Nara, JapanNara Park
Villa Communico
Wood-fired culinary auberge
Wood-fired culinary auberge
The five-room auberge runs entirely around its evening tasting menu, with guests sleeping steps away from the wood hearth.
What it’s good at
Notable
Curved plaster walls and element-themed suites built inside a century-old timber frame.
Notable
A preserved century-old kominka retaining its original roof beams and carved ranma transoms.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
At the foot of Mt. Wakakusa, between Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Villa Communico offers a rare kind of stillness.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Nara Park surrounds the property, with Todaiji Temple to one side and Kasuga Taisha Shrine a short walk away.
The rooms
Each suite represents an element, from fire to wood, finished with cave-like plaster arches and a deep soaking tub.
At the table
Tables look toward Mount Wakakusa, and dinner arrives from an open hearth shaped like a traditional okudosan.
Nara
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.