VILLA COMMUNICO
Indulge in exquisite wood-fired cuisine
in a gastronomic auberge with five rooms
located at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa in Nara,
the ancient capital of Japan.
cuisine.
The flame embodies the powerful intensity of the centuries-old “noyaki” ritual
(the burning mountain) and the sacred solemnity of Shinto ceremonies at
Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The fire transforms with temperature, humidity, and the
moment of cooking, ensuring no ingredient is ever cooked over the same flame.
Each moment is unique—yesterday and today, today and tomorrow—
distinguishing each cooking experience. Enjoy a unique and unrepeatable,
ephemeral meal cooked using a wood fire.
Born in Nara, Japan in 1982. He moved to Italy in 2005 to acquire skills at Il Sole in Bologna. After returning to Japan, he worked at RISTORANTE CANOVIANO Kyoto, Ristorante i-lunga, among other places. In 2014, Earned French cooking techniques at L’embellier Kyoto and He became the chef at abaroz in 2015. As the owner-chef, he opened communico in 2018 and open VILLA COMMUNICO in the summer of 2024.
He was awarded two toques by Gault et Millau for four consecutive years starting in 2019 and received one star in the Michelin Nara Special Edition in 2022 and 2023.
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stay.
Each room is based on the concept of fire (ignis), water (aqua), earth (solo), wind
(ventus), and wood (lignum), the five elements that make up nature, which
VILLA COMMUNICO values.
Please enjoy your stay in a room overlooking the greenery of Nara Park, and
relax in the lounge where you can experience the seasonal transformations of Mt.
Wakakusa.
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about.
In 2018, we began a small ristorante called communico, just the two of us, a husband and wife team in Higashi-Ikoma, Nara. As the point of origin, the culinary delights of Nara connect its culture, history, and people. As time passed, the unique charms of Nara outgrew our humble beginnings. This led us to envision a grander expression of these elements through the form of “VILLA”, where depth, breadth, and richness intertwine.
From the moment you step through the door, VILLA COMMUNICO offers an unparalleled experience, unfolding a narrative that delves into the hidden roots of Nara. In a setting that exudes the essence of Nara’s cultural heritage, you will encounter innovative regional cuisine, crafted to be cherished for generations.
Discover the exclusive world of the auberge; the experience that awaits only those who choose to stay in Mt. Wakakusa.
The flames of the burning mountain, the vital force of the
earth and trees in the Kasuga Primeval Forest, which has been
protected from logging for over a millennium as the divine
mountain of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
Facing the street connecting Todaiji Temple and Kasuga
Taisha Shrine at the foot of Mt. Wakakusa in Nara Park, this
is a place where one can feel the energy of nature beyond
human power.
Experience the serene beauty of the sunset over the ancient
capital and wake up to the radiant sunrise on Mt. Wakakusa.
Immerse yourself in this elegant tranquility.
Will you keep my luggage before check-in or after check-out?
We offer luggage storage at the front desk. Please contact us for details if you have a large amount of luggage or wish to store your items for an extended period, as our storage space is limited. Please note that we do not accept valuables, fragile items, or food for storage
What is your lost and found policy?
Contact us with the following information via phone or email for our prompt search.
・Your name
・Date of your stay (Room name)
・Description of the lost item
・Your contact information
*Unclaimed lost items will be brought to the nearest police station after 1month.
Food and beverages will be discarded on the same day for hygiene reasons.
Can you help with a surprise?
Happy to help！Please make sure to consult with us in advance.
Do you have any affiliated hotels?
We have the following hotels:
・NIPPONIA Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu（https://maruto-shoyu.co.jp/）
・RITA Gosemachi（https://www.gosemachi.com/rita/）
・YADO CHARINKO（https://www.gosemachi.com/charinko/）
Are we free to go out after check-in?
Guests are free to go out after check-in, but please return in time for the meal service. When you leave, please take your room key with you.
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VILLA COMMUNICO is located at the foot of the Mt.Wakakusa.
For the guests coming by train, it is recommended to take a taxi.
From Hanshin Expressway Higashi-Osaka Route, 25 min. from Takarai Exit on Daini-Hanna Road
25 min. from Tenri IC on Nishi-Meihan Expressway
25 min. from Tenri IC on Meihan Expressway
Turn east at the intersection of Route 369 and Route 169.
Go straight while Kasuga-taisha Shrine is on your right.
Follow the one-way road leading you to the foot of Mt. Wakakusa
and you will find the hotel parking on you right along the road.
※Parking: 5 lots (free of charge/no reservation required)
VILLA COMMUNICO is not just about
the producers who supply
the ingredients; it’s also shaped by many
elements created by artists and
creators living in Nara, enhancing
the experience during your stay.
narrative
Tsugito
h design works
Nobi Structural Design Office
WOHL HUTTE ／
Make and See
NEW LIGHT POTTERY
Ushio Lighting
Togo Yuta
Otani Pottery Studio
Masuhiro Yokota
narrative
Hojo co.,ltd
Root Structural Design Office
Wada Komuten
MINE Kobo
Takanokagu
Hatano Wataru
Modulex
artless
Jukuseiniku Tsumugu
