Afternoon Tea And Irish Charm In Nara

Since I was staying at a nearby hotel, I decided to visit this luxurious bar for the first time, drawn by its reputation as part of a top-tier hotel.

Though I initially expected it to feel a bit exclusive, I was pleasantly surprised—the bartenders and staff were incredibly welcoming, creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The perfect balance of luxury and approachability truly lives up to the Marriott name.

I especially recommend their seasonal fresh fruit cocktails! Each one is not only delicious but also beautifully presented—an experience so memorable, I found myself wanting to come back again.

I finally had the chance to visit JW Marriott Hotel Nara for their enchanting Little Prince collaboration afternoon tea 👑☆

From a drink inspired by the asteroid "B612" to the beautiful "Blue Galaxy" chocolate—half cinnamon, half matcha—each item reflected a dreamy summer theme in striking shades of blue 💙.

The refreshing savory selections, the vanilla bean-rich Little Prince macaron, and the generous free-flow of tea and drinks made for an indulgent and unforgettable afternoon. A perfect way to beat the summer heat in style ♩

Just a 7-8 minute walk from Shin-Omiya Station, the lobby lounge at JW Marriott Hotel Nara offered a lovely experience when I visited over the New Year holidays. The hotel itself is fairly new, having opened just a few years ago.

After dining at AZEKURA, the restaurant on the same floor, I stopped by the bar for a drink. Light meals are available too, so it's perfect for a daytime visit as well.

While the lounge isn't particularly large—reflecting the hotel's boutique size—the high ceilings give it a comfortable, open feel. That said, since it's close to the main entrance, some seats may feel a bit less private.

Toward the back, there's a sleek bar counter, while the front area offers a more relaxed lounge atmosphere. I tried one of their original signature cocktails, which beautifully incorporate local Nara elements like tea.

The drink I chose, a cloudy green cocktail inspired by morning mist, was gently sweet yet refreshingly crisp—a real treat. As the only JW Marriott in Japan at the moment, I'm rooting for their continued success!

After dining at the restaurant, I felt like enjoying a drink, so I ordered a White Russian and a Cuba Libre. The bartender at the time happened to be a strikingly handsome foreign gentleman—very friendly and easy to talk to.

The bar itself is tucked into a section of the hotel's lobby lounge, with an open and airy atmosphere that feels refreshingly relaxed. Honestly, I preferred it over the somewhat stuffy, hidden-away vibe of typical club lounges. This one struck the perfect balance of elegance and comfort.