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.

This international luxury hotel is the perfect choice for your Nara getaway! Featuring 158 elegantly decorated rooms, including 16 suites, all equipped with modern amenities. Enjoy diverse dining options at the multi-concept food theater "Silk Road Restaurant" or savor authentic Japanese cuisine at "Azekura". Unwind at the 24-hour fitness center, take a dip in the indoor pool, or pamper yourself at the luxurious spa. Upgrade your room for executive lounge privileges, including concierge services and private meeting rooms. Whether for family trips or business travel, the hotel offers everything you need, from kids' play areas to wedding services, making it a truly comprehensive stay.

Yearning for an authentic Japanese retreat? This is the perfect pick! Walk barefoot on wooden floors and unwind in tatami spaces, with rooms featuring warm minimalist wood tones. The natural hot spring and sauna will melt your stress away. Superbly located – just 1 minute walk from JR Nara Station, and 75 minutes from Osaka Airport. With great value, unique style, and Chinese signage, it’s hassle-free bliss!


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

This is easily one of the best hotels in Nara town. The atmosphere is peaceful and elegant, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome. From the moment we arrived, everything was seamless—friendly service, clean rooms, and a lovely ambiance. The breakfast spread was already quite good, but it could be even better with a wider variety of hot dishes and more local specialties. Still, it's a standout choice for anyone visiting Nara. Comfortable, well-located, and truly memorable. I’d definitely stay here again.

I've stayed at this property multiple times now, and each visit has been absolutely fantastic. The staff are incredibly attentive and genuinely care about guest comfort—friendly, helpful, and always with a smile. The atmosphere is peaceful and clean, with rooms that feel cozy and well-maintained. The natural hot spring bath is a standout feature—rich, mineral-filled water that leaves your skin feeling refreshed and relaxed. After soaking, they offer complimentary shaved ice and access to massage chairs, which was such a nice touch. In the evening, they even provide free ramen and drinks—perfect for unwinding after a long day. Location-wise, it's unbeatable: just a 1-minute walk to the train station, and there's convenient parking nearby. Whether you're traveling by train or driving, getting here is easy. I’ve already recommended this hotel to friends and will definitely be returning. A truly memorable stay.

Staying at Hotel Hanakomichi was a fantastic experience. Located just steps from Nara Station, it’s incredibly convenient for getting around the city and visiting nearby attractions. The area is bustling with great dining options and local shops—perfect for exploring on foot. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches that made the stay feel personal. Staff were friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive vibe. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who value location, convenience, and a cozy atmosphere. I’d definitely stay here again if I return to Nara.

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 Kotonoyado Musashino was an absolute delight—perfectly located right in the heart of Nara Park, making it incredibly easy to explore the surrounding area on foot. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service, creating a truly welcoming atmosphere. One of the highlights? The private onsen—after a long day of wandering through the park and visiting temples, soaking in the hot spring was pure bliss. The room was clean, quiet, and beautifully designed with traditional Japanese touches. It’s rare to find such a peaceful retreat with such high-quality amenities. I’d highly recommend this gem for anyone looking to experience authentic Japanese hospitality in a serene setting. Would definitely stay here again.

Staying at this ryokan was an absolute highlight of our trip to Nara. The location is perfect—just a short walk from Nara Park and surrounded by quiet, traditional streets. The building itself feels like stepping back in time, with beautiful wooden details and a serene atmosphere. We loved the public sento on the premises—it’s beautifully designed and so relaxing to soak in. Our private tub in the room was equally wonderful, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, even surprising us with a small thoughtful gift upon arrival. And the food? Unforgettable. The dinner and breakfast were exceptional—fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. If you're looking for a truly special and authentic Japanese experience, this is the place to book. Don’t hesitate—this is one of those rare stays you’ll remember forever.

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 this serene hotel nestled on Mount Wakakusa was an absolute retreat from the hustle and bustle. The free shuttle from JR Nara Station makes access super easy—just call ahead to arrange your pickup. We booked a stay with two meals, and dining as dusk settled in was such a peaceful experience, sipping wine and enjoying thoughtful dishes. In the evening, a complimentary minibus takes guests up to the summit for stargazing and breathtaking night views. Back at the hotel, we gathered in the lobby to roast marshmallows by the fire—my kids absolutely loved it. The rooftop open-air private hot tub is a highlight; you choose your preferred time during check-in, then simply head to your assigned room with your key card. The lobby also has a great selection of board games and toys, which kept the little ones entertained while we sorted out meal preferences and hot tub bookings. Everything feels so thoughtfully designed, with a quiet elegance that truly stands out. This place deserves every single point—it’s a perfect blend of comfort, charm, and tranquility.

Staying at Kasuga Hotel in Nara was an absolute delight! The room was spacious with three beds and plenty of floor space—definitely worth the premium price. The traditional Japanese tatami flooring added such a calming, authentic vibe. Two air conditioners kept the room perfectly comfortable, and the view from the window was serene, with lush greenery just outside. One of the highlights? The shared onsen—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. They even provide free yukata and geta sandals that you can wear outside, which made strolling around town so much fun. And yes, there’s a leg massager in the room—great for relieving tired legs after long walks. Everything about this place feels thoughtfully designed, blending comfort, culture, and convenience. If you're visiting Nara, this is definitely a top choice.

Staying at Hotel New Wakasa was an absolute delight. The kids absolutely loved experiencing the traditional Japanese tatami room—it felt so authentic and cozy. What really stood out was having our own private outdoor onsen, perfect for relaxing in a serene, intimate setting. The rooftop view is breathtaking—panoramic vistas of Nara Park, especially stunning during sunset. And don’t miss the complimentary matcha tea—it’s rich, smooth, and deliciously refreshing. The hotel is just a 3-minute walk from Tōdai-ji Temple, making it ideal for exploring the park in autumn when the foliage turns golden and crimson. It’s one of the most beautiful times to visit Nara, and being so close to the temple made everything even more magical. This place offers incredible value and charm—definitely a top pick if you’re visiting Nara.

Staying at Smile Hotel Nara was an absolute delight. Located just a 5-minute walk from JR Nara Station, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city and nearby attractions. The area around the hotel is packed with great dining options—so many choices that you’ll want to try them all! What stood out most was how thoughtful the staff were: they posted helpful guides on local restaurants and must-visit spots right in the lobby, making it easy to plan your days without any hassle. Clean rooms, friendly service, and a perfect location make this hotel a top choice for anyone visiting Nara. I’d definitely stay here again.

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.
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