Nara Youth Hostel

I participated and finished Nara Marathon 3 times. Each time I stayed at this hostel, because it is a 5 minute walk away from the starting grounds. It is perfect as you are not tired out before the race starts and you can leave your baggage and take a bath after the race. And the price is very reasonable. Reception staff were also efficient, and they provide clear explanations on do's/don'ts so all guests behave as expected and not disturb others. The hostel is spacious (designed to accommodate sports teams looking to use adjacent track and field and athletic facilities) - has a huge mess hall, assembly hall and even separate communal furo (hot baths) for men and women. The mess hall has refrigerators and microwave guests can use so you can walk to the grocery or convenience store (about 200-300 meters away), buy food/drinks and store them at the hostel. They served japanese style buffet breakfast when I stayed there, and it was included in the package. It's located a bit out of the way, but the bus stops right in front so it's not an issue to get to JR Nara Station and explore the vicinity or connect to farther places by train.