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The Kodaiji Pond is pure serenity on a silver platter—mist curls above still waters, willow branches dip like brushstrokes, and ducks glide silently across reflections of sky and tree. Sit on the weathered stone bench, close your eyes, and let the gentle ripples, distant temple bells, and rustling leaves wash over you. It’s not a photo spot—it’s a sanctuary for the spirit.
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.
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 Kodaiji Pond
The top choice near Kodaiji Pond in Nara is the Nara Hilton Hotel, just a 10-minute walk away. This hotel blends modern comfort with traditional Japanese aesthetics, offering serene views of Mount Wakakusa and nearby Kasuga Grand Shrine from select rooms. Its tranquil garden and tea ceremony room provide an authentic wabi-sabi experience. The hotel also offers free shuttle service to major attractions like Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple, making it ideal for travelers seeking both convenience and cultural immersion in historic Nara.
The most convenient way to reach Kodaiji Pond is by taking the Kintetsu Nara Line to Nara Station, then transferring to a local bus or walking about 15 minutes. From downtown Nara, take the Nara City Bus heading toward Kasuga Grand Shrine and alight at "Kodaiji-mae" stop—just a 2-minute walk. Alternatively, renting a bicycle allows you to follow the scenic Ancient Nara Trail, passing through Heian-era ruins and autumn-colored maple trees, perfect for capturing the tranquil beauty of the region.
Visitors to Kodaiji Pond can savor the serene beauty of early morning or golden hour walks along the pond’s edge, where reflections of ancient temple rooftops and a thousand-year-old ginkgo tree create a living ink painting. The stone meditation seats invite quiet contemplation, embodying Zen philosophy. During autumn, the ginkgo trees blaze gold, drawing photographers eager to capture the interplay of light and shadow. The adjacent Kodaiji Temple Main Hall hosts regular tea ceremonies and incense rituals, offering guests hands-on experience with traditional Japanese etiquette and insight into this site’s significance as a Heian-era Buddhist retreat.
Staying near Kodaiji Pond, you can walk or bike to Nara Park in just 15 minutes through peaceful residential lanes and shaded pathways, immersing yourself in Nara’s ancient atmosphere early on. To reach Kasuga Grand Shrine, take a Nara City Bus to "Kasuga Grand Shrine Mae" stop—only a 10-minute ride. Both sites lie within the Historic Nara Cultural Corridor. Plan a full-day itinerary: visit Kasuga’s vermilion torii gates and centuries-old stone lanterns in the morning, stroll through Nara Park to interact with friendly deer in the afternoon, then return to Kodaiji Pond at dusk to witness the sunset reflecting on the still waters—perfectly capturing the spirit of Japan’s oldest capital.
See what other travelers say about Kodaiji Pond
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.
Staying at Kamenoi Hotel Nara was an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is truly authentic and calming, with a perfect blend of traditional Japanese elegance and modern comfort. The kaiseki dinner was exceptional—each course beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, showcasing the chef's artistry. Breakfast was equally impressive, featuring fresh local ingredients and thoughtful variety. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service—always smiling, genuinely helpful, and respectful of privacy. They made us feel welcome without being intrusive. From the moment we arrived to the last goodbye, every detail felt carefully curated. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a memorable journey into Japanese hospitality. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Nara.
Staying at Nara Park Hotel was a delightful experience from start to finish. The front desk staff were incredibly warm and welcoming—greeted us with genuine smiles and went above and beyond to ensure we felt comfortable. Whether it was check-in assistance or local recommendations, their attention to detail made all the difference. The hotel’s location is perfect: just a short walk or quick subway ride away from Nara Park, surrounded by charming shops and restaurants. The room was clean, quiet, and well-appointed, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. With such excellent service and convenient access to everything, this place offers incredible value. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Nara—it’s more than just a stay; it’s a memorable part of the journey.
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.
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