Ruska®/ Nordic simplicity meets historic Zen here
Entire home in Nara, Japan
- 3 guests
- 1 bedroom
- 3 futons
- 1 bath
Hosted by Junko
- 7 years hosting
Listing highlights
Top 5% of homes
This home is highly ranked based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.
Self check-in
Check yourself in with the keypad.
Walkable area
This area is easy to get around.
Some info has been automatically translated.
【Guest Favorite】Welcome to Ruska®, a private, modern Zen villa filled with the relaxing aroma of Yoshino hinoki.
Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, Ruska provides a peaceful and comfortable retreat while keeping the vibrant energy of Nara right at your doorstep.
Perfectly Connected:
• Kintetsu Nara Station: 7-min walk
• JR Nara Station: 13-min walk (Easy 1-hour access to Osaka, Kyoto, & Kobe)
• Nara Park & Historic Naramachi: 10-min walk
The space
About the Space
▶ Natural Materials and Artisanal Craftsmanship
Yoshino cypress harvested in Nara is used for the pillars, beams, and flooring at Ruska. Please enjoy the soothing aroma of cypress that permeates the space and the unique warmth of solid wood. The dining table features cherry wood from Nara and is an original design created by a furniture artisan.
▶ Thoughtfully Designed Interior
The walls and ceilings are finished with natural plaster, and environmentally conscious materials have been used throughout the interior wherever possible.
▶ Comfortable Year-Round with High-Performance Insulation
Although Ruska is a wooden house, it features the rare combination of external insulation, a double ventilation system, and geothermal energy utilization. In addition, a 24-hour air circulation system helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year, minimizing the need for heating and cooling even during Nara’s cold winters and hot, humid summers.
▶ Fresh Air at All Times
Half of the indoor air is replaced every hour. Combined with the benefits of natural plaster walls, the air remains clean and refreshing at all times. We provide a relaxing and comfortable environment where you can unwind after your travels.
▶ Convenient Location
Ruska is easily accessible by public transportation. Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe can all be reached in approximately one hour via the Kintetsu or JR railway lines.
▶ Nearby Attractions
Nara Park, just a 10-minute walk away, is home to three UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms; in early summer, wisteria; and in autumn, beautiful fall foliage. Friendly deer also roam freely throughout the park, delighting visitors from around the world.
▶ Explore Nara’s Historic Heritage Sites
Historic landmarks such as Heijō Palace Site, Hōryū-ji Temple, Tōshōdai-ji Temple, and Yakushi-ji Temple are accessible by bicycle. These invaluable cultural treasures offer a glimpse into the origins of Japanese history and culture.
▶ Quiet Yet Convenient Surroundings
Although located near two train stations and the lively Naramachi district, Ruska is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, providing a peaceful environment for a restful stay.
▶ Communication with Guests
We kindly ask that communication be conducted in English whenever possible. While Junko is not fluent, she will do her best to assist you.
▶ Children Policy
Due to level differences within the room, and for safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate children between 9 months and 12 years of age. We appreciate your understanding.
▶ Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
Ruska is equipped with a 24-hour mechanical ventilation system, so there is no need to open the windows. Opening the windows may allow insects, pollen, and excess humidity to enter, which can affect the indoor environment. We invite you to experience the unique comfort of a modern wooden home designed for optimal indoor living conditions.
Registration Information
Licensed accommodation under the Japanese Hotel Business Act | Nara City Public Health Center, Nara Prefecture | Permit No. Naken-sei 39-57
Guest access
Guests have access to all areas of the house except the storage rooms. There is also a small garden; however, please enjoy it only from the bedroom window. The garden deck is high and lacks handrails, making it dangerous if balance is lost.
Other things to note
Other Things to Note
Allergies: The cushions are filled with bird down. If you have allergies, please let us know in advance—we can replace them with synthetic cotton cushions.
Bedding: The Japanese-style futon is made of 100% traditional cotton. It rests on a 100% wool mattress.
(Note: Recently, we have added an extra mattress to accommodate guests from cultures where Japanese-style futons are not used to being used to them, to reduce strain on the knees and provide extra cushioning. In other words, there are three futons!)
The top quilt is a functional quilt that adjusts temperature to match your body temperature, making your stay even more comfortable. (For use in three seasons excluding midsummer)
In midsummer, we will provide a thin summer duvet depending on the conditions. (July, August, September)
Accessibility: The house is designed with Universal Design principles in mind, while still honoring traditional Japanese architecture. As a result, there are two steps (approximately 20 cm each) at the entrance and in the bedroom.
A slope can be added up to the entrance, allowing wheelchair access with assistance.
However, due to the internal steps and natural wood flooring, the space may not be fully wheelchair-friendly.
Child Policy: For safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate children between the ages of 9 months and 12 years, due to the risk of falls or accidents.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Registration Details
Hotels and Inns Business Act | 奈良県奈良市保健所 | 奈健生第39－57号
Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, Ruska provides a peaceful and comfortable retreat while keeping the vibrant energy of Nara right at your doorstep.
Perfectly Connected:
• Kintetsu Nara Station: 7-min walk
• JR Nara Station: 13-min walk (Easy 1-hour access to Osaka, Kyoto, & Kobe)
• Nara Park & Historic Naramachi: 10-min walk
The space
About the Space
▶ Natural Materials and Artisanal Craftsmanship
Yoshino cypress harvested in Nara is used for the pillars, beams, and flooring at Ruska. Please enjoy the soothing aroma of cypress that permeates the space and the unique warmth of solid wood. The dining table features cherry wood from Nara and is an original design created by a furniture artisan.
▶ Thoughtfully Designed Interior
The walls and ceilings are finished with natural plaster, and environmentally conscious materials have been used throughout the interior wherever possible.
▶ Comfortable Year-Round with High-Performance Insulation
Although Ruska is a wooden house, it features the rare combination of external insulation, a double ventilation system, and geothermal energy utilization. In addition, a 24-hour air circulation system helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year, minimizing the need for heating and cooling even during Nara’s cold winters and hot, humid summers.
▶ Fresh Air at All Times
Half of the indoor air is replaced every hour. Combined with the benefits of natural plaster walls, the air remains clean and refreshing at all times. We provide a relaxing and comfortable environment where you can unwind after your travels.
▶ Convenient Location
Ruska is easily accessible by public transportation. Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe can all be reached in approximately one hour via the Kintetsu or JR railway lines.
▶ Nearby Attractions
Nara Park, just a 10-minute walk away, is home to three UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines. In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms; in early summer, wisteria; and in autumn, beautiful fall foliage. Friendly deer also roam freely throughout the park, delighting visitors from around the world.
▶ Explore Nara’s Historic Heritage Sites
Historic landmarks such as Heijō Palace Site, Hōryū-ji Temple, Tōshōdai-ji Temple, and Yakushi-ji Temple are accessible by bicycle. These invaluable cultural treasures offer a glimpse into the origins of Japanese history and culture.
▶ Quiet Yet Convenient Surroundings
Although located near two train stations and the lively Naramachi district, Ruska is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, providing a peaceful environment for a restful stay.
▶ Communication with Guests
We kindly ask that communication be conducted in English whenever possible. While Junko is not fluent, she will do her best to assist you.
▶ Children Policy
Due to level differences within the room, and for safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate children between 9 months and 12 years of age. We appreciate your understanding.
▶ Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality
Ruska is equipped with a 24-hour mechanical ventilation system, so there is no need to open the windows. Opening the windows may allow insects, pollen, and excess humidity to enter, which can affect the indoor environment. We invite you to experience the unique comfort of a modern wooden home designed for optimal indoor living conditions.
Registration Information
Licensed accommodation under the Japanese Hotel Business Act | Nara City Public Health Center, Nara Prefecture | Permit No. Naken-sei 39-57
Guest access
Guests have access to all areas of the house except the storage rooms. There is also a small garden; however, please enjoy it only from the bedroom window. The garden deck is high and lacks handrails, making it dangerous if balance is lost.
Other things to note
Other Things to Note
Allergies: The cushions are filled with bird down. If you have allergies, please let us know in advance—we can replace them with synthetic cotton cushions.
Bedding: The Japanese-style futon is made of 100% traditional cotton. It rests on a 100% wool mattress.
(Note: Recently, we have added an extra mattress to accommodate guests from cultures where Japanese-style futons are not used to being used to them, to reduce strain on the knees and provide extra cushioning. In other words, there are three futons!)
The top quilt is a functional quilt that adjusts temperature to match your body temperature, making your stay even more comfortable. (For use in three seasons excluding midsummer)
In midsummer, we will provide a thin summer duvet depending on the conditions. (July, August, September)
Accessibility: The house is designed with Universal Design principles in mind, while still honoring traditional Japanese architecture. As a result, there are two steps (approximately 20 cm each) at the entrance and in the bedroom.
A slope can be added up to the entrance, allowing wheelchair access with assistance.
However, due to the internal steps and natural wood flooring, the space may not be fully wheelchair-friendly.
Child Policy: For safety reasons, we are unable to accommodate children between the ages of 9 months and 12 years, due to the risk of falls or accidents.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Registration Details
Hotels and Inns Business Act | 奈良県奈良市保健所 | 奈健生第39－57号
Where you’ll sleep
What this place offers
Garden view
Kitchen
Shared onsen: public onsen nearby
Fast wifi – 339 Mbps
Dedicated workspace
Accessibility features
This info was provided by the Host and reviewed by Airbnb.
1 of 5 pages
Select check-in date
Add your travel dates for exact pricing
Rated 4.98 out of 5 from 56 reviews.
Guest favorite
This home is in the top 5% of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability
Overall rating
- 5 stars, 98% of reviews
- 4 stars, 2% of reviews
- 3 stars, 0% of reviews
- 2 stars, 0% of reviews
- 1 stars, 0% of reviews
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for cleanliness
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for accuracy
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for check-in
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for location
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for value
Guest reviews mention
Where you’ll be
Nara, Nara-ken, Japan
Throughout the four seasons, the area offers a rich tapestry of events and rituals rooted in 1,300 years of history and culture. Spring brings cherry blossom-lined paths along the Saho River (a five-minute walk from Ruska), wisteria blooms at Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Manyo Botanical Garden in Nara Park, and the Tenpyo Festival at the Heijo Palace Site. Summer features the *Mantoro* (Ten Thousand Lanterns) event—where every lantern at Kasuga Taisha is lit—and the beautiful *Tokae* lantern festival. Autumn offers the deer antler-cutting ceremony, vibrant fall foliage at various temples, and the Shosoin Exhibition, where treasures dating back 1,300 years are displayed once a year. Winter concludes the year with the Kasuga Wakamiya On-Matsuri ritual and sees the night sky ablaze during the Mt. Wakakusa Yamayaki (mountain burning) event. Centered around the "Naramachi" district, visitors can savor the culinary delight of creative dishes—ranging from sweets and meals made with rare *kuzu* (arrowroot) starch to persimmon leaf-wrapped sushi, Yamato vegetables, and local pork, beef, and chicken specialties.
Meet your host
My work: Former journalist
Most useless skill: Character actor impersonation, lip sync (as a child)
私は東京で住宅建築･書籍の記者&編集者だった知識や経験を元に、奈良で終の棲家｢Ruska｣を建てました｡Ruskaは､伝統の大工技術に省ｴﾈ機能をﾌﾟﾗｽ｡内装は自然素材の吉野ヒノキ､漆喰壁を採用｡
I built my final home, "Ruska" in Nara, based on my knowledge and experience as a journalist and editor of residential architecture and books in Tokyo. Ruska combines traditional carpentry techniques with energy-saving features. The interior is made of natural materials, Yoshino cypress and plaster walls. Favorite artist: Clay
Host details
Response rate: 100%
Responds within an hour
To help protect your payment, always use Airbnb to send money and communicate with hosts.