JW MARRIOTT HOTEL NARA

Japan

To live like royalty in Nara, one can’t get closer – literally – than a stay at this JW Marriott Hotel. The property is located a stone’s throw from Heijo Palace, once the place of residence of the emperor when the city served as Japan’s capital between 710 and 794. In addition, the 158-room hotel is probably the most comfortable accommodation Nara has to offer, since Marriott claims it’s the first international luxury hotel chain to make a foray into the city. An indoor swimming pool, 24-hour fitness centre and toiletries from British brand Aromatherapy Associates complete the experience. Silk Road Dining, the all-day dining venue, is a tribute to Nara’s ancient connections to the maritime silk road.

Above: Flying Stag Lobby Lounge is named after the deer that roams freely in Nara prefecture. Below: Silk Road Dining is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant.