Experience Delightful Kakigori at Nara Hotel's Special Stay Plan

Nara, known as the “Holy Land of Kakigori,” is set to welcome guests back to the Nara Hotel from June 4, 2026. In anticipation of this, the hotel will launch a special stay package that includes guaranteed reservations at the beloved Kakigori store, Hōseki-bako, starting from May 15, 2026.

Kakigori, a finely shaved ice dessert often enjoyed in Japan during summer, has its roots in Nara's rich history. Dating back to the Heian period, Nara had an ice storage facility known as “Himuro,” where ice was preserved and delivered to the imperial court. This deep-seated ice culture has blossomed into a vibrant modern scene, where over 100 Kakigori specialty shops have sprouted across the prefecture.

Among these, Hōseki-bako stands out as a renowned establishment credited for igniting the Kakigori craze in Japan. The shop is masterfully known for freezing ice over a meticulous 72 hours, creating a fluffy texture that is skillfully shaved off, resulting in visually stunning and delicately sweet Kakigori. It has garnered fans from all over the country, drawing significant attention with its unique offerings.

With the aim of sharing this delectable Kakigori experience with a wider audience, Nara Hotel has curated a special stay package that guarantees a reservation at Hōseki-bako. Typically, patrons can only make a reservation from 9 PM the day before visit, but this exclusive plan allows guests to secure their spot at the restaurant simultaneously with their hotel booking, ensuring they don’t miss out on this exceptional treat.

During your stay at Nara Hotel, experience a blend of classic accommodations alongside the unparalleled pleasure of indulging in Kakigori. Imagine savoring these exquisite frozen desserts while surrounded by the rich historical ambiance of Nara.

Details of the Stay Plan

- Accommodation Start Date: June 4, 2026
- Dining Options: Breakfast selection from traditional Japanese, Western, or rice porridge sets
- Rate: Starting from 17,000 JPY per person for double occupancy
- Reservation: Limited to online bookings via the official Nara Hotel website
- Special Perk: Guaranteed reservation at Hōseki-bako

_Note: The rates include service charges and taxes; prices are as of the announcement date (May 13)._

- Entry Times at Hōseki-bako: Upon check-in, guests select their preferred entry time for the next day: 11:30 AM-12:00 PM or 12:00 PM-12:30 PM.
- Payment: Only cash accepted at Hōseki-bako; no credit cards or electronic payment options.
- Location: A scenic 10-minute walk from the hotel.
- Reminder: Guests must bring the “Nara Hotel Stay Plan Reservation Ticket” provided at check-in for entry to Hōseki-bako.

Nara Hotel Renovation Notice

The Nara Hotel will undergo a large-scale renovation and temporarily close during certain periods. The limited service resumption is from June 4, 2026, to September 1, 2026, with only the main building, dining options, tea lounge, bar, and hotel shop reopened.

Join JR West Hotels Membership Programs

Nara Hotel is part of the JR West Hotels network, offering benefits through membership programs like discounts on accommodations and additional services for guests. Membership is free, with potential rewards redeemable for various services at many locations.

_Now is the perfect time to discover this classic hotel experience combined with one-of-a-kind Kakigori, creating lasting memories in Nara._

For more details and to learn about Nara Hotel’s offerings, guests can visit the official website at Nara Hotel Official or connect via social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.