Tucked away in the sacred heartland of Nara, just a 3-minute walk from Miwa Station, lies a place where time slows down and history whispers from the mountains: Taishoro Ryokan. I recently had the chance to spend a night at this fourth-generation, family-run ryori ryokan—and I captured the experience in my latest video:
🎥 Watch the full video here:
Taishoro isn’t just a ryokan—it’s a gateway to Japan’s spiritual roots. Located near Ōmiwa Shrine, believed to be the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan and the birthplace of both sake and sumo, this ryokan offers an unmatched blend of cultural depth, tranquility, and culinary excellence.
What Makes Taishoro Special?
🛏️ Tranquil Rooms with Garden Views: Spacious tatami rooms open out to a serene inner garden, making it the perfect setting for reflection or relaxation.
🍱 A Feast for the Soul: As a ryori ryokan, Taishoro places immense care into its food. The dinner I enjoyed was one of the highlights of the stay—local, seasonal, and beautifully presented. Don’t miss the pink somen noodles, a regional delicacy tied to Nara’s rich culinary heritage.
♨️ Beautifully Renovated Bath Area: Their shared bath features a gorgeous brick mural depicting a nearby shrine, blending modern comfort with historical reverence.
🙋♂️ Warm, English-Speaking Hosts: Mr. Uda, who runs the ryokan, greeted me personally and offered tips on the surrounding sacred hiking trails—including the Yamanobe Trail.
Why You Should Visit
Taishoro is ideal for solo travelers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the crowds of Kyoto or Nara City. It’s not about luxury in the Western sense—it’s about quiet beauty, heartfelt hospitality, and reconnecting with an older Japan.
There are a few practical notes to keep in mind:
💴 In-house charges (like dinner and drinks) are cash only
🚿 Toilets and showers are shared, but kept spotless
🌄 There are no blackout curtains, so pack an eye mask if you’re light-sensitive
🦟 Mosquitoes may be around in the warmer months—bring repellent just in case!
Final Thoughts
If you're seeking a deeply authentic experience with soul-stirring food and rich cultural connections, Taishoro is a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left. It’s a rare gem where hospitality, history, and home-cooked perfection come together in harmony.
📍Location: Taishoro Ryokan, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture
🎥 Watch the video tour here: https://youtu.be/7apQHNmCeTk
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