Sleeping in a former prison may not sound luxurious, but Japan’s Hoshinoya Nara Prison is rewriting that experience with elongated suites, stocked minibars and rooms built by merging old cells.
Luxury travel
creator Elona Karafin, founder of Japan Like a Local, recently shared a tour of the property on Instagram. “I spent the night inside a 118-year-old Japanese prison,” she wrote while offering viewers a glimpse of its unusual transformation.
A Historic Prison Gets A Luxurious Makeover
Located in Nara, the red-brick prison was built in 1908 and operated as a juvenile correctional facility until 2017. Now recognised as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, part of the landmark has been converted into a five-star hotel operated by Hoshino Resorts.
According to Karafin, around 500 former cells were reworked to create 48 suites, along with a restaurant and other hotel facilities. Instead of erasing the building’s past, the redesign retains several original details, including its exposed brick walls, narrow windows and heavy metal cell doors.
Operating the historic site as a hotel is also expected to support the preservation of the culturally significant structure, which requires substantial funds to maintain.
Up To 11 Cells Make One Suite
The property offers three room categories: an 11-cell deluxe suite, a 10-cell suite and a nine-cell suite.
Karafin’s suite was reportedly created by combining nine to 11 former cells. As a result, the accommodation is exceptionally long rather than wide—a layout that constantly reminds guests of the building’s original purpose.
The suite opens into a lounge containing a compact dining table, coffee station and minibar. Champagne, wine and spirits stocked inside are included in the stay.
From Local Gifts To A Standalone Bathtub
A walk-in closet contains gifts made in Nara Prefecture that guests can take home, including handcrafted socks, fans and bags. These locally produced keepsakes celebrate the region and its craftspeople.
Further inside is a modern bathroom equipped with a standalone bathtub, shower and toilet. A second lounge functions as the living room and features an old-fashioned CD and cassette player, allowing guests to listen to music associated with Japan’s Meiji era.
The bedroom is comparatively minimalist, furnished with a bed in soothing, neutral shades.
What About Natural Light?
One concern about staying inside a former prison is the availability of sunlight. Although the suite retains the building’s small windows, Karafin said they allow sufficient natural light to enter when the sun is out.
The narrow windows, preserved brickwork and metal doors keep the property’s history visible, while its contemporary interiors add the comfort expected from a luxury hotel.
How Much Does One Night Cost?
According to the hotel’s website, a one-night stay at Hoshinoya Nara Prison can cost between $317 and $1,114, or approximately RsRs 30,345 to ₹1,06,638, depending on the room category and travel dates.
The hotel also offers travellers an alternative base for exploring Nara’s historic attractions at a time when nearby Kyoto is struggling with overtourism.
