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Hip Nara: Cool and Affordable Hotels & Cafes
There’s an undercurrent of cool in Nara, as lower rents and an easier pace of life attract young entrepreneurs and creative types. The best places combine old-school service with new ideas and a fresh approach.
- K Coffee
- A real original, the young couple that run this offbeat cafe took over an abandoned gas station, installed a fish tank phone booth and roast their own excellent coffee. Western Cafes Yamato Koriyama
- Shikanofune
- A new venue in Naramachi has a modern take on the traditional machiya, with spaces for dining, shopping and meeting, plus an amazing circular library. Japanese Cafes Naramachi
- Cafe & Dining Nagood
- From good coffee and decent lunch options to a funky wine bar at night, this cafe is your go-to anytime. Western Cafes Nara Park
- Ryokan Matsumae
- Run by a creative couple - she’s a calligrapher and he’s a kyogen (traditional comic theater) performer, the traditional tatami-floored space is decorated with original art and even has a space for intimate kyogen performances. Ryokan Naramachi
- Mia's Bread
- Originally a graphic designer, the owner opted for a quieter life and found her calling: making amazing sandwiches in her cool DIY shack. Western Cafes Nara Park
- Kuruminoki
- This cafe and lifestyle complex started the trend to organic and natural, with home cooking, fashion and stylish homewares. Western Cafes Shin-Omiya
