Nara Visitor Center & Inn / 奈良県外国人観光客交流館/ 猿沢イン

Nara Visitor Center & Inn / 奈良県外国人観光客交流館/ 猿沢イン Nara Visitor Center & Inn is located in the midst of Nara. Right on the edge of Sarusawa Pond, the location offers wonderful views of the changing seasons.
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Nara Visitor Center & Inn is located in the midst of Nara’s World Heritage sites, the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, and in the middle of the historic Naramachi district. Right on the edge of Sarusawa Pond, whose waters reflect the Five Storied Pagoda of Kofukuji Temple, the location offers wonderful views of the changing seasons. Nara Visitor Center & Inn provides tourists visiting Nara a gr

eat place to relax and interact along with the opportunity to discover and experience the city’s cultural and sightseeing riches. Use the space to rest or meet up with others while touring the city’s World Heritage sites, to take in a concert or try your hand at calligraphy, to experience a tea ceremony or Japan’s culinary culture, or to make use of an array of essential traveler services—we are here to help and make your trip as pleasant and deeply rewarding as possible.

나라현 사루사와 인은 나라의 세계유산과 고대의 역사문화재의 중심에 위치합니다.
또한 역사 깊은 ”나라마치”의 한가운데에서.
고후쿠지의 오중탑이 비치는 사루사와 연못의 바로 옆에 있어 변해가는 계절의 아름다운 경치를 즐길 수 있습니다.
나라현 사루사와 인은 나라를 방문하는 여행자에게 나라의 문화와 관광 자원을 발견하고 경험하기 위한 최적의 장소를 제공합니다.
여러분은 나라의 세계유산을 산책하는 중에 이것에 들어 휴식하거나 다른 여행자와 만날 수 있습니다.
또한 콘서트 이벤트에 참가하거나 서예 다도 등의 일본 문화 체험등 여행자를 위한 이벤트와 서비스를 즐길 수 있습니다.
나라현 사루사와 인은 여러분의 방문을 기다리고 있습니다.

Yamanobe-no-Michi | A Walk Through Time on Japan's Oldest RoadThe Yamanobe-no-Michi is part of Shinkaido, the most ancie...
25/01/2025

Yamanobe-no-Michi | A Walk Through Time on Japan's Oldest Road

The Yamanobe-no-Michi is part of Shinkaido, the most ancient road in Japan. It is a unique opportunity to experience the harmonious blend of Japan's rich history and vibrant present all enveloped in a hiking trail of 4 to 5 hours suitable for all levels. The most popular stretch of the road runs between Isonokami-jingu Shrine in Tenri City and Omiwa-jinja Shrine in Sakurai City, but we will also introduce you to a few charming sites along the path further north in Nara city.

The Yamanobe-no-Michi is mentioned in the Nihon Shoki (The Chronicle of Japan) meaning it dates back to at least the 8th century. The road originally meandered around wetlands, forest and settlements, but as these disappeared over time, the road straightened out and evolved to match its surroundings.

https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/yamanobe-no-michi

Wakakusa Yamayaki Mountain Burning Date: Sat, Jan 25Entry: No chargeTime: Fireworks: 18:15 | Yamayaki: 18:30Location: Mo...
24/01/2025

Wakakusa Yamayaki Mountain Burning 

Date: Sat, Jan 25

Entry: No charge

Time: Fireworks: 18:15 | Yamayaki: 18:30

Location: Mount Wakakusa, Nara Park

Transport: 30-min-walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station

Yamayaki is one of Nara’s most popular festivals, so don’t miss Mount Wakakusa getting its top burnt off! The origins of this festival may date to settling a dispute between monks of Todai-ji and Kohfuku-ji. Other origins point to warding off the spirits of ghosts or chasing away wild boar. The firing torch is carried from Kasuga-taisha Shrine by monks from Kohfuku-ji Temple.  After the burning of the mountain, there will be a fireworks display. The event may be postponed in case of rain or bad weather.

23/01/2025

Haniwa Manju was established in 1940 and has firmly established itself as one of the go-to souvenirs for visitors to Kashihara.

What are Manju?
For those of you that don't know, manju are sweet and moist traditional cakes made of flour, rice powder, kudzu, and buckwheat with an anko (red bean paste filling). Although they come in a myriad of varieties, it may be easier to think of them as mini castellas with a red bean jam filling.

February in Nara starts with a number of festivals and events marking Setsubun, or the beginning of spring. Don’t miss t...
23/01/2025

February in Nara starts with a number of festivals and events marking Setsubun, or the beginning of spring. Don’t miss the special event for this month—the Nara Rurie 2025 light-up. It runs for one week from February 8th and ends with fireworks celebrating 145 years of Nara Park! The end of February is plum blossom season, but there are a couple of bonsai plum tree exhibitions in the beginning of the month. If you’re into snow hiking, the Mount Minue Frost Festival lasts until February 16th.

https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/things-to-do-in-nara-february-events

JW Marriott Nara's Luxurious Strawberry Buffet From January 18 to May 6, 2025, JW Marriott Hotel Nara will host a luxuri...
22/01/2025

JW Marriott Nara's Luxurious Strawberry Buffet

From January 18 to May 6, 2025, JW Marriott Hotel Nara will host a luxurious strawberry buffet in collaboration with world-renowned Italian pastry chef Oriana Tirabassi. The buffet features approximately 50 items, including sweets, savory dishes, and drinks made with three varieties of strawberries, including the locally grown Nara brand "Kotoka."

Highlight menu items include the "Strawberry and Rose Tart," the "Strawberry Sakura Mille Crepe," and innovative dishes like "Strawberry Risotto" and "Strawberry and Mozzarella Pizza," offering a perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors. 

This indulgent buffet is available exclusively on weekends and holidays. Prices are ¥6,900 for adults and ¥3,450 for children (ages 6–12), including tax and service charges. Don’t miss this limited-time event, a must for strawberry lovers!

If you want to see plum blossoms in Nara City, then one of the best locations is the Kataoka Bai-en Plum Grove in Nara P...
21/01/2025

If you want to see plum blossoms in Nara City, then one of the best locations is the Kataoka Bai-en Plum Grove in Nara Park with its hundred or so trees. You can also find a few plum blossom trees around Sagiike Pond and Ukimido Pavilion. It's an area where the deer love to gather, so you are likely to get some really great snaps, too.

Location:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xhZLVqAWctctgJTFA

Hiking in Nara - Courses for BeginnersWhile the vibrant neon lights of Tokyo often capture the imagination when thinking...
20/01/2025

Hiking in Nara - Courses for Beginners

While the vibrant neon lights of Tokyo often capture the imagination when thinking of Japan, the country's landscape is predominantly characterized by a diverse topography. Approximately 70% of Japan's land area comprises mountainous regions and plains, presenting a stark contrast to the urban imagery and hyper-modernity often associated with the nation.

Nestled in the heart of the Kii Peninsula, Nara Prefecture exemplifies this natural diversity. With mountains and forests enveloping the region, only about 23% of Nara's area is habitable, ranking it 43rd in terms of livable space among Japan's 47 prefectures.

This geographical makeup positions Nara as an idyllic destination for hiking enthusiasts. The prefecture's rich natural landscape offers a plethora of trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. However, this article aims to introduce hiking courses specifically designed for beginners

https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/hiking-in-nara-courses-for-beginners

The best guides, the best memoriesThe Nara Prefecture Regional Interpreter Guides are knowledgeable individuals who have...
19/01/2025

The best guides, the best memories

The Nara Prefecture Regional Interpreter Guides are knowledgeable individuals who have received training and registration from the Prefectural government. They possess in-depth knowledge of the region's history, geography, and culture.

 
These guides offer paid interpretation and guiding services, using foreign languages to assist foreign visitors in Nara Prefecture. By utilizing their services, visitors can have a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience, safe in the knowledge that their guide is fully accredited, professional and able to offer their full support. 

Book your guide here:
https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/licensed-guides

January 17th was the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake.Despite the immense appeal of Japan as a travel de...
17/01/2025

January 17th was the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake.

Despite the immense appeal of Japan as a travel destination, there is no getting away from the fact that it is the most seismically active country in the world. Victim to approximately 20% of the world’s magnitude 6 or greater earthquakes, Japan is well prepared to respond to such disasters, but are you? In all honesty, there is nothing that could truly prepare you for an earthquake, however, there are a number of steps you can take as a traveler, both before coming to and after arriving in Japan to help keep you safe in the event of an earthquake.

We hope that you will never need this earthquake guide, but highly recommend you familiarize yourself with basic safety procedures detailed in the link below.

https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/the-traveller-s-earthquake-survival-guide

The Yoshino Ropeway holds the distinction of being Japan's oldest surviving aerial tramway. It first opened on March 12,...
17/01/2025

The Yoshino Ropeway holds the distinction of being Japan's oldest surviving aerial tramway. It first opened on March 12, 1929—just a year after the Yoshino Railway, now known as the Kintetsu Yoshino Line, extended its reach to Yoshino Station. Despite updates to its cabins and cables over the years, the original spans, constructed in 1928, remain intact.

The ropeway features two charmingly named cabins: Kaede (Maple) and Sakura (Cherry). These cabins are designed with stair-like floors, a vintage style rarely seen today. The ride offers not just convenience but also a touch of nostalgia. It’s the quickest route to ascend Yoshinoyama from Kintetsu Yoshino Station, taking only a few minutes.

Each cabin accommodates up to eight passengers and operates roughly every 20 minutes. During peak seasons, such as cherry blossom season, long queues are common. Alternatives include a 20-minute walk up the mountain or seasonal bus services from the station. In winter, during the off-season, the ropeway runs only on Fridays, Mondays, and weekends. Tickets can be purchased at machines located at both ends of the line, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

This month, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its first forecasts for when the sakura will start to bloom al...
16/01/2025

This month, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its first forecasts for when the sakura will start to bloom all across Japan. First flowering in Nara is projected to be March 27th.

The former Daijoin Temple, once a prominent institution tied to the imperial family, flourished as part of Kofukuji Temp...
15/01/2025

The former Daijoin Temple, once a prominent institution tied to the imperial family, flourished as part of Kofukuji Temple from the Heian period through the Muromachi era. Though the temple itself was destroyed multiple times—first in 1180 and again in 1451 during a peasant revolt—its garden endured as a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design. In the late 15th century, Zen’ami, one of Japan’s most celebrated garden designers, restored the grounds. His work harmonized ponds, bridges, and carefully selected flora, creating a garden that became renowned as one of Japan’s finest.

However, the Meiji period brought significant changes. With the dissolution of many Buddhist institutions during this era, the garden was abandoned and fell into disrepair. By the 1920s, it had been repurposed as part of the Nara Hotel grounds, serving as tennis courts and a putting green. Following World War II, efforts were made to revive its historical significance. The garden was restored, and the Daijoin Temple Garden Heritage Center was established to preserve its legacy.

Today, visitors can explore what remains of this historic site just south of the Nara Hotel. The Heritage Center offers scale models, maps, and artifacts that recount the temple’s storied past. Open year-round, it provides a glimpse into both the grandeur of medieval Japanese gardens and the enduring cultural heritage of Nara.

14/01/2025

Let's take a "Kawabune Cruise" at Dorokyo Gorge, Totsukawa Village, Nara Prefecture.

About 96% of Totsukawa Village’s area is covered by forests and mountains. Sparkling clear blue rivers, waterfalls and other amazing natural sites can be found throughout the area.

One of the most spectacular places in the village is the Dorokyo Gorge at the southernmost tip of Nara Prefecture. Classic canyon walls, hiking, rickety suspension bridges and boat rides await any who venture this far out.

Setsubun "The Bean Throwing Festival"At the beginning of February laughing and squealing children throw handfuls of roas...
14/01/2025

Setsubun "The Bean Throwing Festival"

At the beginning of February laughing and squealing children throw handfuls of roasted beans at a teacher or parent wearing a demon mask at schools across Japan; families in their homes chant, “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (Evil out! Good fortune in!) And the head of the household chucks a hand full of beans out the front door before slamming it shut. Bigger bean throwing ceremonies with more masked demons and demon dances are also held at shrines throughout the country.

Read more here:
https://www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/setsubun

L’Ami d’Enfance à la MaisonAt the end of Shinmachi-dori Street lies L’Ami d’Enfance à la Maison, a French restaurant tha...
13/01/2025

L’Ami d’Enfance à la Maison

At the end of Shinmachi-dori Street lies L’Ami d’Enfance à la Maison, a French restaurant that celebrates local produce within a 200-year-old Edo-period building.

The name, L’Ami d’Enfance, meaning “childhood friend” in French, evokes a sense of familiarity and warmth. Coupled with the rustic charm of the countryside and traditional architecture, it invites you to slow down and savor both the food and atmosphere.

Chef Hideki Katayama’s menu is a tribute to local produce, featuring vibrant seasonal vegetables grown in Gojo’s rich soil and nourished by its pristine waters. His dedication extends to house-made charcuterie—carefully cured hams, smoky bacon, and rich apple butter—as well as locally sourced game from Gojo’s forests.

In this 200-year-old Japanese house, classic French cuisine becomes more than just a meal—it’s a cultural crossover that invites guests to savor both tradition and innovation in every bite.

Access: 637-0071, Nara Prefecture, Gojo City Futami 1-9-28
Hours:
Lunch: 11:30-15:00 (Weekdays from 12:00 PM)
Last Order: 13:30 
Dinner (Reservation Required)
18:00 – 22:00 Last Order: 20:30
Closed: Wednesdays

Menu du Jour: ¥4,000
Special Lunch: ¥5,200
Dîner du Jour: ¥9,000
Chef’s Selection: ¥11,500

The new "Discover OSAKA" app features a Hello Kitty XR experience, allowing you to take unique photos with XR Hello Kitt...
12/01/2025

The new "Discover OSAKA" app features a Hello Kitty XR experience, allowing you to take unique photos with XR Hello Kitty at landmarks and tourist spots throughout Osaka.

Our facility is also included as a "Special Offer Spot" outside of Osaka Prefecture.

Download the app for iOS and Android here:
https://osaka-info.jp/discover-osaka/xr/

© 2024 SANRIO CO.,LTD.APPROVAL NO. L648333

Here's a list of coin lockers and places that do baggage storage in Nara city. If you'd like a copy of this, please DM ...
11/01/2025

Here's a list of coin lockers and places that do baggage storage in Nara city. If you'd like a copy of this, please DM us and we will send it to you.

*We take great care to ensure the information we provide is accurate, but please be aware that prices and operating hours may differ from what is written here.

住所

3 Ikenocho
Nara-shi, Nara
630-8361

営業時間

月曜日 08:00 - 21:00
火曜日 08:00 - 21:00
水曜日 08:00 - 21:00
木曜日 08:00 - 21:00
金曜日 08:00 - 21:00
土曜日 08:00 - 21:00
日曜日 08:00 - 21:00

電話番号

0742-81-7461

ウェブサイト

アラート

Nara Visitor Center & Inn / 奈良県外国人観光客交流館/ 猿沢インがニュースとプロモを投稿した時に最初に知って当社にメールを送信する最初の人になりましょう。あなたのメールアドレスはその他の目的には使用されず、いつでもサブスクリプションを解除することができます。

事業に問い合わせをする

Nara Visitor Center & Inn / 奈良県外国人観光客交流館/ 猿沢インにメッセージを送信:

ビデオ

Haniwa Manju
Haniwa Manju

Haniwa Manju was established in 1940 and has firmly established itself as one of the go-to souvenirs for visitors to Kashihara. What are Manju? For those of you that don't know, manju are sweet and moist traditional cakes made of flour, rice powder, kudzu, and buckwheat with an anko (red bean paste filling). Although they come in a myriad of varieties, it may be easier to think of them as mini castellas with a red bean jam filling.

Cafe Little Oven (カフェ Little oven) On the banks of the Yoshino River in Higashi-Yoshino Village, lies a unique hybrid shop incorporating a chic cafe called "Little Oven" and a boutique order-made furniture workshop called MINE. The shared space is actually run by a charming husband and wife team who moved to the area a few years ago to realize their dreams. #nara #cafe #yoshino

ISK Sports Kart Hanna #gocart #nara #ikoma Nestled along the Hanna road, (a busy road which connects Osaka and Nara) sits a funky GoKart race track operated by ISK, a sports kart company which operates several race tracks up and down the country. The standard kart, which is what we tried, can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, but due to the kart being so low to the track it actually feels much, much faster. It's a compact course with lots of challenging corners but what makes it usual is that there are several inclines and declines. The reception area is also pretty cool. It's a cross between a repair shop, garage and a clubhouse. There are overalls and helmets on display, engine parts on workbenches and a satisfying fragrance of oil and gasoline in the air. It really puts you in the mood for an afternoon of racing. Official website: https://sportskart.com/price_en.html

Let's take a "Kawabune Cruise" at Dorokyo Gorge, Totsukawa Village, Nara Prefecture. About 96% of Totsukawa Village’s area is covered by forests and mountains. Sparkling clear blue rivers, waterfalls and other amazing natural sites can be found throughout the area. One of the most spectacular places in the village is the Dorokyo Gorge at the southernmost tip of Nara Prefecture. Classic canyon walls, hiking, rickety suspension bridges and boat rides await any who venture this far out.

. Wakakusa Yamayaki Mountain Burning Date: Sat, Jan25 Entry: No charge Time: Fireworks: 18:15 | Yamayaki: 18:30 Location: Mount Wakakusa, Nara Park Transport: 30-min-walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station Yamayaki is one of Nara’s most popular festivals, so don’t miss Mount Wakakusa getting its top burnt off! The origins of this festival may date to settling a dispute between monks of Todai-ji and Kohfuku-ji. Other origins point to warding off the spirits of ghosts or chasing away wild boar. The firing torch is carried from Kasuga-taisha Shrine by monks from Kohfuku-ji Temple. After the burning of the mountain, there will be a fireworks display. The event may be postp

2025 Resolution
2025 Resolution

Do you have any lofty goals for 2025? Is one of them visiting Nara? 😉

Japanese Wedding Costume Experience Date & Time: Friday, January 24, 2025 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Venue : NARA Visitor Center & Inn Admission: Free of charge *first-come-first-served basis Time required: Dressing takes about 5 minutes Cooperation: Tanaka Bisho-en 田中美妆园 The NARA Visitor Center & Inn, in collaboration with the local wedding costume company Tanaka Bisho- en, will host an event offering foreign visitors the unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture. This is a rare chance, so don't miss out!

Nihon Buyo FREE Live Performance. Friday January 3rd 15:00 - 16:30 "Nihon Buyo" is a traditional form of dance that has been developed over 400 years It incorporates slow expressive dance styles, faster styles with leaps and aggressive movements and pantomime gestures from kabuki and is performed to traditional live music. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to experience this breathtaking traditional performance art only at NARA Visitor Center & Inn!

Come and celebrate the New Year with us. 🎉 FREE EVENT: Until January 5th we have Nara drink tasting, mandarin orange sampling, New Year's calligraphy, board games and quizzes and chopsticks making - all for free. 10AM to 5PM We look forward to seeing you. Happy New Year! #2025 #nara #freeevent

A big THANK YOU to everyone who joined our free Xmas Bingo Game the other day. It was great fun! Our next event is January 3rd. Nihon Buyo FREE Live Performance. 15:00 - 16:30 "Nihon Buyo" is a traditional form of dance that has been developed over 400 years It incorporates slow expressive dance styles, faster styles with leaps and aggressive movements and pantomime gestures from kabuki and is performed to traditional live music. Don't miss this amazing opportunity to experience this breathtaking traditional performance art only at NARA Visitor Center & Inn!

Happening Today: The Procession of the Ages starts at 11am outside Nara Prefectural Office.

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Our Story

Nara Visitor Center & Inn is located in the midst of Nara’s World Heritage sites, the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, and in the middle of the historic Naramachi district. Right on the edge of Sarusawa Pond, whose waters reflect the Five Storied Pagoda of Kofukuji Temple, the location offers wonderful views of the changing seasons. Nara Visitor Center & Inn provides tourists visiting Nara a great place to relax and interact along with the opportunity to discover and experience the city’s cultural and sightseeing riches. Use the space to rest or meet up with others while touring the city’s World Heritage sites, to take in a concert or try your hand at calligraphy, to experience a tea ceremony or Japan’s culinary culture, or to make use of an array of essential traveler services—we are here to help and make your trip as pleasant and deeply rewarding as possible. 나라현 사루사와 인은 나라의 세계유산과 고대의 역사문화재의 중심에 위치합니다. 또한 역사 깊은 ”나라마치”의 한가운데에서. 고후쿠지의 오중탑이 비치는 사루사와 연못의 바로 옆에 있어 변해가는 계절의 아름다운 경치를 즐길 수 있습니다. 나라현 사루사와 인은 나라를 방문하는 여행자에게 나라의 문화와 관광 자원을 발견하고 경험하기 위한 최적의 장소를 제공합니다. 여러분은 나라의 세계유산을 산책하는 중에 이것에 들어 휴식하거나 다른 여행자와 만날 수 있습니다. 또한 콘서트 이벤트에 참가하거나 서예 다도 등의 일본 문화 체험등 여행자를 위한 이벤트와 서비스를 즐길 수 있습니다. 나라현 사루사와 인은 여러분의 방문을 기다리고 있습니다.