Japan's Grand Meiji-Era Hotel Is Back - And This Summer Is Unlike Any Other
- Written by: Wemmy Chau
This summer, travelers have a rare opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most iconic historic hotels in a way that hasn’t been possible for over four decades. Often called the “Guest House of Kansai,” Nara Hotel has welcomed distinguished guests for more than a century. Following an extensive five-month renovation, the hotel is set to reopen on June 4, 2026.
For a limited three-month period before the West Wing reopens on September 2, guests will be able to stay exclusively in the hotel’s original Main Building, designed by renowned architect Kingo Tatsuno. Immersed in elegant Meiji-era architecture and timeless atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a uniquely nostalgic stay that feels like stepping back in time.
To celebrate the reopening, Nara Hotel is also offering a limited-time commemorative lunch and a sophisticated afternoon tea experience. Whether you’re planning an overnight stay or simply visiting for the day, this is a wonderful chance to enjoy a memorable summer at one of Nara’s most treasured landmarks.
(Photo: JR West Hotels Development Co., Ltd. / Nara Hotel)
(This article contains affiliate links.)
A Once-in-42-Years Chance: Experience the Romance of Japan’s Meiji Era

Since opening in 1909, Nara Hotel has been known as the “Guest House of Kansai,” welcoming everyone from royalty to world leaders. Designed by renowned architect Kingo Tatsuno, the hotel’s historic Main Building blends traditional Japanese Momoyama-style influences with elegant Western touches, creating an atmosphere that captures the grandeur and sophistication of the Meiji era.
With renovation work on the West Wing continuing until September 2, the hotel is currently operating exclusively from its Main Building for the first time in 42 years. For a limited three-month period, visitors can enjoy a quieter, more intimate look at the hotel's architectural treasures, from its soaring ceilings and grand red-carpet staircase to its vintage lighting and beautifully preserved wooden interiors. It's a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience one of Japan’s most iconic historic hotels at its most atmospheric.

Limited-Time Celebration: Special Main Building Reopening Offers (June 5 – August 31, 2026)

To mark this rare chapter in the hotel's history, Nara Hotel is offering a selection of limited-time dining experiences available only during the Main Building reopening period. Whether you're staying overnight or simply visiting for the day, these special menus provide a delicious way to join in the celebration and experience the charm of this historic hotel.
Main Building Reopening Commemorative Lunch (Main Dining Room Mikasa)

Enjoy a specially crafted lunch by the hotel's chef in the elegant, old-world surroundings of Main Dining Room Mikasa. As part of this limited-time experience, guests will also receive an exclusive commemorative gift to take home as a keepsake of their visit.

・Available: 11:30 AM–3 PM (last order 2 PM)
・Location: Main Dining Room Mikasa
・Price: 8,000 yen per person
・Special Perk: Guests who reserve the commemorative lunch course will receive a complimentary can of Nara Hotel’s signature Classic Curry, a beloved hotel specialty you can enjoy at home.
Main Building Reopening Commemorative High Tea (The Bar)

Forget the traditional afternoon tea. This luxurious evening High Tea experience is served after dark, inviting guests to unwind with elegant food and drinks in the timeless atmosphere of The Bar.

・Available: 6 PM–8 PM (last order 7:30 PM)
・Location: The Bar
・Price: 8,500 yen on weekdays; 9,000 yen on weekends and public holidays; 9,500 yen during the Obon holiday period (August 8–16)
・What's Included: A selection of elegant dishes plus 120 minutes of all-you-can-drink beverages, including the hotel's original cocktails and other specialty drinks (last drink order 30 minutes before the end of the session).
Important Notes
・All prices listed above include service charges and consumption tax.
・Promotional photos are for illustrative purposes only. Actual menu items and presentation may vary.
Make the Most of This Rare Summer Opportunity
This special three-month, Main Building-only operating period is a rare chance to experience one of Japan's most storied hotels in a way few visitors have seen in decades. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking to enjoy exceptional Japanese hospitality, there's never been a better time to visit.
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Nara Hotel奈良ホテル- Address 1096 Takabatakecho, Nara-shi, Nara View Map
- Original source: Rakuten Travel
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LIVE JAPAN
Originally from Hong Kong, she graduated from university with a degree in English and Japanese before moving to Chiba, Japan, in 2015. With her 10 years of experience living in Japan, she excels at discovering unique, off-the-beaten-path information that you won't find in typical travel guides. Specializing in art, seasonal scenery, and theme parks, she provides the latest and most useful travel information. She has experience writing for major travel media outlets and regional tourism websites and has also obtained JLPT Level 1 certification. She hopes to offer reliable travel information from a unique Hong Kong perspective.
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*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
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