The Luxury Collection has announced the opening of Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara in one of Japan’s most historic and scenic leisure destinations.
Shisui is set within a Japanese garden that was once part of the grounds of Kofuku-ji temple, the family temple of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan, which was established in Nara in 710 AD. The temple is one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” Once Japan’s imperial capital during the eighth century, Nara is home to a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some of which surround the hotel: Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple. Beyond the grounds, Nara Park, forests, valleys and traditional villages await exploration.
Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and Associates conceptualized the overall design direction and interiors of the hotel, reviving the Yoshiki-en temple garden with modern esthetics. The hotel’s reception lobby, restaurant and lounge are situated in a low wooden structure, first built in 1922 as the residence of the governor of Nara, with its classical Japanese roofed gate preserved as the hotel’s main entrance. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate Shisui’s 43 guestrooms and suites with natural light. Select guestrooms frame views of nearby Mount Wakakusa, while deluxe rooms and suites offer private in-room hot springs or open-air baths.
Shisui’s F&B options include two restaurants and a bar. Restaurant Suiyou is the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant serving a menu of local and international fare. Sushi & Bar Shousou is situated within the restored storage rooms of the former governor’s residence and offers innovative interpretations of traditional sushi. Other facilities include a fitness center and SUI Spa, which invites guests to immerse themselves in the restorative powers of volcanic hot springs in two private rooms. The hotel’s “Destination Discovery” program shows guests how to create hand-made ink stick rubbings on ink stones. It is a contemplative activity that evokes a deep sense of mindfulness and promotes inner harmony.
The hotel is located a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu-Nara train station, which offers direct connections to Kyoto and Osaka in 35 minutes and 45 minutes respectively. Osaka Itami International Airport is a 45-minute drive from the hotel.
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