'Where ancient Japan meets modern luxury in the spiritual heart of the former imperial capital.'
What's Special?
This is Japan's first JW Marriott, uniquely positioned in Nara - the country's first permanent capital and birthplace of Japanese Buddhism. The hotel sits within walking distance of Todai-ji Temple, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, and Kasuga Taisha shrine with its 3,000 mystical stone lanterns. Nara's famous free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods, wander freely through the nearby Nara Park.
WhatAHotel! Pro-Tip: Visit Todai-ji Temple early morning to experience the Buddha statue in peaceful solitude, then purchase deer crackers to feed Nara's friendly deer population - they'll bow to you in thanks!
Don't Miss
The evening illumination of Kasuga Taisha's thousands of lanterns during Setsubun festival, and the nearby Kofuku-ji Temple's five-story pagoda - one of Japan's most photographed landmarks. Sample local kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf-wrapped sushi) and visit during autumn when Nara Park transforms into a golden wonderland.
Commentary Courtesy of Ai.