HOSHINOYA, Hoshino Resorts’ flagship luxury brand, will open HOSHINOYA Nara Prison on June 25, 2026. It will be Japan’s first luxury hotel housed within a former penitentiary. The former prison is being transformed into the brand’s ninth property, turning its historic walls into a timelessly elegant stay.
With this opening, HOSHINOYA Nara Prison joins the ranks of the most notable luxury prison hotels worldwide, a growing niche in heritage hospitality.
Built in red brick with a radial plan and a central guard tower, the compound has stood on its site for more than a century. HOSHINOYA Nara Prison preserves these defining architectural elements – iconic red-brick façades, steel frameworks and radiating cellblocks – along with modern sensibilities. The result is a fusion of heritage and contemporary comfort, offering guests an immersive experience rooted in history and craftsmanship while meticulously preserving the original architecture.
Timeless elegance set within a site of historical significance
Originally commissioned in 1908 as part of the modernisation of Japan’s judicial system, the former Nara Prison features multiple wings radiating from a central guardhouse, was based upon the western-style Haviland System and remains a symbol of Japan’s modern penal history.
After more than a century of service, the site was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 2017, honoured for its historical value and masterful architectural design. HOSHINOYA Nara Prison stands as Japan’s first luxury hotel set within an Important Cultural Property of such unique historical significance.
Former cells reimagined for deep relaxation at this all-suite property
The guest rooms have been reimagined by combining former prison blocks into private, luxury sanctuaries. The interior reveals a beautiful fusion of eras: 100-year-old hand-laid brick walls, once hidden beneath plaster, harmonising with bold iron pillars and elegant wood panelling.
In “The 10-Cell” suite, ten individual solitary cells are the smallest units of the original structure. There are also 48 suites which feature distinct areas for sleeping, living, and dining, Surrounded by historic brick walls, guests can witness the shifting of light and the passage of luxury time.
Suites are thoughtfully divided into distinct areas for sleeping, relaxing and dining, with restrained design details creating an atmosphere of quiet contemplation – an intentional reinterpretation of confinement as serenity.
Bookings are now open and rates start at US$233 per guest, per night.
Fine dining and curated activities
The former detention wing has been transformed into an elegant dining hall, where guests can enjoy Japanese-French cuisine – a refined combination of classical Western techniques and Japanese flavours.
A selection of immersive activities that reflect the signature HOSHINOYA experience, are in development and will draw inspiration from the site’s history and surroundings.
Nara Prison Museum
Alongside the hotel, the Nara Prison Museum will open to the public on 27 April 2026. The Museum is a public facility dedicated to the site’s history and architectural heritage and preserving the site’s profound historical value. The museum will welcome day visitors, ensuring the landmark remains accessible to the wider public.
