Toyoko Inn Kintetsu Nara Ekimae

This hotel is super convenient, right across from Kintetsu Nara Station. If you turn left out of the hotel and walk about 1.2 kilometers, you'll reach Nara Park, and you might even spot some deer wandering along the way!

The hotel is conveniently located right by the high-speed train station exit, making transportation very easy. The room was clean, and I really appreciated the ice machine on the first floor.

Unfortunately, I didn't realize I'd booked a smoking room, and there was a faint smell of smoke. However, the cleanliness was absolutely superb, and the room itself was spotless. The location is fantastic: it's directly opposite Kintetsu Nara Station, and Nara Park is just a 10-minute walk away. On the first floor, there are convenient vending machines and coin-operated washer/dryers. The breakfast was also quite delicious.

## Toyoko Inn Nara: An Ideal Gateway to Tang Dynasty Elegance and History Staying at Toyoko Inn Nara felt like embarking on a thousand-year journey into Tang Dynasty culture. The hotel's location is truly a prime hub: it's not only close to iconic ancient temples like Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji, but also incredibly convenient for visiting Toshodai-ji Temple and Yakushi-ji Temple. Just a short bus ride from the hotel takes you directly to these Buddhist sanctuaries, which bear the indelible marks of Sino-Japanese cultural exchange. Setting out from the hotel, the majestic grandeur of Toshodai-ji Temple is truly awe-inspiring. Designed by Master Jianzhen himself after his eastward journey, its architecture perfectly blends the imposing scale of Tang Dynasty buildings with Japanese aesthetics. Amidst its vermilion pillars and graceful bracket complexes, one can still faintly discern the enduring legacy of the prosperous Tang Dynasty. At Yakushi-ji Temple, the towering East Pagoda stands as Japan's oldest surviving three-story wooden pagoda. Its exquisitely intricate carvings tell tales of the glorious era when Buddhism first arrived in Japan. Nearby, the Heijo Palace Site, once the political heart of the Nara period, may now be reduced to ruins, but it still allows visitors to envision the bustling splendor of what was once known as 'Japan's Chang'an City'. Strolling through Nara's streets, one can clearly see the east-west symmetrical layout of a city meticulously modeled after Chang'an, the Tang Dynasty capital – almost like a code for time travel. The hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of this Tang-inspired ancient charm, offering both convenience for exploring and a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. The guest rooms are clean and tidy, with a minimalist yet cozy Japanese-style decor. After a tiring day, returning here to enjoy a cup of hot tea and relax on the tatami mat evokes a wonderful sense of comfort and relaxation. The hotel staff are warm and professional. They not only patiently answer questions in English but also thoughtfully provide transportation guidance between attractions. The surrounding izakayas (Japanese pubs) and convenience stores are also very convenient, making it exceptionally easy to savor Nara's famous Kakinoha-zushi (persimmon leaf sushi) or purchase souvenirs. For travelers eager to deeply experience Nara's Tang-inspired ancient charm and explore the lineage of Tang Dynasty Buddhist culture in Japan, Toyoko Inn Nara is undoubtedly an ideal choice. Here, history and modernity blend seamlessly; every outing becomes a cultural encounter, and every return offers the comfort of home.

The hotel's location is fantastic, right next to the subway station, making it incredibly easy to find upon exit. Just diagonally across from the hotel, there's a bustling shopping street, offering great convenience for dining and shopping. There's a bus stop right outside the hotel with direct service to Nara Park, allowing you to get off and leisurely explore the area. We booked a room including breakfast, which was a buffet. The front desk staff were also very friendly and welcoming. If you arrive early, you can even store your luggage with them and go explore before check-in.

Fantastic location and spotlessly clean. Breakfast offered coffee and bread. I especially loved this charming little town; it was so relaxing and comfortable.

While the room was compact, it was cleverly designed. It was spotlessly clean and beautifully kept, and Fou provided excellent service.