Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara Year-End and New Year Events
Traditional Japanese New Year's activities and craft workshops.
About
Ring in the New Year at Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara with a festive celebration designed for all ages. They offer a delightful array of activities, including local sake tasting, traditional Japanese New Year's games, and engaging craft workshops. Families can enjoy classic games, while adults can savor regional sake. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with a blend of cultural experiences and festive fun.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and those interested in japanese new year traditions
Vibe
Festive, traditional, family-friendly
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Local sake tasting fair
- Complimentary New Year's sake (furumai-zake)
- Calligraphy experience
- Traditional Japanese New Year's games
- Craft workshops using local materials
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$
Duration
Specific times for each activity, generally from 15:00-18:00 or 7:00-9:30.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Kashihara
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara
Practical Information
Parking
Guest parking is 500 JPY per night (valid from 12:00 PM on the day of check-in to 1:00 PM on the day of check-out). Event attendees receive 4 hours free parking. Restaurant/shop visitors receive 2 hours free parking. Standard rates apply thereafter.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed
Food & Drink
Local sake tasting, New Year's 'furumai-zake' (complimentary sake), and food vendors.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early for the 'furumai-zake' (complimentary sake) on January 1st, as it's offered during breakfast hours and is a popular way to start the New Year.
- Check the specific times for each activity, as events like calligraphy and games are scheduled for limited windows, primarily in the afternoon.
- Consider booking an all-inclusive plan if staying overnight, as it often simplifies budgeting and enhances the overall holiday experience.
- The hotel is conveniently located just a minute's walk from Kashiharajingu-mae Station, making it easily accessible by public transport.
- Bring cash for any potential small purchases at the sake tasting or for any additional craft materials not covered by the workshop fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main New Year's activities available?
They offer a 'Jizake Tasting Fair' with local sake, a 'Shinshun Furumai-zake' (complimentary New Year's sake), a calligraphy experience, and various 'Ennichi Games' and 'Oshogatsu Asobi' (New Year's games) for families.
Are there any craft activities for visitors?
Yes, they offer several craft workshops, including making original bookmarks with Yoshino handmade washi paper, creating coasters from tatami, and woodworking with Nara prefecture timber.
What are the dates and times for the New Year's events?
Most events run from December 31st to January 3rd, with specific times for each activity, typically in the afternoon (e.g., 15:00-17:00 or 15:00-18:00), and the complimentary sake on January 1st from 7:00-9:30.
Is there a cost for these activities?
The sake tasting, New Year's games, and calligraphy are generally complimentary. The 'Shakyo' (sutra copying) experience is 1,000 JPY per person, while the craft workshops are also available for a fee.
What is the best way to get to the hotel?
The hotel is conveniently located about a 1-minute walk from the East Exit of Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station, making it easily accessible by train.
