I’m a huge fan of Osaka, it’s a fashionable spot with a large range of creative hotels! From quirky boutiques to sleek and modern high-rises, here are my favorite places to stay in this incredible city…
1. Henn na Hotel
I thought this place was the future! Conveniently connected to Exit 2 of the Shinsaibashi subway station, animatronic dinosaurs check you in at reception—yes, seriously! I highly recommend getting your camera or iPhone ready for the crazy dance they do, too!
My guestroom was less crazy with a minimalist modern design, a comfortable bed, quirky patterns and organic toiletries to pamper your senses, creating an atmosphere of unique glamour.
There was no onsite restaurant, but they did offer a Japanese-style buffet breakfast with more cute gadgets, and I also loved that I was conveniently close to all the futuristic shopping malls too! There are also other versions in Tokyo and Kyoto.
- To book, check prices or availability for Henn na Hotel Shinsaibashi
My favorite highlights…
- I loved the funky anime design details in my room – especially the cute bed spreads and the wall art!
- The sushi breakfast delivered to the room each day, I thought the Mehari-zushi was especially tasty.
- Being checked in by a cool animatronic dinosaur robot, of course!
2. Moxy Shin Umeda
I thought was a seriously fun hotel! Located in the centre close to attractions, the design is funky and colourful, and the vibe is lively and youthful, and so is the staff!
My boutique-style room was a smart and functional living space with high-thread-count bedding and organic toiletries. I loved the motion-activated LED guidelights below the bed, the floor-to-ceiling art images, the plush lounge chairs, and the ultra-high-velocity Wi-Fi!
My other favourite highlights included the outdoor terrace, the handcrafted cocktails, the quiet Library Zone, and the 24-hour fitness centre! I would highly recommend taking advantage of their happy hour, which takes place from 4 pm to 6 pm.
- To book, check prices or availability for Moxy Shin Umeda
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on “Moxy Fizz,” cocktail made of gin and elderflower at the funky Bar Moxy – I loved how they incorporated local Japanese flavors and ingredients!
- I loved the self-serve buffet breakfast which had a mix of traditional Japanese and Western style dishes. I especially loved the build-your-own ochazuke and customizable ingredients miso soup.
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3. Mimaru Namba North
I think this new cool-themed hotel is perfect for families or the young at heart. It has a relaxed and fun multilingual staff and a funky design with anime/manga design details located in the centrally located Horie district,
My room was like a mini apartment, with a fully furnished kitchen, a cute dining area, and great city views. I would highly recommend booking a Pokemon room, which comes with a giant stuffed Snorlax on the bed and themed plates for you to eat off!
I also loved the matsuri-themed lobby where you can play games of ring toss or smart ball!
- To book, check prices or availability for Mimaru Namba North
My highlights…
- I found their Pokemon themed room to be a lot of fun – I especially loved the life-size Pikachu plush!
- Having interactive digital maps in the reception area made life so much easier! I was able to discover the Hozenji Yokocho Alley that led me to Hozenji Temple, which was a must-do activity in the city!
4. Moxy Honmachi
This is a seriously hip hotel! Located near Honmachi Station in the buzzing business district, the design is trendy, with quirky features and fun staff to match!
My modern room had hardwood floors, platform beds, a walk-in rain shower, and loads of tech-forward, including 50-inch flatscreen TVs and motion-activated LED lights (my personal favorite!).
Some rooms are compact, so I recommend upgrading if you can for a bit more space. Other amenities include a grab-and-go deli, a sociable bar with creatively crafted cocktails, and a tasty buffet breakfast.
- To book, check prices or availability for MOXY Honmachi
My favorite highlights…
- Playing giant jenga and Nintendo switch during the day before belting out karaoke classes in the evening at their games room – I loved that it turned a chilled out day into a fun and unforgettable one!
- Sipping on a Matcha Martini in their funky bar – it was needed after zipping around the local area on their hotel bikes!
5. Excel Hotel Tokyu
This large design hotel was sublime! Located near the Namba Shrine, the interiors mixed traditional Japanese with a contemporary style. The vibe was trendy but not intimidating, and the staff was eager to please.
My room had playful, vibrant decor, geometric-patterned carpets, colourful pops of wall art, and high-end toiletries. I’d highly recommend booking a room on the Mido floor, as it offers wrap-around windows and a host of lavish add-ons.
I loved the tasty Asian-style buffet breakfast and my favourite spot, the top-floor restaurant, which goes from calmness in the day to a lively night scene by evening. I just sat and gazed out the large windows at the city’s neon lights! Bliss!
- To book, check prices or availability for Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
My personal highlights…
- Gazing at the stunning skyline views from the floor-to-ceiling windows in my guest room – I could see Midōsuji Avenue, Namba, and the Shinsaibashi District and it was incredible to even spot Osaka Castle and Tsutenkaku Tower in the distance!
- I really loved how my guest rooms was really spacious (more than average Japanese hotel!) and had things that made my stay even more special like a cozy Japanese yukatas (a traditional robe) and luxurious rain showers.
6. Hotel It Shinmachi
Located near Wakoji Temple, this is where sophistication meets serenity! This is a chic boutique with lashings of greenery, interesting textiles (by artist Mana Morimoto), and a chic, intimate vibe with charming staff to match!
My room was cozy and minimalist, with a Japanese functional look, comfy beds, air conditioning, and soundproofing.
I was a big fan of the trendy bar with unique purple lighting, where talented mixologists craft handcrafted cocktails! I would highly recommend trying the Butterfly Kiss Cocktail!
Other amenities included two onsite restaurants, a cute gift shop, and an Asian-style buffet breakfast. It was tough to leave this intimate, zen-like cocoon!
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel It Shinmachi
My highlights…
- Joining their calligraphy class was a unique experience! I got to learn the art of writing kanji characters, and loved being taught by a very knowledgable local artist!
- I was thrilled to discover a screen projector in my guest room – it transformed the space into my very own mini cinema and made watching a movie a lot more fun!
7. W Hotel
This hotel wowed me! Located on lively central Midōsuji Boulevard and designed by architect Tadao Ando, the interiors are ultra-modern mixed with retro details. The vibe was fun and trendy and the service was exceptional.
My funky room had a custom-designed rain shower, floor-to-ceiling windows, incredible views, and fun details, from the cartoon-like wardrobe interiors to the neon mirror lights.
I would recommend booking a room on the higher floors for the incredible views! I also loved the spa and gourmet dining experience, including a delicious buffet breakfast!
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Feeling rejuvenated with their cleansing Kayo ritual at the spa – I loved having the facial which consisted of natural ingredients of rice bran, green tea and hibiscus.
- Gazing at the skyline from their rooftop infinity pool – it was incredible to the Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, and the lush Nakanoshima Park!
8. The Lively Honmachi
Art, technology, and comfort are combined at this next-generation lifestyle hotel! Located in a central location close to attractions, the design is urban chic with unique graphical elements, and the atmosphere is playful and uplifting.
My guest room was modern and cleverly used. It came with a handy loaner smartphone, soundproofing, an exceptional room service menu, and a TV with streaming services. The standard rooms are compact, so I would recommend booking an upgraded room if you can.
Other stand-out amenities included a cool theatre room with a wall-sized screen, bike hire, and a fun billiards room. My favourite, though, was the sublime roof terrace, where I was truly captivated by the night view of central Osaka!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Lively Honmachi
My personal highlights…
- Lounging in bed and controlling everything with a slick remote was a tech-savvy dream! I could open the curtains, adjust the air con, and dim the lights – It made my stay feel extra indulgent!
- Enjoying a tasty bento box and koppepan (a soft, slightly sweet bread roll) made by a local bakery for take out in the day and then watching local indie bands on their live music night in the evening!
9. Zentis
This boutique is very special! Located in the heart of the downtown district of Dojimahama, it has a creative, industrial design curated by renowned designer Tara Bernerd with a relaxed vibe and attentive service.
My modern, minimalist room had polished wooden floors, large floor-to-ceiling windows with superb city views, a walk-in shower, and soundproofed walls.
I would highly recommend booking the Corner Studio King for its lush onsen-style bath! I also found an exquisite culinary experience at the refined eatery overseen by Michelin-starred chef Shinya Otsuchihashi!
- To book, check prices or availability for Zentis Hotel
My highlights…
- Snagging a free but delicious coffee from their barista station on my way out to explore the area – as a coffee lover I loved being able to taste the local coffee beans.
- Kick starting my day with an energising Hatha yoga session on their stunning rooftop garden – it was great to get chatting to like minded people too!
10. Hotel She Osaka
This fantastic, affordable boutique hotel is located near public transport for easy access to the city centre. It offers a new lifestyle design with a retro theme with vinyl records. The vibe is laid-back, and the staff is friendly but not intrusive.
My room was colourful and cosy with mod cons and quirky design features like retro turntables. It also had a private bathroom, slippers, and complimentary toiletries.
I loved the atmospheric candlelights, the sociable shared kitchen, and eating mouth-watering pizza while chatting with other guests on the terrace.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel She
My favorite highlights…
- I really enjoyed staying on their women-only floor and loved the extra details in my guest room such as the complimentary face masks, yoga mat, and the cute little beauty pack!
- I thought it was great to be welcomed by the hotel with a personalised note and delightful Japanese treats – the thoughtful gesture made me feel right at home!
11. Grids Premium Hotel Namba
I knew this dark, sleek, chic hotel had to make the list! The design is trendy and alluring, with an intimate vibe and elegantly dressed staff.
My room came with trendsetting Sealy mattresses and pillows, and I highly recommend booking a premium double room on a higher floor, which has better views and more space.
I also loved the French-style buffet breakfast infused with Asian spices and would suggest trying their fresh smoothie! The spacious lounge area and balcony offered an idyllic retreat with handcrafted drinks!
- To book, check prices or availability for Grids Premium Hotel Namba
My personal highlights…
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I loved staying in a Japanese-Style Rooms which featured a traditional tatami mat – it felt very authentic!
12. Conrad
This place is wow-inducing! Perched on the upper floors of Nakanoshima Festival West Tower, the city views here are incredible!
The design is dark, sleek, and contemporary, with art and design features by Matsuo Takahiro. The staff was exceptionally charming!
My spacious and chic room had floor-to-ceiling windows and a digitally controlled lighting system. I highly recommend booking a west-facing room for a distant aerial glimpse of Osaka Castle!
I could also choose from six on-site dining options on the 40th floor! My personal favourite was the 40 Sky Bar & Lounge, where afternoon tea turns into DJ soundtracks and cocktails after dark!
- To book, check prices or availability for Conrad Hotel
My highlights…
- Indulging in the multi-course fine dining experience at the onsite Kura restaurant was just divine! My favourite dish was the seasonal otoro sashimi which came with a strong wasabi dip!
- Gazing at the exceptional Japanese art and sculptures dotted all over the hotel – I found out from the concierge that the hotel showcases over 300 pieces of art!
13. Aloft Dojima
This is a funky, urban hotel! Conveniently located near the bustling Umeda district and the Kita-shinchi entertainment district, the design is vibrant and trendy, and the staff is fun!
My guest room was sleek and modern. It had an open-concept layout, a serene lighting system, large windows with superb city views, and a spacious rainfall walk-in shower.
My favourite highlights included the hip Re:mix lounge and W XYZ Bar, which had a vibrant, sociable atmosphere and creative cocktails (I’d highly recommend trying the Aloft Club cocktail!), the Re: fuel, where I collected grab-and-go coffees, and the state-of-the-art fitness centre!
- To book, check prices or availability for Aloft Dojima
My favorite highlights…
- Sipping an Osaka Spritz at their rooftop bar whilst watching the sun set was an awesome experience – I could even see the vibrant Hep Five Ferris Wheel!
- Experiencing the vibrant dining in their onsite restaurant which had a menu filled with seasonal ingredients from local producers – I especially loved the Kushikatsu with its tangy dipping sauce.
14. The Boly
Set in a renovated riverside heritage building in Kitahama (near Nakanoshima Park), I loved this boutique’s uniqueness! It has an intimate atmosphere and a trendy industrial-chic design with quirky details.
My guest room was cute with trendy modern decor, slippers, pyjamas, and soundproofing. I would highly recommend booking the riverside rooms for the views of the shimmering water below!
My other highlights included gazing at the river while dining on an Asian-style breakfast and dining at the on-site Riverside Sushi Bar TOSA, where I could choose from over 40 types of gin.
The 6th-floor salon boasted a premium snack bar, and the incredible open rooftop terrace overlooked the river!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Boly Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Its tranquil garden became my favourite retreat – spending peaceful moments here whilst being surrounded with local art from Ryohei Yoshiyuki and lush greenery was a gorgeous experience!
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Indulging in the signature zen stone massage in their onsite modern spa – I also loved how sweet and welcoming the staff were as well!
15. Royal Classic
Located near Namba Station, this is where tradition meets modernity with a zen-like vibe with eager-to-please staff!
My room was modern and trendy, with an iPad, bright lighting, air purifiers, an onsen-style bath, and incredible views (I suggest booking a higher floor to take advantage of them).
I also loved the highly rated restaurants on site, from the 2nd-floor Yurayura restaurant inspired by the waves of roofs of Shin Kabukiza to the open-air Restaurant & Café Tsuchi, which combined casualness and luxury. Alternatively, there were plenty of restaurants nearby to explore.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Royal Classic
My highlights…
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Their Japanese-styled suites were an absolute dream! I especially adored the tatami mats and the fluffy futons – it felt like stepping right into a cozy, enchanting Japanese fairy tale!
- Their made-to-order omelette station at breakfast – my favourite items to add were the caramelised onions and truffle oil!
Wow these hotels are the bomb! The city looks pretty awesome as well. I’d love to stay at the W Hotel!
Wow these hotels are the bomb! The city looks pretty awesome as well. I’d love to stay at the W Hotel!
Wow, this list is mind-blowing! I’m particularly intrigued by the Henn-na Hotel and the concept of being served by robots sounds pretty fun and special to be honest!