Published date: December 9, 2024
A Journey Where History and Thrill Intersect: Extraordinary Experiences in Nara
Room Type Stayed
Some info has been automatically translated by AI.
Experience of the stay
My stay in Nara was not just a trip, but a heartfelt experience. I stayed at Fairfield by Marriott Nara Tenri, a hotel that, as its name suggests, sits alongside a historic highway while boasting modern comfort and warmth.
What struck me first was the coziness of the lounge. Free coffee, tea, and even miso soup were available, creating a relaxed space. As I took a break and picked up a book on history and culture, I felt the charm of Nara deepen within me. There were also local crafts and tasteful interior items on display, allowing me to connect with the region's culture while still at the hotel.
The guest room, as expected from Marriott, exuded luxury and cleanliness. Even within the simple and functional design, small gestures like tea and mineral water were noticeable. It was a place where I could customize my “me time” while relaxing on the sofa and getting work done at the desk.
Additionally, another feature of this hotel is that it is adjacent to a roadside station. Enjoying local specialties, gourmet foods, and handmade crafts was a delight for a travel lover like me. I was particularly surprised to learn that Nara Prefecture is famous for its strawberries. The strawberries I bought at the roadside station were juicy and sweet, so delicious that they made my cheeks melt!
The leisurely time spent in the lounge, the tranquility I felt in the guest room, and the local charm I encountered at the roadside station all gave me reasons to love Nara even more. The emotions I felt during this trip will surely remain in my heart forever.
Experiences during the trip
Before checking into the hotel, I stopped by Nara’s famous spot, Nara Park! There were many adorable deer that made me smile, and every interaction brought me comfort. The experience of visiting the Great Buddha of Nara and historical buildings that followed was overwhelming in their grandeur and beauty, leaving a lasting impression.
On this day, a collaboration event between HafH and Fairfield was being held, and I participated in that as well. Later in the evening, I enjoyed a luxurious moment guided by the manager of Fairfield to visit the headquarters of the Tenrikyo Church. The majestic building was stunning to see, and it turns out visitors can enter at any time throughout the day. Walking through the approximately 1 km of corridors felt like a nighttime stroll, revealing fresh discoveries amidst the quiet.
The next day, after checking out of the hotel, I headed to Bouken no Mori Yamazoe. It is an athletic facility that utilizes the forest as it is, allowing me to immerse myself in nature and feel like I had jumped back to my childhood. Playing in the forest again was exhilarating, almost as if I had time-traveled. Among the activities, the roughly 100m zip line and mini bungee jump were thrilling! The seven athletic activities were packed with fun, and I thoroughly enjoyed moving my body. It was the best day, and I would love to visit again soon!