Can a prison from the Meiji era be this beautiful? A tour of the Former Nara Prison
Located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, the Former Nara Prison was built in 1908 during the Meiji era.
It has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and has recently been opened to the public for tours.
As a fan of retro architecture, I had always been curious about this place.
In October 2022, I finally got the chance to visit—and I’m sharing the full experience with plenty of photos
The breathtaking red brick exterior
The first thing that strikes you upon arrival is the stunning red brick building.
It's hard to believe this stylish and majestic structure was once a prison.
It feels like a European castle or even a scene straight out of a Studio Ghibli film.
Step through the front gate and you'll find the original Meiji-era offices and night-duty rooms preserved as they were, giving you a tangible sense of the past.
The radial cell block layout is awe-inspiring!
Inside, you can explore the unique radial layout typical of prisons.
With cells fanning out from a central hub—like a star-shaped fortress—the design feels straight out of a movie set.
It’s hard to believe this was built over a century ago!
You can even enter some of the cells to get a feel for what incarceration was like.
Peeking through the surveillance slots might give you chills...
Insightful exhibitions on Meiji-era prison culture
A section of the building features an exhibition area showcasing the history of Nara Prison and the Japanese prison system during the Meiji period.
You’ll find tools, architectural blueprints, and even the guards’ uniforms—much more impressive than I expected!
Rising popularity as a photo-worthy destination
In recent years, Nara Prison has quietly gained popularity among photography and architecture enthusiasts.
Red bricks, barred windows, white arched hallways, and weathered wooden floors—every corner is a visual delight
I couldn’t stop snapping photos and ended up with dozens 
It’s a hidden gem for anyone who loves finding Instagram-worthy spots!
The future of Nara Prison: From jail to hotel
This historic facility is set to be reborn as a luxury hotel operated by Hoshino Resorts.
Yes—soon, you’ll be able to sleep in a former prison!
**HOSHINOYA Nara Prison** Stay in a national cultural property from the Meiji era
Opening in spring 2026, this will be the ninth “HOSHINOYA” property—and the first in Japan to transform a former prison, designated as an Important Cultural Property, into a luxury hotel.
Originally built in 1908 as one of five model prisons by the Meiji government, its symbolic red brick buildings reflect both architectural beauty and historical value.
Enjoy a luxurious stay in one of Japan’s most unique cultural heritage sites.
Summary: A one-of-a-kind space to experience Meiji elegance and history
The Former Nara Prison isn’t just a ruin or a tourist attraction.
It’s a place where stunning architecture and real history coexist.
See it. Learn it. Feel it.
Why not take a journey back to the Meiji era?