short, relaxing walk from Nara Park—perfect for spotting the friendly deer without feeling rushed. I received my room number and access code in advance, making check-in seamless and stress-free. The common areas are quiet and peaceful, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed—from the efficient service to the serene atmosphere. A truly memorable experience with excellent value. Highly recommended!

Staying at Nara Visitor Center and Inn was an absolute delight! The room featured traditional Japanese tatami flooring, which gave it a genuine cultural charm—though a bit snug for our family of four, everything we needed was there: a fridge, private bathroom with sink, and access to a spacious shared bath. What made the experience truly special was waking up to see deer strolling around the garden just outside the window—so peaceful and magical. The location is excellent too, just a short walk from major attractions, making it super convenient for exploring Nara. With its authentic vibe, thoughtful amenities, and unforgettable morning views, this place offers incredible value. I’d definitely come back again.

Staying at Guesthouse Naramachi was an absolute delight. The host, a kind elderly gentleman, greeted us with warm hospitality and genuine Japanese charm. The guesthouse itself is a beautifully preserved century-old traditional Japanese villa, filled with authentic atmosphere and thoughtful details. Every corner felt lived-in yet immaculately clean—beds were cozy, the space was quiet and serene, and the overall vibe was incredibly homely. On arrival day, the host was so considerate—he noticed we might miss the chance to visit Nara Park and even offered to drive us there to see the friendly deer! That small gesture made our trip feel truly special. The location is peaceful yet convenient, and the attention to detail throughout the stay exceeded expectations. This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a memorable experience. I’d absolutely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Nara.

Staying at The Deer Park Inn was an absolute delight. Located just a short walk from Kofuku-ji Temple and Mount Yoshino, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature—deer wander freely right outside the door, making every morning feel magical. While the property has shared bathrooms, cleanliness is excellent, with no signs of neglect or unpleasant odors. One highlight? A great discount for breakfast at a nearby local eatery—perfect for grabbing a traditional Japanese meal without breaking the bank. The cozy atmosphere, thoughtful touches, and unbeatable location make this a standout choice. I’d happily return and highly recommend it to travelers seeking a quiet, authentic experience in Nara.

Staying at Hotel Pagoda was an absolute delight! The room was spotlessly clean and incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. What truly stood out was the balcony with a peaceful view—every morning I could see deer wandering casually nearby, which felt like a magical little moment in nature. The hotel is just a short walk from Nara Park, so exploring the famous deer-filled grounds was super convenient. It’s also well-located between Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station, giving easy access to public transit whether you're heading to temples, shopping, or other attractions. The staff were friendly, the atmosphere was serene, and everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed. If you're visiting Nara, this is definitely a top choice.

I had an amazing one-night stay at this guesthouse and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The room was just the right size—not too small, not too cramped—perfectly cozy and well-designed. The bed and pillows were absolutely fantastic, making for a restful night’s sleep. The place is super clean, quiet, and located in a great spot: walking distance to Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, with plenty of local eateries nearby. It’s such a gem in the heart of Nara, offering comfort and convenience without the high price tag. I’ll definitely be coming back again—highly recommend this hidden treasure!

Located in a quiet alleyway within Naramachi, this guesthouse isn’t immediately visible from the street, but it’s just a 15-minute walk from Nara Station—quite convenient for those who don’t mind a short stroll. I tried taking the bus once, but waiting time ended up longer than walking, so I stuck with foot travel and found it more efficient. The check-in and check-out process is fully self-service, which adds to the ease of the stay. After checking out, you can leave your luggage at the front desk, though please note that the hotel isn’t responsible if anything gets misplaced or taken by mistake. Overall, I’m very satisfied—the location, atmosphere, and value for money are excellent. That said, since it’s a traditional wooden building, the walls are made of thin wood panels, so sound insulation isn’t great. You can clearly hear conversations from neighboring rooms, especially if you’re sensitive to noise. However, they do provide free earplugs, which is a thoughtful touch and helps a lot. For travelers looking for an authentic local vibe with a bit of charm, this place is definitely worth considering.

This guesthouse in Nara is truly authentic and beautifully designed, with a stunning view of the traditional garden that instantly calms the mind after a busy day in Osaka. The peaceful, quiet atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding. The only minor surprise was spotting a single large cockroach—though expected in an older wooden building, especially one with such character. What stood out was how well-prepared the staff were: they provided pest control measures, and the cleanliness was impeccable throughout. No complaints at all—just be ready to share your space with some tiny local residents. Overall, this place offers a genuine, cozy experience with excellent value and charm.
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