Japan is a popular country that sits high on many people’s must-see lists. The country continues to entice travelers as people love the idea of visiting a faraway place with a culture and aesthetic that is a complete contrast to the West, yet incredibly alluring. Plus, it’s one of the safest options for tourists — especially solo travelers.
While Tokyo tends to get most of the attention since it’s the biggest city in the world and Japan’s capital there are plenty of other major cities to visit in the nation — each with its own unique vibe. In particular, Osaka is considered one of those places people should add to a Japan trip itinerary. Japan’s third largest city is a mere hour and a half flight from Tokyo, or a two and a half hour train ride. Once in Osaka, here are nine hotels to consider for a stay.
Best Hotels in Osaka for Couples
While Tokyo is known for being high tech and bustling, Osaka has a different flavor. Life tends to be less stressful here for locals so foreigners may find that Osaka residents are a bit more approachable and the pace is a bit more laid back than in the capital city. This makes Osaka ideal for romantic travelers. Consider staying at these gorgeous hotels.
InterContinental Hotel Osaka
If money is no object and a couple wants to create memories that last a lifetime, the InterContinental, an IHG hotel, is one of the top options. Whether for a getaway, proposal vacation, or even honeymoon, the five-star hotel offers exceptional service (which is a given in a country like Japan) and beautiful city views, followed by tasty on-site restaurants, an on-site spa and wellness center, and plenty of room service. Whether travelers want to explore the sites are stay cuddled up in their rooms, this hotel has everything they need.
The Westin Osaka
For a slightly less expensive stay, the Westin Osaka is a great solution. Again, couples unfamiliar with Japan will feel at ease since this is an international brand that’s part of the Marriot collection. Similar to the InterContinental, key features like beautiful city views, on-site restaurants and bars, hot tubs, a heated pool, and even a fitness center are all nice touches. More importantly, for couples thinking about jumping the broom, this venue hosts weddings and has onsite planners to assist with all the coordinating required.
Hilton Osaka Hotel
Rounding out the options from major hotel brands is the Hilton Osaka. This is the most affordable choice from this category but still features plenty of on-site amenities to make couples feel comfortable. There’s an on-site restaurant and lounge, spa and wellness center access, a fitness center, and this is another wedding-friendly venue for couples that enjoy their stay so much that they’d like to say “I do” here.
Best Hotels in Osaka for Families
Japan’s major cities might be bustling with activity, but there are plenty of families that live here too — proving that kids can enjoy the country as well. If the travel group includes a younger set of tourists, then here are three family-friendly hotels in Osaka to consider.
Ibis Styles Osaka Namba
Ibis Styles is a subset of the Accor hotel brand. It caters to business, group, and family travelers alike with relatively affordable room rates and sufficient amenities to appeal to a wider range of guests. This particular location in Osaka features a selection of higher occupancy rooms that can accommodate up to five people. Older members in the group will appreciate the nightly happy hour in the lounge which runs for four hours.
Swissotel Nankai Osaka
If parents would like a little separation from the kiddos, consider upgrading to the Swissotel Nankai Osaka. Adjoining rooms make it possible to be near the children without having to share space with them all day long. There’s also the option of booking triple rooms. Similarly, guests can reserve cots or cribs to make things more comfortable. Kids 12 and under can enjoy free breakfast meanwhile there are three onsite restaurants along with a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and gym.
Universal Port Vita
Technically this hotel is just outside of Osaka, but is located near the Universal Studios — making it a great option for theme park vacations. The hotel is Minion themed, which makes it an adorable option for the young and old alike in a group.
Best Hotels in Osaka for Solo Travelers
Japan is one of the safest countries to visit as a solo traveler and even when staying in the cities, this is no exception. Whether opting for a pod hotel or something more traditional, tourists can feel confident that the facilities will be secure.
Moxy Osaka Shin Umeda
This is a fairly new hotel in Osaka that opened in 2020. Moxy is part of the Marriott family and is a four-star facility that offers city views, free WiFi, and an onsite restaurant and bar. This venue is designed with solo travelers in mind because it offers plenty of opportunities for people to mingle. Another highlight is that there’s an onsite fitness center, and it’s located near popular attractions like Kochiin Temple, Jizoji Temple, and Uraeyasaka Shrine.
Hotel the Flag Shinsaibashi
This four and a half star hotel is centrally located in Osaka near the Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel and various shopping and music districts in the American Village. While this hotel lacks some of the shared amenities seen in other hotels, the common areas encourage mingling. Plus the more affordable price makes this ideal for solo travelers who need to stretch their budget while creating a multi-city itinerary.
The Bridge Hotel Shinsaibashi
If staying in the Shinsaibashi area is the goal, but travelers want a hotel with a little more to offer, consider The Bridge Hotel. While it is a budget-friendly option, value-added features like nightly complimentary happy hour between 3:00 PM and 9:30 PM and complimentary ramen noodles between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM make this a fun little option. Other touches like free bicycle and pocket WiFi rentals make this a no-brainer for budget solo travelers who plan to explore Osaka extensively.
Is Osaka Next On Your List?
Being a mere two and a half hours away by train from Tokyo makes Osaka a popular pitstop for anyone creating a multi-city tour through Japan. Because of the culture’s attention to detail and stellar service, it’s almost impossible to find a bad hotel. The only question is whether to book for a romantic couple’s getaway, family trip, or as a solo traveler.
