Hyatt to Launch Hotel NEI Nara, an Elegant New Destination in Japan’s Cultural Epicenter

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced an exciting new partnership with JR Tokai Hotels Co., Ltd., marking the upcoming opening of Hotel NEI Nara in the heart of historic Nara, Japan. Located at the entrance to the famous Nara Park and offering panoramic views of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this luxurious property will be the first Unbound Collection by Hyatt hotel in western Japan, and the third in the country, joining Fuji Speedway Hotel in Shizuoka and Hotel Toranomon Hills in Tokyo. The project is a collaboration between Central Japan Railway Company, JR Tokai Real Estate Co., Ltd., and JR Tokai Hotels Co., Ltd.

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt is a distinctive brand for travelers who seek a unique and elevated experience. Each property in this curated collection offers a combination of boutique luxury and exceptional locations, providing guests with unforgettable stays. Hotel NEI Nara will add to this portfolio, which spans across the globe, bringing the total number of Unbound Collection hotels to 40.

The name “NEI Nara” (寧 奈良) carries a deep cultural significance, with the character Nei (寧) symbolizing peace and tranquility. It reflects a respectful return to traditional roots, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in Nara’s rich heritage while experiencing modern luxury. The hotel will serve as an ideal destination for those seeking a balance of serenity and sophistication.

Nara, one of Japan’s most ancient cities, has played a pivotal role in the country’s cultural and spiritual development for over 1,300 years. As the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, the city is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including revered temples, shrines, and picturesque gardens. Hotel NEI Nara offers the perfect base for exploring iconic attractions such as Nara Park, where visitors can interact with the city’s free-roaming deer, the famous Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofuku-ji Temple, and the impressive Todai-ji Temple, which houses one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues.

Thanks to its central location, Hotel NEI Nara offers convenient access to Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station, with easy connections to Kyoto and Osaka, both only an hour away by express train. Guests can also reach the hotel from Tokyo in approximately 3.5 hours via the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train.

Nara’s tourism industry has seen impressive growth in recent years. According to the 2023 Nara City Tourism Survey, the city welcomed over 12 million visitors in 2023, a 30% increase from the previous year. International tourism surged dramatically, with the number of overseas visitors reaching 1.8 million—eight times higher than the previous year. With the growing demand for luxury accommodations, Hotel NEI Nara will meet the needs of travelers seeking a refined base from which to explore the city’s timeless charm.

Hotel NEI Nara is set to become a standout destination for those wishing to explore Nara’s heritage while enjoying unparalleled hospitality, making it a key addition to Hyatt’s global portfolio.

“We are honored to join hands for the first time with JR Tokai Group to bring The Unbound Collection by Hyatt to western Japan,” said Sam Sakamura, vice president of Japan and Micronesia, Hyatt. “We look forward to the opening of this luxury boutique hotel that will appeal to guests and World of Hyatt members from all over the world.”

“As the eastern terminus of the Silk Road, Nara is a very special place,” said Tom Pritzker, executive chairman of the board of directors, Hyatt. “The city’s historical and cultural importance is awe-inspiring, and adding a Hyatt hotel in this location is a unique opportunity that we couldn’t be more excited about.”

“We actively promote the uniqueness of Nara to people in Tokyo and across Japan, with tremendous support from the people of Nara,” said Shunsuke Niwa, president of Central Japan Railway Company. “We are honored by this collaboration with Hyatt, which has luxury hotels around the world. Through our planned first base in this wonderful city, we are excited about working with the local community to create even more attractive travel opportunities to Nara. We hope to entice both domestic and international travelers to have culturally rich experiences in this historic and spiritual city.”