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| Boilerpipe Text | Right in the heart of the Kansai region of Japan, and surrounded in every direction by some of Japan’s most famous sights, lies the modern metropolitan city of Osaka. Famous for its dazzling neon-lit entertainment district, its world-class food, and its friendly people, Osaka has become a popular base for exploring the region. However, with Osaka being Japan’s third-largest city (with a population of 2,7 million people), deciding where to stay in Osaka can easily start to feel quite overwhelming.
Osaka isn’t always on the “must-sees in Japan” lists, lacking those world-famous sights that its neighbor Kyoto is so known for. In fact, we skipped Osaka on our first couple of trips to Japan, but once we did set foot in this energetic city, it ended up being one of our favorite “big” cities. Osaka’s combination of affordable accommodation, world-class food at every street corner, and super convenient location for day trips around Japan won us over.
We love that, with just a short train ride, you can explore the
temples of Kyoto
, the historic city of Nara, the charming port town of Kobe, and our favorite castle in Japan, the famous
Himeji castle
.
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Stall serving Osaka’s famous Takoyaki – balls made of wheat flour and filled with octopus.
Osaka city itself has plenty to offer, too, from Osaka Castle to the famous neon-lit Dotonbori entertainment district to the view from the top of Japan’s second tallest building, from vibrant food markets to centries old eateries, from top-notch luxury shopping to nerdy manga geekery heaven. While it lacks the ancient temples and beautiful Japanese gardens that we all love, it makes up for it with its energy, relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food.
By the way, for more details on what to do in Osaka see our
complete and detailed two-day Osaka Itinerary
.
In fact, we fell in love with Osaka the first time we visited it in 2019, and we keep coming back to the city on all our Japan trips. 🙂
One of the results of all our visits to Osaka is this guide on where to stay in Osaka with all the little hotel gems we could find. Here we reveal what we think are the best areas to stay in Osaka and why. For each area, we have listed our favorite hotels at any budget – Top-End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
Latest Updates:
In 2023/24, we spent three months in Japan researching new travel guides and updating our existing guides. This time, we spent about two weeks in Osaka, and this guide to Osaka’s best accommodation has been thoroughly updated with new hotel recommendations and expanded area descriptions.
Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury hotel, a small, intimate boutique hotel, a value-for-money business hotel, or a budget guesthouse or hostel, Osaka will deliver.
Finding that perfect hotel or guesthouse for your trip really depends on your plans and preferences. Are you in town primarily to see the city attractions, or do you plan to take a lot of day trips to the surrounding sights? Do you prefer a local quiet neighborhood, or do you want easy access to Osaka’s famous neon-lit nightlife?
Osaka is a big city that covers a lot of ground, so it’s worth considering staying somewhere central.
Thankfully, Osaka has an excellent transportation system with subways covering the city well. The
Midosuji subway line
, in particular, is super convenient as it crosses through the town, connecting the most popular areas and will get you almost everywhere.
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Osaka’s famous fluffy cheesecake at Rikuro’s
You can easily do day trips from Osaka toÂ
Kyoto
(a 25-minute train ride),
Himeji Castle
(30 minutes), Kobe (30 minutes), and Nara (1 hour). And if you get up really early in the morning, you can even do day trips to
Hiroshima
(1 h, 20 min) and
Koyasan
(2 hours).
What Osaka does lack is Kyoto’s many Ryokans (traditional Japanese Inns). So if you have your heart set on staying in a Ryokan, Kyoto is the better choice. Have a look at
our article on where to stay in Kyoto
 for our recommendations on Kyoto’s best hotels and Ryokans.
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Beautiful Christmas illuminations in the street outside the hotel we stayed at, Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
One reason Osaka has become a popular place to stay is that accommodation here is generally considered to be fairly affordable compared to, for instance, Kyoto. While areas such as Kita and Minima have plenty of top-notch luxury hotels, other areas, such as Tennoji and around Osaka Castle, are more budget-friendly.
Also, during holidays and special occasions such as Cherry Blossom season, Kyoto gets packed with tourists, and the hotels fill up and get sold out. It can be much easier to find a vacant hotel room in Osaka and instead go on day trips to Kyoto from here.
Important: None of the hotels recommended here are paid placements or have sponsored our stay in any way. We always pay for our own travel. If you book through any of the links in this article, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our site running – so thank you in advance for your support! ♥
We hope you find this guide helpful in finding the best place to stay in Osaka!
The 7 Best Areas To Stay In Osaka
The seven best areas to stay in Osaka: 1. Minami (purple) 2. Kita (black), Â 3. Tennoji (orange), 4. Hommachi (green), 5. Nakanoshima (red), 6. Osaka Castle (brown), 7. Osaka Bay (blue)
The following seven areas are the best areas to stay in Osaka (in our opinion):
Minami Area – Downtown Osaka
The downtown area of Osaka has many restaurants, shops, markets, and hotels. It includes the neighborhoods of Namba, Shinsaibashi, Dotombori, Hommachi, and Amerika-Mura.
Kita Area
Osaka’s business district is considered part of downtown Osaka, with lots of restaurants and shops. It is also Osaka’s best-connected transport hub, with JR Osaka Station (direct trains to Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Kobe). It is a convenient area to stay in if you plan on making day trips from Osaka.
Tennoji Area
The old part of Osaka, with Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas. Lots of cheap restaurants in the Shinsekai neighborhood. Relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly accommodation.
Hommachi Area
Hommachi is between Osaka’s two downtown areas (Minami and Kita). However, it is much quieter, with office buildings and residential houses.
Nakanoshima Area
A small island squeezed between two rivers. It is a business district but has seen a hipster revival in recent years, with cozy cafes and coffee shops.
Osaka Castle Area
Osaka’s biggest tourist attraction.
Osaka Bay Area
The main reason for staying here is if you plan to visit Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan or take the ferry to, for instance, the Okinawa Islands.
Keep reading to find a detailed description, our personal opinion, and our photos of each of these seven best areas to stay in Osaka. We recommend hotels in Osaka for each area at three different price ranges: Top End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
Hope you find this hotel guide to Osaka useful. Please comment at the bottom of this article if you have any thoughts or questions. Enjoy your stay in Osaka! ♥
1. Minami Area
Best hotels in Minami Area:
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
,
Swissotel Nankai Osaka
,
Hotel The Leben Osaka
,
Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)
,
Cross Hotel Osaka
,
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
,
Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi
,
Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station
,
Kamon Hotel Namba
Minami, meaning “
South
,”
is Osaka’s most famous
entertainment district
, with an abundance of bars, restaurants, and shops. This area comes to life after dark when the restaurant streets are filled with both locals and tourists indulging in the famous Osaka food culture.
Minami includes the neighborhoods of
Namba
,
Shinsaibashi
,
Dotombori
,
Hommachi
, and
Amerika-Mura
.
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Dotombori is Osaka´s most famous and lively restaurant street, with its colorful display of neon signs
The area is usually simply referred to as
Namba
. The name comes from the subway station of the same name that lies at its center. Here lies several of Osaka’s most popular attractions, including Osaka’s best food market—the Kuromon Ichiba Market—the old Hozen-ji Temple, and the atmospheric Hozen-jo Yokocho Alley.
But the main attraction is Dotombori, the famous strip of restaurants, food stalls, and bars that line both sides of the canal and display the wildest, most colorful display of neon signs anywhere. It’s the kind of spectacle that takes your breath away. You can spend hours just wandering the side streets, trying out the local specialties, snapping photos, and exploring the small bars and narrow alleys. It’s great fun!
Why Stay In The Minami/ Namba Area?
World-Class Entertainment and Dining
The Namba area is the city center of Osaka, famous for its vibrant street food and nightlife. It is also home to most of the restaurants, cafes, shops, and pubs that have earned Osaka the title of Japan’s food capital.
Staying in the Minami/ Namba area puts you right in the middle of the action, and there is always something new to see and do or something to eat around the next corner.
Lots of Accommodation Options
This is Osaka’s most famous and visited area, and as such, there is no shortage of hotels and guesthouses offering accommodation no matter what your budget is.
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Dotombori Canal runs through the Minami area
Lots To Explore
From famous food markets to old shrines and atmospheric alleyways, Minami is a real treat to explore. There is always a photo opportunity lurking around every corner.
Convenient Access To Subway And Trains
It is also very well connected, and you can easily base yourself in Namba and explore Osaka city from here. There are two large subway stations, The Namba Subway Station and the Shinsaibashi Subway Station, both on the Mido-suji Subway Line.
For day trips outside the city, you can also take the train to/ from the JR Namba Railway Station, where the Yamatoji Railway Line stops, or use the Nankai Line and the Kintetsu Line. This makes it easy to go on trips to, for instance, Wakayama or Nara from Minami.
And if you’re a foodie, there is really no place better to be!
Things To See And Do In The Minami / Namba Area
Dotombori
Dotombori is the place to head to in the evenings. This is where most restaurants, bars, and pubs are located, and the whole neighborhood transforms into a bustling and energetic street market after dark. The area is famous for all its neon signs, especially the weird and wonderful giant wall signs depicting blowfish, crabs, and other creatures. It is a trendy photo spot. Perhaps the most popular motive is the famous neon sign that depicts the Glico man, also known as the running man.
Check out our
Osaka Itinerary
for our recommended walking route, which covers all the main sights of the Dotombori and Amerika-mura area.
Amerika-MuraÂ
A hip and trendy neighborhood packed with cool shops, cafes, bars, and nightclubs inspired by American streetwear and culture.
Nippombashi & Kuromon Ichiba Market
Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s best food market and a must-visit for foodies. A great way to experience this market is by
joining a food tour with a local guide
.
Hozen-ji Temple & Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley
A tiny temple with moss-covered stone figures hidden in an atmospheric stone-brick alley with old traditional restaurants and bars.
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Cozy atmosphere and several old traditional restaurants in Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley
Shinsaibashi
Go shopping along the two parallel shopping streets, Midosuji Avenue and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. Here, you will find everything from luxury international brands to budget shops.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
The astonishing Namba Yasaka Shrine, with its giant roaring lion head, is quite the sight and well worth a visit.
Modern Shopping Malls
With huge shopping malls like Takashiyama and the recently opened Namba Parks Mall, the area is a shopper’s paradise.
What’s The Catch?
The Minami/ Namba area is very busy and crowded after dark, and it lasts until the early hours, especially on weekends and public holidays.
Where To Stay In Minami Area
Top End
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
If you’re looking for a new, modern, top-end hotel in the heart of Namba, the 5-star Centara Grand Hotel Osaka is a great choice! Its fantastic location right next to the recently opened Namba Parks Shopping Mall, with 120 shops and restaurants and a direct walkway to the Namba Subway Station, makes it an excellent base for exploring the city.
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We loved the view from our stylish Superior King Room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor at
Centara Grand Hotel Osaka
We stayed in a Superior King room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor. After a few weeks of staying at fairly basic hotels while exploring rural Japan, it was fantastic to have such a spacious and comfortable room. The beds were heavenly, and the flat-screen TV was one of the biggest I’ve ever seen in a hotel room. With floor-to-ceiling windows, we had fantastic views overlooking the city. Even the bathroom had floor-to-ceiling windows.
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Loved the interior design
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Bathroom
There was also a large walk-in closet and a seating area with a comfortable chair and table. In the bathroom, the toilet room was separate from the rainwater shower and bathtub, perfect for uninterrupted soaking in the bathtub.
One evening, we treated ourselves to room service from the hotel’s restaurant. The menu is extensive, with Asian and Western options, but since the hotel is Thai-owned, we ordered some of our favorite Thai dishes. They were super tasty and surprisingly affordable for a five-star hotel.
We also had a chance to test out the fitness center, and it is excellent. It is spacious and has a large selection of machines and free weights. We had a fantastic time here and hope to be back again.
Click here for the latest prices
Swissotel Nankai Osaka
Swissotel Nankai Osaka has a fantastic location. It is directly connected to the Namba Nankai Railway Station and Namba Subway Station and right next to the huge Takashimaya department store. You can walk to all the action in neon-lit Dotonbori in about 10 minutes, and hundreds of restaurants and shops are around the area.
Apart from its amazing location, the Swissotel Nankai offers everything you’d want from a five-star hotel. The rooms are large and comfortable, the service friendly and professional, and there is an excellent fitness center, a spa, and even a full-sized swimming pool. There are seven in-house dining options, serving a variety of cousins. Breakfast is buffet style and is served on the 36th floor with a fantastic view of the city.
If you’re arriving from the airport, the 30-minute express train stops at the Namba station, and you can take the elevator directly up to the hotel lobby.
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
Hotel The Leben Osaka
This stylish design hotel has cozy, comfortable, spacious rooms and a great location in a quiet neighborhood. Perfect for a good night’s sleep while still being within easy walking distance of Dotonburi’s action.
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Maria checking out of
Hotel The Leben Osaka
We stayed in a Standard Twin Room on the 3rd floor, which was 30 sqm and very spacious. The beds were excellent, and the room had a fridge, an electric kettle, a sofa, and a large-screen smart TV.
We are very used to the so-called smart TVs not being quite as clever as advertised, but the screen mirroring worked here! We ended up watching a film while eating a pizza from nearby La Gologsetta (highly recommended if you like authentic Italian-style pizza!).
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We stayed in this fantastic Standard Twin Room (30 sqm) at Hotel The Leben Osaka
The bathroom was equally excellent. It was spacious, squeaky clean, and had our preferred layout of separate rooms for the toilet and bathtub/shower.
The cozy lobby has seating areas and complimentary drinks, including flavors of fruit-infused water, coffee lattes, and an assortment of tea. If you need to do laundry, washing machines are available on the third floor.
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Maria is planning our day in the lobby of
Hotel The Leben Osaka
One night, we were awoken by the fire alarm at five in the morning and got to meet all the other guests in the lobby in our pajamas! Thankfully, it was soon discovered to be a false alarm. This sort of thing could happen anywhere, and the staff handled it perfectly with smiles and professional calm.
Hotel The Leben comes highly recommended if you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in a quiet yet central location. We loved it!
Click here for the latest prices
Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)
Citadines Namba Osaka is a gorgeous 4-star hotel housed in one of Osaka’s grandest old buildings. This apartment hotel has spacious rooms with a seating area, private bathrooms, and a small kitchen. The rooms have a lovely and fresh design.
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Citadines Namba Osaka
We stayed in a Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) on the 2nd floor. Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are also available. Our apartment had a kitchen with a dining table, a full-sized fridge, a large flat-screen TV, a microwave oven, a stove, and a complete set of kitchen utensils. The beds were the most comfortable we had in Osaka. We could seriously have lived here long-term!
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Our cozy Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) at
Citadines Namba Osaka
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Super comfy beds!
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Kitchen
If there were a downside to our apartment, it would have to be the bathroom, which was relatively small and had little space to put our toiletry bags.
Apart from that, we were very impressed with the Citadines Namba. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the cafe downstairs, where we enjoyed our welcome drinks, was super cozy.
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Maria is enjoying her welcome drink at the lobby cafe
Every floor has a water dispenser, ice machine, and vending machine. On the sixth floor is a large shared kitchen and lounge with free tea and coffee. It was great to finally be able to do our laundry (the fifth floor has washers and dryers).
The hotel also has a fitness center, a kid’s playroom, and a bar. The famous Kuromon Ichiba Market is just up the street from the hotel, and you can easily walk to Dotonburi. There is a food court in the same building, as well as a 7-Eleven and a Family Mart right around the corner. It is a very convenient hotel.
Click here for the latest prices
Cross Hotel Osaka
With a location just next to the Dotonbori Canal and Ebisu Bridge, staying at the Cross Hotel puts you right in the middle of the most central area of Osaka. Dotonbori, with its neon signs and restaurants, is right across the canal, a short walk away (2 min).
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The cool entrance at Cross Hotel Osaka
Cross Hotel rooms are modern, stylish, and comfortable. They have free Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, air conditioning, a TV, and all the necessary toiletries.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and cafe, but Dotonbori, with all its restaurants, is just outside your door. Namba subway station is a 3-minute walk away.
Click here for the latest prices
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
A modern and stylish hotel (opened May 2019) with an excellent location – close to a large 7-Eleven, a Family Mart, and Hard Rock Cafe (we had takeaway burgers, which we ate in our room, and they were delicious!). There is also a Starbucks in the same building as the hotel. You can easily walk to the restaurant street in Dotonbori within 15 min.
Hommachi Subway Station is only 200 m from the hotel. From here, you can take the green Chuo Line (to, for instance, Osaka Castle), the red Midosuji Line (to the restaurant area Dotombori), and the blue Yotsubashi Line (to the entertainment area Shinsekai). You can also walk to Shinsaibashi Station in 8 minutes. So this is a convenient hotel to stay at to easily go around the city.
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Our Superior Twin Room (33 sqm) at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
We L-O-V-E-D our room, a Superior Twin Room! It was a big (33 sqm), bright, and delicate room with a huge comfortable bed, a sofa, a table, a big TV, a chair, two complimentary water bottles, a fridge, and a kettle. We also got robes, slippers, and all kinds of toiletries. The bathroom was huge, too, which is rare in Japan. We had a great view of Osaka city and a small temple next door. We slept like babies as the room was very soundproof, and there was no noise from either the street or the neighboring rooms.
The hotel has fully automatic washing machines on the 6th floor, which is very convenient. Some floors have washing machines and microwave ovens. The hotel has a nice restaurant, a bar, and a gym.
The free Wi-Fi in our room was super fast. We watched cross-country skiing and biathlon from a Norwegian TV channel, which worked smoothly. The room also has a spacious safe, which could fit both our laptops (13″ and 15″). We stayed seven nights at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu because we loved it so much. We used it as our base while we did day trips to surrounding cities.
Click here for the latest prices
Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi
This stunning boutique hotel has an urban, relaxed, Scandinavian-style style. It has the perfect location: right in the heart of Shinsaibashi, close to the Dotonbori area with all its restaurants and bars, but far enough away for a good night’s sleep.
The rooms are very comfortable and modern, with excellent bathrooms and a good shower. This is a great boutique-type hotel with free coffee and laundry facilities. The breakfast is decent, and you can use the neighboring gym. It is just a five-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Subway Station.
Click here for the latest prices
Budget
Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station
A new and modern 4-star budget hotel (opened March 2019) with a convenient location right by Namba Station (200 m). If you’re arriving from Kansai International Airport you can take the direct airport train to Nankai Namba station.
The rooms are fairly spacious by Japanese standards, with everything you need from toiletries, a bathtub, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a kettle, and a fridge. An extra bonus is the foot massage machine in your room (!), which is perfect after a long day of walking and sightseeing around Osaka. There is an excellent buffet-style breakfast with plenty of options available. Each afternoon, the friendly staff arranges a happy hour where you can enjoy free iced tea, ice cream, and even sake!
The famous food heaven Kuromon Market is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and the restaurant and pub street Dotonbori is a short 10-minute walk away. The Hiyori Hotel offers excellent value for the money.
Click here for the latest prices
Kamon Hotel Namba
A lovely boutique budget hotel/hostel with a stylish and cozy Japanese design. Everything from the cool entrance with the Japanese curtain panels covering the front door to the simple but comfortable rooms is very sleek and welcoming. They have standard double rooms for two people and family rooms with bunk beds, which can house up to six people. The rooms are small, but who comes to Osaka to sleep and stay inside the room anyway. 🙂
Breakfast is surprisingly excellent for the price, and the cozy common areas, especially the rooftop terrace, is a great place to relax and socialize. It is hard to fault its location either, with Osaka’s most famous food market, Kuromon Market, just across the street from the hotel and Namba Station, and Dotombori both less than a 10-minute walk away.
Click here for the latest prices
2. Kita Area
Best hotels in Kita Area:
The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
,
InterContinental Hotel Osaka
,
Zentis Osaka
,
Harmonie Embrassee
,
Hotel Noum OSAKA
,
Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda
,
Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda
Kita, meaning “
North
“, is considered Osaka’s business district with its tall modern skyscrapers and office buildings. Kita may lack a little of the local Japanese flavor, but it still is one of the best areas to stay in Osaka, with large department stores and shopping complexes with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
It’s a pleasant and safe area to explore on foot with its pedestrian-friendly wide sidewalks, and it also has its fair share of sights, with the spectacular Umeda Sky building as our personal favorite.
Kita is also arguably the best-connected area in Osaka. No less than four train lines converge here, as does the Midosuji subway, which stops at its center. This makes it an excellent base for exploring the city and taking day trips to the surrounding sights.
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Kita area is the business district of Osaka
Why Stay In The Kita Area?
Modern And Convenient With Some of Osaka’s Best Hotels
Kita is not as busy as Minami, though it is still considered part of downtown Osaka. This business district is where you find many of the city’s international luxury and upper-midrange hotels.
While there is no shortage of restaurants, the area gets fairly quiet at night, perfect for a good night’s sleep. If you prefer to party the night away, you’re just a short hop away from Dotonbori’s nightlife.
Osaka’s Best-Connected Transportation Hub
Kita is the perfect area to stay in if you want easy access to transportation to the neighboring cities. Some highlights of the transportation options in Kita include:
JR Osaka StationÂ
– Osaka’a largest train station. From here you can take the JR Osaka Loop Line, JR Kyoto Line, and JR Kobe Line.
Umeda Subway Station
– Osaka’s largest subway station provides easy access to the Midosuji line.  From here, you can quickly reach the Shinkansen trains at Shin-Osaka station.
JR Kansai Rapid Airport
– If you’re landing at Kansai Airport, the direct Kansai Rapid Airport train makes it easy to get to Kita.
Keihan, Hankyu, and Hanshin lines
– These lines connect Osaka to many of its neighbors.
In short, from Kita, you can travel almost anywhere, and there are direct trains to Nara, Kobe, Kyoto, and Himeji.
Things To See And Do In Kita Area
Umeda Sky Building
The 173-meter-tall building has a super cool open-air observation deck on its top floor. Here, you get a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka city. Even the escalator ride up to the top floor is cool, almost like a spaceship.
If you prefer to skip the ticket line, you can
buy your tickets online
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View from the Umeda Sky building
O-hatsu Tenjin Shrine
This 1300-year-old shrine is located in the middle of tall modern skyscrapers. The shrine is famous for the dramatic events that happened here in 1703 and was later depicted in one of Japan’s best known tragic plays. It is a sad love story between a prostitute and a wealthy merchant, who both committed suicide at the temple to remain together forever in the afterlife.
Kid’s Plaza Osaka
A museum dedicated to teaching kids through play, hands-on learning, and workshops.
What’s The Catch?
While there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, Kita cannot quite match the nightlife in the Minami area with Dotombori and its hundreds of restaurants. Its modern architecture means it lacks Minami’s historic buildings and old, cozy alleyways.
Where To Stay In Kita Area
Top End
The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
It’s hard to go wrong with the Ritz Carlton, and the Osaka hotel is no exception. A stunning 5-star hotel with world-class service and a perfect location, only a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a 5-minute walk from Nishi-Umeda Subway Station. And should you feel like staying in one evening, Ritz-Carlton has no less than five in-house restaurants, whereas one, the La Baie, is a Michelin-starred French restaurant.
The decor is inspired by classic European luxury with spacious and elegantly decorated rooms with spectacular views across the city from the 24th floor. The hotel has a swimming pool as well as a spa center with a gym.
Click here for the latest prices
InterContinental Hotel Osaka
Intercontinental Osaka is a superb luxury hotel with everything you would expect from its 5-star status. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated, and comfortable and include a large flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a Bose sound system, a mini-bar, tea and coffee, a safety deposit box, and even a walk-in closet. Standard rooms are located between floors 21 and 26, with fantastic views across Osaka’s skyline, and larger two—and three-bedroom apartments are available on higher floors.
The hotel also has a convenient location, only a 5-minute walk from the JR Osaka Railway Station and a 7-minute walk from Umeda Subway Station. Its neighbor is the Grand Front Osaka shopping mall, which has lots of shops and restaurants. You can rent bicycles free of charge from the hotel, which is a cool way to explore Osaka.
With its five in-house restaurants and bars, an excellent 24-hour gym, a spa, and an indoor swimming pool, the InterContinental is a great choice if you want to splurge on a few nights of luxury or are celebrating a special occasion.
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
Zentis Osaka
Zentis Osaka is a fairly new mid-sized hotel with a quiet yet central location. The rooms are modern and nicely designed, with hardwood floors, comfortable beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, a sofa, a fridge, and a seating area. The enormous flat screen has an Apple TV that provides streaming services like Netflix.
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Our Studio Room at Zentis Osaka
We stayed in a Studio Room (25 sqm) on the ground floor, and the layout was a bit unique. The bedroom and shower are separated by a glass wall, with roll-down blinds for privacy when showering. It worked well, but it may not be ideal for everyone. We really liked that the “kitchen” had a full set of cups and plates.
The lobby is fantastic! It is very cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of books, free coffee and tea, and even a fireplace!
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Maria is exploring the book selection at
Zentis’s Osaka’s
cozy lobby.
The second floor has a fitness center, a laundry room, and a vending machine.
We chose to book without breakfast, so we didn’t get to try that, but there are plenty of great places to eat breakfast nearby. There is also a Family Mart and a McDonalds right next door. We walked to Osaka Station in about 10 minutes.
Click Here For The Latest Prices
Harmonie Embrassee
The Harmonie Embrassee is a little gem of a hotel that, in many ways, is a match for the more expensive 5-star hotels. It’s simply super comfortable and clean, with surprisingly large rooms (enough space for several suitcases), friendly staff, and incredible city views through large windows. The location is equally top-notch, with Hankyu Umeda Station only 3 minutes away by foot and JR Osaka Station less than 10 minutes.
The spacious rooms have a super comfortable bed, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, a fridge, and a coffee machine. And you get bathrobes and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony where you can enjoy the city view. It is simply a great place to stay and offers excellent value for the money!
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Hotel Noum OSAKA
This stylish hotel opened in August 2019 and has a cool and relaxed hipster vibe. The rooms are not the most spacious, but they have everything you need and are super cozy. The design is Scandinavian-inspired, with large windows that face the river.
Downstairs, there is a fantastic bar, cafe, and breakfast area, and there are washing/dryer machines on some of the floors.
You can easily walk to Osaka Castle within 20 minutes (walk across Tenma Bridge). With a friendly staff and a central location in a lovely neighborhood with cute cafes and restaurants, the Noum Osaka is a great choice.
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Budget
Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda
Have you seen the movie “The Great Gatsby” from 2013 starring Leonardo DiCaprio? This hotel is like taken out of that movie! It has the same 20th-century design and vibe to it. Even the hotel’s cafe and bar is called Gatsby, which I find very fitting. An extra bonus is the free welcome drink in the Gatsby bar.
The rooms are small but very stylish, clean, and comfortable, and they all come with a private bathroom with a bathtub. You can’t beat the price and the location; just a 5-10 min walk from JR Osaka Station, with lots of restaurants and shopping streets right around the corner. A good deal!
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Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda
I love the design of this hotel, especially the welcoming lobby area with its cozy seating. Well-equipped, although small rooms, with a relaxed vibe. Good location not far from Umeda Station (a 10-min walk). The price is a real bonus for this central location. Modern and clean, the hotel opened in October 2018, so still relatively new. The complimentary breakfast is okay, coffee, bread, and muffins, but nothing special. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
Click here for the latest prices
3. Tennoji Area
Best hotels in Tennoji Area:
Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel
,
Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno
,
Khaosan World Tennoji
Tennoji is the old part of Osaka. It lies just south of Minami, and you can easily walk between these two areas.
Once, it had a reputation as a slightly seedy area, but Tennoji has seen quite a revival in recent years, especially since Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas, finished construction in 2014.
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Tennoji is the old part of Osaka with lots of cheap restaurants and pubs. Here is the Shinsekai neighborhood with its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.
The area around Shinsekai is very photogenic, with Osaka’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, Tsutenkaku Tower, at its center.
Why Stay In The Tennoji Area?
Cheap And Plentiful Food
This area has many cheap restaurants, especially in the Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji. Many of the restaurants here specialize in Kushikatsu, battered, deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers, which goes perfectly with a beer or two.
Relaxed Atmosphere And Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Tennoji is more relaxed than busy Minami, though it has a bustling bar and restaurant street. It is also a great area to look for budget accommodation.
Well Connected
Tennoji station is very well connected, being on the main Midosuji line and the Osaka loop line.
Things To See And Do In Tennoji Area
Shinsekai Neighborhood
Shinsekai meaning “New World”, has become the old town of Osaka. It used to be a cutting-edge amusement park, but time has transformed it into a cool entertainment district full of cheap restaurants and bars with a retro vibe.
Tsutenkaku Tower
The 103-meter-tall tower, also called Osaka Tower, is located in the Shinsekai Neighborhood and is a landmark in Osaka. Inside, you will find a nostalgic entertainment arcade /pachinko, mahjong parlors, and an observation deck.
Abeno Harukas Building
While the Tokyo Sky Tree is Japan’s tallest structure the Abeno Harukas Building in Osaka is Japan’s tallest building with its 300 meters. It has an observation deck on the top floor, and although it is not open-air, you get a fantastic 360-degree view of Osaka City through the large floor-to-roof windows. Inside is Japan’s largest department store, a small open-air atrium, and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum.
Quick tip: if you want to skip the ticket line,
you can buy your tickets online here.
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The observation deck at Abeno Harukas – Japan’s tallest building
Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
An ancient Buddhist Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea and sea travel was built in the 3rd century. The grounds are crisscrossed by a waterway lined with trees and lanterns. The canal also has a beautiful bright orange drum bridge.
Tennoji Zoo
This zoo opened in 1915 and is the home of about 1000 animals of 170 different species.
Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts
What’s The Catch?
The Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji is starting to show its age and some parts are frankly looking a little run down.
It also gets busy and loud in the evenings, especially during weekends and public holidays, when the crowds flock to the many restaurants and pubs in search of cheap food and drinks.
Where To Stay In Tennoji Area
Top End
Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel
This is an excellent 5-star hotel with a great location in the Abeno Harukas building, Japan’s tallest building! The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with everything you expect from an international luxury hotel. Since they are all located above the 38th floor, the view is simply unbeatable.
You get free tickets to visit the Abeno Harukas rooftop observation deck (part of our
recommended Osaka Itinerary
). Guests can work out at the fitness center in the Abeno Harukas building and shop at the giant Kintetsu Department Store (with many restaurants and shops) located on the lower floors of the building. The hotel has direct access to Tennoji Station, where you can take five different subway lines and two JR Lines, so it is very convenient for getting around Osaka and elsewhere in Japan. One of the best luxury hotels in Osaka!
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno
We stayed at Hotel Trusty in Kanazawa and loved it! It is a great hotel chain with excellent service and hospitality. It is just across the street from the lovely Tennoji Park, which is beautifully lit in the evenings. This Hotel Trusty has the perfect location, right next to Tennoji Station (JR trains, subway, and local trains), making it easy to get around Osaka and neighboring cities.
There are also plenty of restaurants and shopping options nearby, and the hotel has an in-house Japanese restaurant serving teppanyaki, where the chef cooks the food on an iron plate in front of you. The rooms are decent sized, with enough space to open the suitcases and walk around comfortably.
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Budget
Khaosan World Tennoji
A charming Japanese-style hostel with both private and dormitory rooms. All rooms have air-conditioning, heating, and a private bathroom with a shower. You can also use the cozy common areas like the shared kitchen and a lounge with tatami (woven-straw mat) floors. After a long day of sightseeing, you can soak your feet in the hotel’s foot bath. There is a vending machine with complimentary coffee, tea, water, and sports drinks. Breakfast is basic but filling, with a choice of toast and soup. You can easily walk to Tennoji Station, and the Abeno Harukas Building is just 10 minutes away.
Click here for the latest prices
4. Hommachi Area
Best hotels in Hommachi Area:
St Regis Osaka
,
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji
,
Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka
,
Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi
,
Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott
,
Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama
,
Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel
Osaka’s downtown area is split into two areas, Kita to the north and Minami to the south. Right in the middle of them lies Hommachi, a much quieter neighborhood that is, for the most part, office and residential in nature.
Apart from one of central Osaka’s most popular parks, Utsubo Park, there aren’t many sights to see here. However, there are some excellent hotels in the area, and prices here generally tend to be lower than downtown.
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Hommachi is a predominantly residential area with Utsubo Park as its centerpiece.
Hommachi has its own subway station on the Midosuji line, so you can use the subway to get around. The area’s central location also means that if you, like us, love to walk, you can walk to both Kita and Minami.
Why Stay In Hommachi
Quiet Yet Central
If you prefer to stay in a quiet area and still be able to walk to downtown Osaka, then Hommachi is an excellent choice.
Some Excellent Hotels At More Affordable Prices
There are some excellent hotels in the Hommachi area, and since it is considered slightly less central, accommodation prices tend to be lower than in more central areas.
Utsubo-Koen Park is another reason to stay in Hommachi. It provides a welcome green escape in an area with few parks. Inside the park is a rose garden with over 160 different kinds of roses and a tennis center that sometimes arranges international tennis tournaments.
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Utsubo-Koen Park is beautiful in autumn.
The park is a popular picnic spot on the weekends and late afternoons, and in spring, it is one of Osaka’s most popular places to see the Cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
Things To See And Do In Hommachi
Utsubo Park
As one of central Osaka’s very few parks, it is a great place to go for a walk, relax, or join the locals on a picnic. There is also a rose garden and a tennis center with 16 courts. In the fall, the large leafy trees turn a deep orange, and it is one of Osaka’s most popular spots for Cherry Blossom.
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Maria walking in Utsubo-Koen Park in autumn
Utsubo Bakery Panena
Utsubo Bakery Panena is one of the city’s best bakeries and is our favorite place to pick up some picnic food before heading to the park.
What’s The Catch?
Hommachi gets very quiet in the evenings, with little to no nightlife, and the neighborhood doesn’t have many sights to see.
Where to stay in Hommachi
Top End
St Regis Osaka
If you want to splurge a bit on your hotel stay in Osaka, this is an excellent choice. The five-star St Regis Osaka oozes luxury and is located directly on top of the Hommachi Subway Station’s Exit 7, making it easy to get around the city.
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Maria outside a Christmas decorated
St Regis Hotel Osaka
The European-styled rooms have magnificent city views and are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine. They also have a spacious French-style marble bathroom with a shower with four body jets, a bathtub, a built-in LCD TV, and a plush bathrobe. Perfect for relaxation after a full day of sightseeing, you even get your private butler, who can make reservations for sightseeing, dinner, and tickets!
The hotel also has a fitness gym, a business center, and a lovely rooftop Japanese garden to enjoy the city view. If you don’t want to go out for dinner, you can have an excellent Italian meal at La Veduta restaurant on the 12th floor with a great view, a drink at St Regis Bar, or some French dishes at the hotel’s cafe. And for more options, you can easily walk to the restaurant area of Dotonbori within 15 minutes or so.
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The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji
This is one of Osaka’s newest 5-star luxury hotels. The rooms look stunning with a fresh design, comfortable beds, and large bathrooms with bathtubs near the windows. It’s the perfect place to soak and relax while enjoying the city view after a day of sightseeing.
The nearest subway station, Hommachi Station, is a 5-minute walk away. From there, you are only two stops from downtown Osaka, which has attractions such as Dotombori Restaurant Street. Osaka Castle is about a 30-minute walk away, or you can easily take the subway.
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka
Hotel Resol Osaka is a mid-sized hotel with a lovely interior design. We stayed in a Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm), which was fairly small but stylishly decorated and well-equipped with air conditioning, a fridge, an electric water kettle, and a large-screen TV. The bathroom is typically Japanese compact, with a small but deep bathtub.
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We arrived late at the
Hotel Resol
Â
TrinityÂ
The hotel’s star attraction is the lovely Onsen (Japanese hot spring public bath) on the first floor, which was a joy to use in the evening after sightseeing all day. Some very convenient amenities include vending machines, icemakers, microwave ovens, and water refill stations on some floors. The laundry room on the fifth floor came in very handy with several washers and dryers.
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Our cozy Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm) at
Hotel Resol TrinityÂ
Another highlight is the friendly and helpful staff, who spoke excellent English. The rooms are cleaned every other day, but fresh towels are delivered daily.
The surrounding neighborhood is quiet, with mostly businesses, but there are some restaurants and a 7-Eleven right around the corner from the hotel. We had lunch at an excellent Vietnamese restaurant just down the street. Right next to the hotel is Cacaotier Gokan, a specialty chocolate shop with all kinds of chocolate treats.
The closest subway station is Yodoyabasji Station, just a five-minute walk away. From here, you can get to Namba Station in three stops.
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Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi
With spotlessly clean, modern rooms, tasteful decor, friendly staff, a great location, and an affordable price, Hotel Cordia Osaka has become one of Hommachi’s most popular hotels.
Room sizes vary from quite compact to spacious Premiere rooms at 40 sqm. However, even the smaller rooms, like the Basic Double (20 sqm), have a layout that uses the space very effectively. All rooms have super comfortable beds, a working desk, a seating area, strong fast Wi-Fi, and a large-screen TV with Netflix and Prime Video. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are replenished daily. The bathroom is equally modern and fresh, with a fantastic rainfall shower.
Guests can use the laundry room, vending machines, microwave oven, and ice makers.
Honmmachi Station is less than a five-minute walk away, and from there, it’s two stops to either Namba or Umeda. A 7-Eleven and a Family Mart are just down the street, and Utsubo Park is four minutes away. If you go to the park, I’d highly recommend stopping by Utsubo Bakery Panena and picking up some delicious pastries!
Breakfast is excellent, although some might find the options a little limited. Overall, this is a fantastic three-star hotel that offers serious value.
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Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott
This stylish hotel has a youthful hipster vibe. The rooms are well-equipped and have a cozy, homey atmosphere. There is a bar where a DJ plays on Fridays and Saturdays, and they have darts and table football. The location is also very convenient: it is a 5-minute walk from Sakaisuji Honamchi Subway Station, so you can quickly get around the city. You can walk to Osaka Castle in about 10 minutes.
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Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama
This elegant hotel is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Kitahama Station in a quiet business neighborhood. The rooms are big, modern, and comfortable. The hotel has a Japanese in-house restaurant, two convenience stores just opposite the hotel, and several small restaurants close by.
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Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel
A fairly new apartment hotel with various-sized apartments available. Â The largest apartment, the deluxe family room, sleeps eight people. Perfect for families or a group of friends. All apartments have a small kitchen and sitting area with large screen TV. Â Hommachi subway station is just a couple of minutes walk away, and you can easily walk to Utsubo Park. Some rooms have a balcony, and all have a private bathroom with all amenities included.
Click here for the latest prices
5. Nakanoshima Island Area
Best hotels in Nakanoshima Area:
Conrad Osaka
,
Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier
,
Hotel Cordia Osaka
The island Nakanoshima is squeezed between the two rivers Dojima-gawa and Tosabori-gawa. Naka-no-Shima used to be primarily a business district with office buildings but has, in recent years, seen something of a hipster revival.
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The riverwalk alongTosabori-gawa river
Cool restaurants, trendy fashion shops, and retro coffee shops have popped up and made this neighborhood a popular alternative base for exploring the city. There are lovely riverside walkways to explore and lots of museums, and Nakanoshima Koen Park, with its rose garden, is well worth a visit.
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The lovely Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden
Why Stay In The Nakanoshima Area?
Peaceful Residential Area With A Hipster Vibe
Naka-no-Shima is a peaceful residential area with a hipster vibe. The area has several subway stations (including Higobashi, Kitahama, and Watanebebashi) and also a couple of railway stations. Naka-no-Shima Island is only a 15-minute walk from JR Osaka Railway Station.
You can walk from Nokonoshima Island along the riverwalk to Osaka Castle in about 30-40 minutes. Along the way, you can stop off at some cozy coffee shops like Moto Coffee, Graf, or our favorite, Smorebrod Kitchen.
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Nokonoshima Island Riverwalk at night
Things To See And Do In Nakanoshima Area
Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden
A lovely riverside park with a beautiful rose garden. Also if you get hungry, check out the R Riverside Grill & Beer Garden inside the park.
Graf
Graf is a trendy coffee shop run by one of Osaka’s leading design firms. In addition to drinks and tasty cakes, the cafe is also a design shop with locally designed carts, crafts, furniture, and tableware.
Smorebrod Kitchen
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Maria having lunch at Smorebrod Kitchen
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Danish style sandwiches
Museum Of Oriental Ceramics
One of the best collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics in the world. You will also find a smaller collection of Japanese ceramics. The exhibitions are all displayed with complete English descriptions.
Have dinner at Kitahama Terrace
Head to Kitahama Terrace nearby Naniwa Bridge for dinner where many restaurants have outdoor seating with riverside views.
Osaka Central Public Hall
The building, constructed in 1913 and beautifully restored, is famous for its elegant neoclassic architecture. Today, it is used for events, concerts, and lectures.
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The elegant Osaka Central Public Hall
National Museum of Art
A subterranean museum displaying international art
The Osaka Science Museum
The museum has exhibitions on topics such as the universe, electricity, and chemistry, as well as a planetarium and daily science shows.
Where To Stay In Nakanoshima
Top-Range
Conrad Osaka
This beautiful 5-star Conrad hotel has all the luxury you would want: modern and comfortable rooms, four dining options, a heated indoor pool, and spectacular views of Osaka City.
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The absolutely stunning view from
Conrad Osaka’s lobby
The hotel has a convenient and quiet location on the Naka-no-Shima island, just between the Kita and Minami areas. By staying here, you are just a 5-minute walk from Higobashi Station, where JR Osaka Station is only a 7-minute train ride away. The hotel has spa and wellness facilities and a well-equipped gym. This is simply a fantastic luxury hotel!
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Mid-Range
Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier
Do you like Onsen (hot spring bath) just as much as I do? If so, this 4-star hotel is perfect for you! It is one of the very few hotels in Osaka with a public bath/ Onsen located on the hotel’s top floor. It has both an outdoor jacuzzi and an indoor hot pool (men and women have separate baths).
The spacious rooms are super cozy, with wooden floors and a delicate design. All rooms come with a TV, fridge, electronic kettle, and private bathroom (with bathtub and free toiletries). There are lots of restaurants, a Family Mart, and a 7-Eleven supermarket next door. You can walk to Osaka Subway Station in 12 minutes or take the free shuttle from the JR Osaka Station (a 7-minute drive from the hotel). It is close to the river, so some rooms have a fantastic riverside view.
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Hotel Cordia Osaka
This is a lovely, modern, and chic hotel that is excellent value for your money. The rooms are clean and comfortable and, by Japanese standards, fairly spacious. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from two subway stations (Higobashi Station and Yodoyabashi Station). You can borrow a smartphone for free to bring with you when you go around the city.
Click here for the latest prices
6. Osaka Castle Area
Best hotels in Osaka Castle Area:
Hotel New Otani Osaka
,
KKR Hotel Osaka
,
TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments
Osaka Castle
, or Osaka-jo, is Osaka’s biggest attraction. More than 2.5 million visitors come to see the castle and its surrounding Osaka Castle Park every year.
The castle itself is eight stories tall and is beautifully illuminated in the evenings.
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The eight-story tall Osaka Castle
For more about Osaka castle including a full walking route of all its main sights, see our
guide to Osaka Castle
.
Why Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
The main attractions here are Osaka Castle and the huge castle park. It is especially lovely in spring during cherry blossom season when hundreds of cherry blossom trees turn pink.
Beat The Crowds At Osaka Castle
If you stay in the area, you can beat the crowds and experience the castle grounds before the tour busses arrive.
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View from the top of Osaka Castle
Things To See And Do Around Osaka Castle
Osaka Museum Of History
This museum is built on the old ruins of Naniwa Palace, finished in 652 AD. Sadly it was destroyed by fire after 34 years in 686 AD. At this museum, you will learn the history of Osaka from the era of the Naniwa Palace up to the early 20th century. You get a fantastic view of Osaka Castle from the 10th floor of this museum. See the museum’s
website
for opening hours.
Picnic in the park
Do as the locals do and have a picnic on the Osaka park grounds.
Osaka Castle
The highlight of this area, and the most popular attraction in Osaka, is the stunning bright white Osaka Castle. It is a must-visit if you are in Osaka.
⇒
Read more about Osaka Castle & the best walking route here
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Maria exploring the Osaka Castle grounds
Try one of Osaka’s best French bakeries
Boulangerie Gout Bakery
& Cafe
is one of the best bakeries in Osaka. You can eat in the Cafe or bring food to the park for a picnic.
Take a riverside walk
You can walk along the riverside from Osaka Castle and end at Naka-no-Shima island.
What’s The Catch?
You’ll have no problem finding a place to eat, but if you want more options, you’ll have to take the subway or a taxi to Dotombori Restaurant Street (a 10-minute subway ride, three stops).
There aren’t many hotels within easy walking distance of the park and castle, so if you want to stay in this area, your choice of accommodation will be limited.
Where To Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
Top End
Hotel New Otani Osaka
This 5-star hotel has excellent views of Osaka Castle and the park, situated just across the river from the castle grounds. Nothing beats seeing Osaka Castle lit up at night from your hotel window. The hotel is huge, with spacious rooms and several in-house restaurants, both Japanese and international, shops, a spa/ massage, a hot tub, and a sauna. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to and from Kyoto, and the Osaka Wonder Loop Sightseeing Bus departs and arrives from the hotel. There are two subway stations close by, so you can easily get around the city.
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
KKR Hotel Osaka
If you want a spectacular view of Osaka Castle from your hotel room, then KKR Hotel Osaka is the one. The castle view from the restaurant on the 12th floor is amazing. Osaka Castle Park is just across the road from the hotel. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to the subway station every 20 minutes. Make sure you book a (renovated) castle view room with the breakfast option, as breakfast is excellent.
Click here for the latest prices
TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments
Taketo Stay is a new apartment hotel (May 2020). All rooms have a fully equipped kitchen (including a microwave, fridge, stovetop, kettle, and coffee machine), a balcony, a private bathroom with a tub and clothes washing machine, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV. This is perfect for families or those who want to be able to cook their own food. The rooms have a modern and fresh design. A subway station (Kyobashi Station) is only a 2-minute walk from the hotel.
Click here for the latest prices
7. Osaka Bay Area
Best hotels in Osaka Bay Area/ Universal Studios Japan:
Hyatt Regency Osaka
,
The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan
,
Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan
,
Hotel Universal Port Vita
,
J-Hoppers Osaka Universal
,
Hotel Lodge Maishima
The bay area of Osaka is located southwest of downtown. It is home to two entertainment hubs:
Universal Studios Japan
and Tempozan, which includes the
Osaka Aquarium
, a huge Ferris wheel, and a shopping center with lots of restaurants.
Several ferries depart and arrive at Osaka Nanko Port for destinations in Shikoku (Ehime), Kyushu (Beppu and Kagoshima, and Kita-Kyushu north of Fukuoka), and Okinawa (Naha).
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Osaka Bay area has two big entertainment hubs – Universal Studios Japan and Tempozan (with the aquarium and Ferris wheel)
Why Stay In The Osaka Bay Area?
Some Of Japan’s Biggest Tourist Attractions
The primary and really only reason to stay in the Osaka Bay area is if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, or if you’re taking the ferry to, for instance, Okinawa Islands.
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The 112m tall Tempozan Ferris Wheel
Things To See And Do In Osaka Bay Area
Universal Studios Japan
A fantastic amusement park that bursts with rides, shows, shops, and restaurants with Hollywood movie-related themes. Its highlight is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a recreating of Hogsmeade Village with its famous “Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride through Hogwart’s School.
If you would like to skip the ticket line you canÂ
buy your entry tickets online here
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Japan’s best aquarium with an impressive display of sea life from the Pacific Ocean, like Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, Arctic otters (so cute!), seals, and jellyfish. Here you can see a giant tank filled with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish. You can also see dolphins here.
You can also buy tickets
for the aquarium online
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Maria admiring the sea life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Tempozan Ferris Wheel
112 meters tall, offers a brilliant view of Osaka, Kobe, and the bay area.
What’s The Catch?
The Osaka Bay area is a bit out of town. It takes about 30 min by train to get from Osaka Bay to downtown Osaka.
The area also lacks a local Japanese vibe, as most restaurants and shopping malls around Universal Studios Japan are very American-inspired. It feels like being in the USA instead of Japan.
Where To Stay In Osaka Bay Area
Top End
Hyatt Regency Osaka
A fabulous 5-star hotel with a stunning ocean view, especially at sunset. It is located in a quiet and peaceful area right by Osaka Bay. It is popular with business travelers as it is right next to Japan’s World Trade Centre. It is an outstanding hotel with a rooftop pool (both indoor and outdoor), a spa and beauty salon, a gym, and five restaurants. You can quickly get into downtown Osaka, as the Nakafuto Subway Station is only a 3-minute walk away from the hotel.
There is a free shuttle service that takes you to/ from Osaka/ Umeda Station downtown (a 25-min ride one way). You can get to Universal Studios Japan by taking a taxi (a 15-min drive), and to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (a 10-min drive). This is a fantastic hotel to stay at if you want some luxury and peace and quiet, a lovely ocean view, and want to do day-trips to Universal Studios, Osaka Aquarium, and downtown Osaka.
Click here for the latest prices
Mid-Range
The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan
Of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan, The Park Front Hotel is the closest to the park. It is just opposite the main gate, just a few steps away from the action, and you get a great view of the park from your hotel window. The hotel design is based on a time travel concept, and as you walk through the hotel, you are transported through different decades in US history. The rooms are enormous, especially by Japanese standards.
There are several on-site restaurants, cafes, a convenience store, and shops. The hotel has a convenient location also if you want to go to downtown Osaka. You can easily walk to Universal City Station within a few minutes, where you can take the train to the downtown JR Osaka Station (a 12-minute ride) and JR Shin-Osaka Station (a 20-minute ride) to see Osaka city or get to other parts of Japan. A convenient and comfortable hotel to stay at if you want to visit Universal Studios Japan.
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Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan
The newest of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan opened in May 2019. You can easily walk to Universal Studios (5-7 min). The hotel has a stylish design with spacious, comfortable rooms (also large family rooms for up to six people).
The hotel’s terrace, spa, and Onsen/ hot bath are the perfect place to wind down after a full day of walking around in the Universal Studios park. Lots of restaurants and a big convenient store close by. Incredible bayfront view from your hotel window. Sakurajima Station is just next door, making it easy to head into Osaka city.
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Hotel Universal Port Vita
A relatively new hotel (opened in 2018) right in front of Universal Studios Japan, and one of the park’s official hotels. It is a great place to stay if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and prefer something a little more affordable than the two hotels mentioned above. The hotel’s design is inspired by the movie “Minions” (the animated film from 2015 with the little yellow characters with big eyes). Just wait till you get into the elevators! 🙂
The location is hard to beat, just opposite the Universal Citywalk Osaka shopping mall with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops and Universal City Station. Perfect for transportation into downtown Osaka or to neighboring cities like Kyoto, Himeji, and Nara. There is a convenience store on the first floor as well as laundry machines and dryers. Good value for your money, one of the cheapest official Universal Studios Japan hotels, and the service and standard is excellent! A great family hotel that is very kid-friendly.
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Budget
J-Hoppers Osaka Universal
A super cute hostel with both private rooms and dormitory (mixed and female-only). It has a great location, just a 15-min walk from Universal Studios Japan and a few minutes’ walk from Ajikawaguchi Station from where you can reach Osaka Station in 10 min by subway. You can make your own food at the shared kitchen, where coffee and tea are free. The hostel has a lounge area where they show movies in the evenings. A spotless and quiet place, and a great budget option close to Universal Studios.
Click here for the latest prices
Hotel Lodge Maishima
Hotel Lodge Maishima’s location is quite unique, on an island in Osaka Bay connected by a bridge to the mainland. It is a 3-star hotel with a restaurant, spa, and wellness center complete with Onsen/ hot spring bath. Here you stay in lodges/ cabins surrounded by beautiful nature and a vast garden.
There are several room types available from twin rooms to family rooms, all with shared bathrooms. All rooms have a terrace perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The hotel rents out bikes, and this is a great area to go for a bike ride. It’s quite far from Universal Studios but there is a train that will get you there in half an hour or you can take a taxi (15 min).
Click here for the latest prices
Summary Of The Best Areas To Stay In Osaka
Minami
Best for nightlife and entertainment
More restaurants and bars than you could ever visit
Well connected by transportation
Atmospheric old alleyways and ancient shrines
Tons of accommodation options to choose from
⇒
Read more about the Minami area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Minami hotels
Kita
Lot’s of top end and upper mid-range hotels
Plenty of restaurants and shopping malls
Osaka’s largest transport hub, with easy access by train to the rest of the Kansai region, as well the city’s subway lines
⇒
Read more about the Kita area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Kita hotels
Tennoji
Less expensive accommodation than downtown Osaka
Plenty of cheap eateries around the Shinsekai neighborhood
The iconic Tsutenkaku Tower / Osaka Tower.
Still well connected by subway
An upcoming area in large part thanks to the attraction of Japan’s tallest building, the Abeno Harukas Building.
⇒
Read more about the Tennoji area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Tennoji hotels
Hommachi
Quiet area close to downtown Osaka
Not a lot of sights but within walking distance of both Kita and Minami
Utsubo-Koen Park, one of the few parks in central Osaka
Typically lower hotel prices than in downtown
⇒
Read more about the Hommachi area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Hommachi hotels
Nakanoshima Island
An upcoming area with a hipster vibe
Cozy coffee shops, riverside view restaurants, and designer shops
Lovely park and rose garden
Surprisingly well connected
⇒
Read more about the Nakanoshima area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Nakanoshima hotels
Osaka Castle Area
Easy access to Osaka Castle and the surrounding park, the city’s most popular attraction
Especially wonderful during cherry blossom season
Not super central so hotel prices tend to be lower (with the exception of cherry blossom season)
⇒
Read more about the Osaka Castle area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Osaka Castle hotels
Osaka Bay & Universal Studios
The best area to stay in for visiting Universal Studio or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Cool, high-end, modern hotels with an American theme
If you’re planning on taking the ferry to for instance the Okinawa Islands
A little out of the way for exploring the rest of Osaka
⇒
Read more about the Osaka Bay area
⇒
Click here for our recommended Osaka Bay / Universal Studio hotels
There you have it, our favorite Osaka areas and accommodations with our recommended Osaka hotels in the five different areas of the city. Hopefully, you now know a bit more about Osaka’s many areas, and deciding where to stay in Osaka has become a little easier.
Where you should stay in Osaka depends on what you want to get out of your visit. Check out our
Osaka Itinerary
for tips on what to do in Osaka.
Have a fantastic stay in Osaka! ♥
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We intend to add more hotels and info about Osaka to this Osaka hotel guide in the future. So please let us know if you have any suggestions and tips about Osaka! What is your favorite area and hotel in Osaka? Do you miss any information in this “Where to stay in Osaka” guide? Please leave a comment in the comment area below. We would love to hear from you! Thank you! |
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# Where To Stay In Osaka – Our Favourite Areas & Hotels
[by Espen Egeland](https://nerdnomads.com/about/ "View all posts by Espen Egeland")
*Last updated Aug 28, 2024* \|
[11 Comments](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comments)
Dear Reader: We may get commissions for purchases made through links in this article, at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the site running and free for all. Thank you!❤️
Right in the heart of the Kansai region of Japan, and surrounded in every direction by some of Japan’s most famous sights, lies the modern metropolitan city of Osaka. Famous for its dazzling neon-lit entertainment district, its world-class food, and its friendly people, Osaka has become a popular base for exploring the region. However, with Osaka being Japan’s third-largest city (with a population of 2,7 million people), deciding where to stay in Osaka can easily start to feel quite overwhelming.
Osaka isn’t always on the “must-sees in Japan” lists, lacking those world-famous sights that its neighbor Kyoto is so known for. In fact, we skipped Osaka on our first couple of trips to Japan, but once we did set foot in this energetic city, it ended up being one of our favorite “big” cities. Osaka’s combination of affordable accommodation, world-class food at every street corner, and super convenient location for day trips around Japan won us over.
We love that, with just a short train ride, you can explore the [temples of Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/kyoto-itinerary), the historic city of Nara, the charming port town of Kobe, and our favorite castle in Japan, the famous [Himeji castle](https://nerdnomads.com/himeji-castle).
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Stall serving Osaka’s famous Takoyaki – balls made of wheat flour and filled with octopus.
Osaka city itself has plenty to offer, too, from Osaka Castle to the famous neon-lit Dotonbori entertainment district to the view from the top of Japan’s second tallest building, from vibrant food markets to centries old eateries, from top-notch luxury shopping to nerdy manga geekery heaven. While it lacks the ancient temples and beautiful Japanese gardens that we all love, it makes up for it with its energy, relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food.
By the way, for more details on what to do in Osaka see our [complete and detailed two-day Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary).
In fact, we fell in love with Osaka the first time we visited it in 2019, and we keep coming back to the city on all our Japan trips. 🙂
One of the results of all our visits to Osaka is this guide on where to stay in Osaka with all the little hotel gems we could find. Here we reveal what we think are the best areas to stay in Osaka and why. For each area, we have listed our favorite hotels at any budget – Top-End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
**Latest Updates:** In 2023/24, we spent three months in Japan researching new travel guides and updating our existing guides. This time, we spent about two weeks in Osaka, and this guide to Osaka’s best accommodation has been thoroughly updated with new hotel recommendations and expanded area descriptions.
## Where To Stay In Osaka
Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury hotel, a small, intimate boutique hotel, a value-for-money business hotel, or a budget guesthouse or hostel, Osaka will deliver.
Finding that perfect hotel or guesthouse for your trip really depends on your plans and preferences. Are you in town primarily to see the city attractions, or do you plan to take a lot of day trips to the surrounding sights? Do you prefer a local quiet neighborhood, or do you want easy access to Osaka’s famous neon-lit nightlife?
Osaka is a big city that covers a lot of ground, so it’s worth considering staying somewhere central.
Thankfully, Osaka has an excellent transportation system with subways covering the city well. The **Midosuji subway line**, in particular, is super convenient as it crosses through the town, connecting the most popular areas and will get you almost everywhere.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Rikuros-Cheesecake-Osaka-Japan.jpg)
Osaka’s famous fluffy cheesecake at Rikuro’s
You can easily do day trips from Osaka to [Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/kyoto-itinerary) (a 25-minute train ride), [Himeji Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/himeji-castle) (30 minutes), Kobe (30 minutes), and Nara (1 hour). And if you get up really early in the morning, you can even do day trips to [Hiroshima](https://nerdnomads.com/peace-memorial-ceremony-hiroshima) (1 h, 20 min) and [Koyasan](https://nerdnomads.com/koyasan-travel-guide) (2 hours).
What Osaka does lack is Kyoto’s many Ryokans (traditional Japanese Inns). So if you have your heart set on staying in a Ryokan, Kyoto is the better choice. Have a look at [our article on where to stay in Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-kyoto) for our recommendations on Kyoto’s best hotels and Ryokans.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lumination-Osaka.jpg)
Beautiful Christmas illuminations in the street outside the hotel we stayed at, Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
One reason Osaka has become a popular place to stay is that accommodation here is generally considered to be fairly affordable compared to, for instance, Kyoto. While areas such as Kita and Minima have plenty of top-notch luxury hotels, other areas, such as Tennoji and around Osaka Castle, are more budget-friendly.
Also, during holidays and special occasions such as Cherry Blossom season, Kyoto gets packed with tourists, and the hotels fill up and get sold out. It can be much easier to find a vacant hotel room in Osaka and instead go on day trips to Kyoto from here.
***Important: None of the hotels recommended here are paid placements or have sponsored our stay in any way. We always pay for our own travel. If you book through any of the links in this article, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our site running – so thank you in advance for your support! ♥***
We hope you find this guide helpful in finding the best place to stay in Osaka\!
## The 7 Best Areas To Stay In Osaka

*The seven best areas to stay in Osaka: 1. Minami (purple) 2. Kita (black), 3. Tennoji (orange), 4. Hommachi (green), 5. Nakanoshima (red), 6. Osaka Castle (brown), 7. Osaka Bay (blue)*
The following seven areas are the best areas to stay in Osaka (in our opinion):
1. **Minami Area – Downtown Osaka**
The downtown area of Osaka has many restaurants, shops, markets, and hotels. It includes the neighborhoods of Namba, Shinsaibashi, Dotombori, Hommachi, and Amerika-Mura.
2. **Kita Area**
Osaka’s business district is considered part of downtown Osaka, with lots of restaurants and shops. It is also Osaka’s best-connected transport hub, with JR Osaka Station (direct trains to Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Kobe). It is a convenient area to stay in if you plan on making day trips from Osaka.
3. **Tennoji Area**
The old part of Osaka, with Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas. Lots of cheap restaurants in the Shinsekai neighborhood. Relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly accommodation.
4. **Hommachi Area**
Hommachi is between Osaka’s two downtown areas (Minami and Kita). However, it is much quieter, with office buildings and residential houses.
5. **Nakanoshima Area**
A small island squeezed between two rivers. It is a business district but has seen a hipster revival in recent years, with cozy cafes and coffee shops.
6. **Osaka Castle Area**
Osaka’s biggest tourist attraction.
7. **Osaka Bay Area**
The main reason for staying here is if you plan to visit Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan or take the ferry to, for instance, the Okinawa Islands.
Keep reading to find a detailed description, our personal opinion, and our photos of each of these seven best areas to stay in Osaka. We recommend hotels in Osaka for each area at three different price ranges: Top End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
Hope you find this hotel guide to Osaka useful. Please comment at the bottom of this article if you have any thoughts or questions. Enjoy your stay in Osaka! ♥
Table of Contents:
- [1\. Minami Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#1_minami_area)
- [2\. Kita Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#2_kita_area)
- [3\. Tennoji Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#3_tennoji_area)
- [4\. Hommachi Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#4_hommachi_area)
- [5\. Nakanoshima Island Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#5_nakanoshima_island_area)
- [6\. Osaka Castle Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#6_osaka_castle_area)
- [7\. Osaka Bay Area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#7_osaka_bay_area)
- [Summary Of The Best Areas To Stay In Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#summary_of_the_best_areas_to_stay_in_osaka)
***
### 1\. Minami Area
Osaka’s Neon-Lit Downtown

*Best hotels in Minami Area: [Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka), [Swissotel Nankai Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka?clickref=_amcid-xAbVrUArpr3lJirAIMpO6), [Hotel The Leben Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka), [Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Irq2pEVbUsgPgAbVmr7sQ), [Cross Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka?clickref=_amcid-VEiQA2VMBEV7ex63UVMJA), [Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel?clickref=_amcid-mb3UFspqJli6NOUmOpJMo), [Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka?clickref=_amcid-zO63OI3oxxoEbZNobmiOO), [Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka?clickref=_amcid-zIZiAIg2zp7UPUIMZ2x2m), [Kamon Hotel Namba](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka?clickref=_amcid-mUrFmUsMNFVU6YsYEOpiz)*
Minami, meaning “*South*,” is Osaka’s most famous **entertainment district**, with an abundance of bars, restaurants, and shops. This area comes to life after dark when the restaurant streets are filled with both locals and tourists indulging in the famous Osaka food culture.
Minami includes the neighborhoods of **Namba**, **Shinsaibashi**, **Dotombori**, **Hommachi**, and **Amerika-Mura**.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Dotombori-Osaka.jpg)
Dotombori is Osaka´s most famous and lively restaurant street, with its colorful display of neon signs
The area is usually simply referred to as **Namba**. The name comes from the subway station of the same name that lies at its center. Here lies several of Osaka’s most popular attractions, including Osaka’s best food market—the Kuromon Ichiba Market—the old Hozen-ji Temple, and the atmospheric Hozen-jo Yokocho Alley.
But the main attraction is Dotombori, the famous strip of restaurants, food stalls, and bars that line both sides of the canal and display the wildest, most colorful display of neon signs anywhere. It’s the kind of spectacle that takes your breath away. You can spend hours just wandering the side streets, trying out the local specialties, snapping photos, and exploring the small bars and narrow alleys. It’s great fun\!
#### Why Stay In The Minami/ Namba Area?
##### **World-Class Entertainment and Dining**
The Namba area is the city center of Osaka, famous for its vibrant street food and nightlife. It is also home to most of the restaurants, cafes, shops, and pubs that have earned Osaka the title of Japan’s food capital.
Staying in the Minami/ Namba area puts you right in the middle of the action, and there is always something new to see and do or something to eat around the next corner.
##### **Lots of Accommodation Options**
This is Osaka’s most famous and visited area, and as such, there is no shortage of hotels and guesthouses offering accommodation no matter what your budget is.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Dotombori-River-Osaka.jpg)
Dotombori Canal runs through the Minami area
##### **Lots To Explore**
From famous food markets to old shrines and atmospheric alleyways, Minami is a real treat to explore. There is always a photo opportunity lurking around every corner.
##### **Convenient Access To Subway And Trains**
It is also very well connected, and you can easily base yourself in Namba and explore Osaka city from here. There are two large subway stations, The Namba Subway Station and the Shinsaibashi Subway Station, both on the Mido-suji Subway Line.
For day trips outside the city, you can also take the train to/ from the JR Namba Railway Station, where the Yamatoji Railway Line stops, or use the Nankai Line and the Kintetsu Line. This makes it easy to go on trips to, for instance, Wakayama or Nara from Minami.
And if you’re a foodie, there is really no place better to be\!
#### Things To See And Do In The Minami / Namba Area
- **Dotombori**
Dotombori is the place to head to in the evenings. This is where most restaurants, bars, and pubs are located, and the whole neighborhood transforms into a bustling and energetic street market after dark. The area is famous for all its neon signs, especially the weird and wonderful giant wall signs depicting blowfish, crabs, and other creatures. It is a trendy photo spot. Perhaps the most popular motive is the famous neon sign that depicts the Glico man, also known as the running man.
Check out our [Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary) for our recommended walking route, which covers all the main sights of the Dotombori and Amerika-mura area.
- **Amerika-Mura**
A hip and trendy neighborhood packed with cool shops, cafes, bars, and nightclubs inspired by American streetwear and culture.
- **Nippombashi & Kuromon Ichiba Market**
Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s best food market and a must-visit for foodies. A great way to experience this market is by [joining a food tour with a local guide](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_market_food_tour).
- **Hozen-ji Temple & Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley**
A tiny temple with moss-covered stone figures hidden in an atmospheric stone-brick alley with old traditional restaurants and bars.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Hozen-ji-Yokocho-Alley-Osaka.jpg)
Cozy atmosphere and several old traditional restaurants in Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley
- **Shinsaibashi**
Go shopping along the two parallel shopping streets, Midosuji Avenue and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. Here, you will find everything from luxury international brands to budget shops.
- **Namba Yasaka Shrine** The astonishing Namba Yasaka Shrine, with its giant roaring lion head, is quite the sight and well worth a visit.
- **Modern Shopping Malls** With huge shopping malls like Takashiyama and the recently opened Namba Parks Mall, the area is a shopper’s paradise.
#### What’s The Catch?
The Minami/ Namba area is very busy and crowded after dark, and it lasts until the early hours, especially on weekends and public holidays.
#### Where To Stay In Minami Area
##### Top End
***[Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)*** If you’re looking for a new, modern, top-end hotel in the heart of Namba, the 5-star Centara Grand Hotel Osaka is a great choice! Its fantastic location right next to the recently opened Namba Parks Shopping Mall, with 120 shops and restaurants and a direct walkway to the Namba Subway Station, makes it an excellent base for exploring the city.
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We loved the view from our stylish Superior King Room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor at [Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)
We stayed in a Superior King room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor. After a few weeks of staying at fairly basic hotels while exploring rural Japan, it was fantastic to have such a spacious and comfortable room. The beds were heavenly, and the flat-screen TV was one of the biggest I’ve ever seen in a hotel room. With floor-to-ceiling windows, we had fantastic views overlooking the city. Even the bathroom had floor-to-ceiling windows.
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Loved the interior design
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Bathroom
There was also a large walk-in closet and a seating area with a comfortable chair and table. In the bathroom, the toilet room was separate from the rainwater shower and bathtub, perfect for uninterrupted soaking in the bathtub.
One evening, we treated ourselves to room service from the hotel’s restaurant. The menu is extensive, with Asian and Western options, but since the hotel is Thai-owned, we ordered some of our favorite Thai dishes. They were super tasty and surprisingly affordable for a five-star hotel.
We also had a chance to test out the fitness center, and it is excellent. It is spacious and has a large selection of machines and free weights. We had a fantastic time here and hope to be back again.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)
***[Swissotel Nankai Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka)***
Swissotel Nankai Osaka has a fantastic location. It is directly connected to the Namba Nankai Railway Station and Namba Subway Station and right next to the huge Takashimaya department store. You can walk to all the action in neon-lit Dotonbori in about 10 minutes, and hundreds of restaurants and shops are around the area.
Apart from its amazing location, the Swissotel Nankai offers everything you’d want from a five-star hotel. The rooms are large and comfortable, the service friendly and professional, and there is an excellent fitness center, a spa, and even a full-sized swimming pool. There are seven in-house dining options, serving a variety of cousins. Breakfast is buffet style and is served on the 36th floor with a fantastic view of the city.
If you’re arriving from the airport, the 30-minute express train stops at the Namba station, and you can take the elevator directly up to the hotel lobby.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
*[**Hotel The Leben Osaka**](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)*
This stylish design hotel has cozy, comfortable, spacious rooms and a great location in a quiet neighborhood. Perfect for a good night’s sleep while still being within easy walking distance of Dotonburi’s action.
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Maria checking out of [Hotel The Leben Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)
We stayed in a Standard Twin Room on the 3rd floor, which was 30 sqm and very spacious. The beds were excellent, and the room had a fridge, an electric kettle, a sofa, and a large-screen smart TV.
We are very used to the so-called smart TVs not being quite as clever as advertised, but the screen mirroring worked here! We ended up watching a film while eating a pizza from nearby La Gologsetta (highly recommended if you like authentic Italian-style pizza!).
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We stayed in this fantastic Standard Twin Room (30 sqm) at Hotel The Leben Osaka
The bathroom was equally excellent. It was spacious, squeaky clean, and had our preferred layout of separate rooms for the toilet and bathtub/shower.
The cozy lobby has seating areas and complimentary drinks, including flavors of fruit-infused water, coffee lattes, and an assortment of tea. If you need to do laundry, washing machines are available on the third floor.
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Maria is planning our day in the lobby of [Hotel The Leben Osaka](<http://The Leben>)
One night, we were awoken by the fire alarm at five in the morning and got to meet all the other guests in the lobby in our pajamas! Thankfully, it was soon discovered to be a false alarm. This sort of thing could happen anywhere, and the staff handled it perfectly with smiles and professional calm.
Hotel The Leben comes highly recommended if you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in a quiet yet central location. We loved it\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)
[***Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
Citadines Namba Osaka is a gorgeous 4-star hotel housed in one of Osaka’s grandest old buildings. This apartment hotel has spacious rooms with a seating area, private bathrooms, and a small kitchen. The rooms have a lovely and fresh design.
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Citadines Namba Osaka
We stayed in a Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) on the 2nd floor. Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are also available. Our apartment had a kitchen with a dining table, a full-sized fridge, a large flat-screen TV, a microwave oven, a stove, and a complete set of kitchen utensils. The beds were the most comfortable we had in Osaka. We could seriously have lived here long-term\!
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Our cozy Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) at [Citadines Namba Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
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Super comfy beds\!
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Kitchen
If there were a downside to our apartment, it would have to be the bathroom, which was relatively small and had little space to put our toiletry bags.
Apart from that, we were very impressed with the Citadines Namba. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the cafe downstairs, where we enjoyed our welcome drinks, was super cozy.
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Maria is enjoying her welcome drink at the lobby cafe
Every floor has a water dispenser, ice machine, and vending machine. On the sixth floor is a large shared kitchen and lounge with free tea and coffee. It was great to finally be able to do our laundry (the fifth floor has washers and dryers).
The hotel also has a fitness center, a kid’s playroom, and a bar. The famous Kuromon Ichiba Market is just up the street from the hotel, and you can easily walk to Dotonburi. There is a food court in the same building, as well as a 7-Eleven and a Family Mart right around the corner. It is a very convenient hotel.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
***[Cross Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka)*** With a location just next to the Dotonbori Canal and Ebisu Bridge, staying at the Cross Hotel puts you right in the middle of the most central area of Osaka. Dotonbori, with its neon signs and restaurants, is right across the canal, a short walk away (2 min).
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Cross-Hotel-Osaka.jpg)
The cool entrance at Cross Hotel Osaka
Cross Hotel rooms are modern, stylish, and comfortable. They have free Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, air conditioning, a TV, and all the necessary toiletries.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and cafe, but Dotonbori, with all its restaurants, is just outside your door. Namba subway station is a 3-minute walk away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka)
[***Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel)
A modern and stylish hotel (opened May 2019) with an excellent location – close to a large 7-Eleven, a Family Mart, and Hard Rock Cafe (we had takeaway burgers, which we ate in our room, and they were delicious!). There is also a Starbucks in the same building as the hotel. You can easily walk to the restaurant street in Dotonbori within 15 min.
Hommachi Subway Station is only 200 m from the hotel. From here, you can take the green Chuo Line (to, for instance, Osaka Castle), the red Midosuji Line (to the restaurant area Dotombori), and the blue Yotsubashi Line (to the entertainment area Shinsekai). You can also walk to Shinsaibashi Station in 8 minutes. So this is a convenient hotel to stay at to easily go around the city.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Osaka-Excel-Hotel-Tokyu.jpg)
Our Superior Twin Room (33 sqm) at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
We L-O-V-E-D our room, a Superior Twin Room! It was a big (33 sqm), bright, and delicate room with a huge comfortable bed, a sofa, a table, a big TV, a chair, two complimentary water bottles, a fridge, and a kettle. We also got robes, slippers, and all kinds of toiletries. The bathroom was huge, too, which is rare in Japan. We had a great view of Osaka city and a small temple next door. We slept like babies as the room was very soundproof, and there was no noise from either the street or the neighboring rooms.
The hotel has fully automatic washing machines on the 6th floor, which is very convenient. Some floors have washing machines and microwave ovens. The hotel has a nice restaurant, a bar, and a gym.
The free Wi-Fi in our room was super fast. We watched cross-country skiing and biathlon from a Norwegian TV channel, which worked smoothly. The room also has a spacious safe, which could fit both our laptops (13″ and 15″). We stayed seven nights at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu because we loved it so much. We used it as our base while we did day trips to surrounding cities.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel)
***[***Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka)*** This stunning boutique hotel has an urban, relaxed, Scandinavian-style style. It has the perfect location: right in the heart of Shinsaibashi, close to the Dotonbori area with all its restaurants and bars, but far enough away for a good night’s sleep.
The rooms are very comfortable and modern, with excellent bathrooms and a good shower. This is a great boutique-type hotel with free coffee and laundry facilities. The breakfast is decent, and you can use the neighboring gym. It is just a five-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Subway Station.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka)
A new and modern 4-star budget hotel (opened March 2019) with a convenient location right by Namba Station (200 m). If you’re arriving from Kansai International Airport you can take the direct airport train to Nankai Namba station.
The rooms are fairly spacious by Japanese standards, with everything you need from toiletries, a bathtub, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a kettle, and a fridge. An extra bonus is the foot massage machine in your room (!), which is perfect after a long day of walking and sightseeing around Osaka. There is an excellent buffet-style breakfast with plenty of options available. Each afternoon, the friendly staff arranges a happy hour where you can enjoy free iced tea, ice cream, and even sake\!
The famous food heaven Kuromon Market is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and the restaurant and pub street Dotonbori is a short 10-minute walk away. The Hiyori Hotel offers excellent value for the money.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka)
[***Kamon Hotel Namba***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka)
A lovely boutique budget hotel/hostel with a stylish and cozy Japanese design. Everything from the cool entrance with the Japanese curtain panels covering the front door to the simple but comfortable rooms is very sleek and welcoming. They have standard double rooms for two people and family rooms with bunk beds, which can house up to six people. The rooms are small, but who comes to Osaka to sleep and stay inside the room anyway. 🙂
Breakfast is surprisingly excellent for the price, and the cozy common areas, especially the rooftop terrace, is a great place to relax and socialize. It is hard to fault its location either, with Osaka’s most famous food market, Kuromon Market, just across the street from the hotel and Namba Station, and Dotombori both less than a 10-minute walk away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka)
***
### 2\. Kita Area
Osaka’s Business District & Transportation Hub

*Best hotels in Kita Area: [The Ritz-Carlton Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka?clickref=_amcid-6NYFzFImAzzo2EeVo2Jri), [InterContinental Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka?clickref=_amcid-PQ6Ars3EqZEYIlZsIBsBU), [Zentis Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka), [Harmonie Embrassee](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZVq7ONp6QrQFpeQBIbUxp), [Hotel Noum OSAKA](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZNbpog3ZQIQABMioJx2OU), [Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka?clickref=_amcid-oJEqUzJ222sOJlZ3ieP7U), [Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka?clickref=_amcid-2MYP2NB2m66gJggqlYFUN)*
Kita, meaning “*North*“, is considered Osaka’s business district with its tall modern skyscrapers and office buildings. Kita may lack a little of the local Japanese flavor, but it still is one of the best areas to stay in Osaka, with large department stores and shopping complexes with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
It’s a pleasant and safe area to explore on foot with its pedestrian-friendly wide sidewalks, and it also has its fair share of sights, with the spectacular Umeda Sky building as our personal favorite.
Kita is also arguably the best-connected area in Osaka. No less than four train lines converge here, as does the Midosuji subway, which stops at its center. This makes it an excellent base for exploring the city and taking day trips to the surrounding sights.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Views-Umeda-Sky-Building-Osaka.jpg)
Kita area is the business district of Osaka
#### Why Stay In The Kita Area?
##### **Modern And Convenient With Some of Osaka’s Best Hotels**
Kita is not as busy as Minami, though it is still considered part of downtown Osaka. This business district is where you find many of the city’s international luxury and upper-midrange hotels.
While there is no shortage of restaurants, the area gets fairly quiet at night, perfect for a good night’s sleep. If you prefer to party the night away, you’re just a short hop away from Dotonbori’s nightlife.
##### **Osaka’s Best-Connected Transportation Hub**
Kita is the perfect area to stay in if you want easy access to transportation to the neighboring cities. Some highlights of the transportation options in Kita include:
- **JR Osaka Station** – Osaka’a largest train station. From here you can take the JR Osaka Loop Line, JR Kyoto Line, and JR Kobe Line.
- **Umeda Subway Station** – Osaka’s largest subway station provides easy access to the Midosuji line. From here, you can quickly reach the Shinkansen trains at Shin-Osaka station.
- **JR Kansai Rapid Airport** – If you’re landing at Kansai Airport, the direct Kansai Rapid Airport train makes it easy to get to Kita.
- **Keihan, Hankyu, and Hanshin lines** – These lines connect Osaka to many of its neighbors.
In short, from Kita, you can travel almost anywhere, and there are direct trains to Nara, Kobe, Kyoto, and Himeji.
#### Things To See And Do In Kita Area
- **Umeda Sky Building**
The 173-meter-tall building has a super cool open-air observation deck on its top floor. Here, you get a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka city. Even the escalator ride up to the top floor is cool, almost like a spaceship.
If you prefer to skip the ticket line, you can [buy your tickets online](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_umeda_sky_building_ticket)
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View from the Umeda Sky building
- **O-hatsu Tenjin Shrine**
This 1300-year-old shrine is located in the middle of tall modern skyscrapers. The shrine is famous for the dramatic events that happened here in 1703 and was later depicted in one of Japan’s best known tragic plays. It is a sad love story between a prostitute and a wealthy merchant, who both committed suicide at the temple to remain together forever in the afterlife.
- **Kid’s Plaza Osaka** A museum dedicated to teaching kids through play, hands-on learning, and workshops.
#### What’s The Catch?
While there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, Kita cannot quite match the nightlife in the Minami area with Dotombori and its hundreds of restaurants. Its modern architecture means it lacks Minami’s historic buildings and old, cozy alleyways.
#### Where To Stay In Kita Area
##### Top End
[***The Ritz-Carlton Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka)
It’s hard to go wrong with the Ritz Carlton, and the Osaka hotel is no exception. A stunning 5-star hotel with world-class service and a perfect location, only a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a 5-minute walk from Nishi-Umeda Subway Station. And should you feel like staying in one evening, Ritz-Carlton has no less than five in-house restaurants, whereas one, the La Baie, is a Michelin-starred French restaurant.
The decor is inspired by classic European luxury with spacious and elegantly decorated rooms with spectacular views across the city from the 24th floor. The hotel has a swimming pool as well as a spa center with a gym.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka)
[***InterContinental Hotel Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka)
Intercontinental Osaka is a superb luxury hotel with everything you would expect from its 5-star status. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated, and comfortable and include a large flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a Bose sound system, a mini-bar, tea and coffee, a safety deposit box, and even a walk-in closet. Standard rooms are located between floors 21 and 26, with fantastic views across Osaka’s skyline, and larger two—and three-bedroom apartments are available on higher floors.
The hotel also has a convenient location, only a 5-minute walk from the JR Osaka Railway Station and a 7-minute walk from Umeda Subway Station. Its neighbor is the Grand Front Osaka shopping mall, which has lots of shops and restaurants. You can rent bicycles free of charge from the hotel, which is a cool way to explore Osaka.
With its five in-house restaurants and bars, an excellent 24-hour gym, a spa, and an indoor swimming pool, the InterContinental is a great choice if you want to splurge on a few nights of luxury or are celebrating a special occasion.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Zentis Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka)
Zentis Osaka is a fairly new mid-sized hotel with a quiet yet central location. The rooms are modern and nicely designed, with hardwood floors, comfortable beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, a sofa, a fridge, and a seating area. The enormous flat screen has an Apple TV that provides streaming services like Netflix.
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Our Studio Room at Zentis Osaka
We stayed in a Studio Room (25 sqm) on the ground floor, and the layout was a bit unique. The bedroom and shower are separated by a glass wall, with roll-down blinds for privacy when showering. It worked well, but it may not be ideal for everyone. We really liked that the “kitchen” had a full set of cups and plates.
The lobby is fantastic! It is very cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of books, free coffee and tea, and even a fireplace\!
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Maria is exploring the book selection at [Zentis’s Osaka’s](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka) cozy lobby.
The second floor has a fitness center, a laundry room, and a vending machine.
We chose to book without breakfast, so we didn’t get to try that, but there are plenty of great places to eat breakfast nearby. There is also a Family Mart and a McDonalds right next door. We walked to Osaka Station in about 10 minutes.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka)
[***Harmonie Embrassee***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka)
The Harmonie Embrassee is a little gem of a hotel that, in many ways, is a match for the more expensive 5-star hotels. It’s simply super comfortable and clean, with surprisingly large rooms (enough space for several suitcases), friendly staff, and incredible city views through large windows. The location is equally top-notch, with Hankyu Umeda Station only 3 minutes away by foot and JR Osaka Station less than 10 minutes.
The spacious rooms have a super comfortable bed, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, a fridge, and a coffee machine. And you get bathrobes and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony where you can enjoy the city view. It is simply a great place to stay and offers excellent value for the money\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka)
***[Hotel Noum OSAKA](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka)*** This stylish hotel opened in August 2019 and has a cool and relaxed hipster vibe. The rooms are not the most spacious, but they have everything you need and are super cozy. The design is Scandinavian-inspired, with large windows that face the river.
Downstairs, there is a fantastic bar, cafe, and breakfast area, and there are washing/dryer machines on some of the floors.
You can easily walk to Osaka Castle within 20 minutes (walk across Tenma Bridge). With a friendly staff and a central location in a lovely neighborhood with cute cafes and restaurants, the Noum Osaka is a great choice.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka)
Have you seen the movie “The Great Gatsby” from 2013 starring Leonardo DiCaprio? This hotel is like taken out of that movie! It has the same 20th-century design and vibe to it. Even the hotel’s cafe and bar is called Gatsby, which I find very fitting. An extra bonus is the free welcome drink in the Gatsby bar.
The rooms are small but very stylish, clean, and comfortable, and they all come with a private bathroom with a bathtub. You can’t beat the price and the location; just a 5-10 min walk from JR Osaka Station, with lots of restaurants and shopping streets right around the corner. A good deal\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka)
[***Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka)
I love the design of this hotel, especially the welcoming lobby area with its cozy seating. Well-equipped, although small rooms, with a relaxed vibe. Good location not far from Umeda Station (a 10-min walk). The price is a real bonus for this central location. Modern and clean, the hotel opened in October 2018, so still relatively new. The complimentary breakfast is okay, coffee, bread, and muffins, but nothing special. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka)
***
### 3\. Tennoji Area
Osaka’s Old Town

*Best hotels in Tennoji Area: [Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka?clickref=_amcid-7JsiFVQONe3l77qQ7AAQr), [Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka?clickref=_amcid-sqr36oEqoxY2bmE3EUFbO), [Khaosan World Tennoji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-2e3OQbOqireYmF7OF6VOI)*
Tennoji is the old part of Osaka. It lies just south of Minami, and you can easily walk between these two areas.
Once, it had a reputation as a slightly seedy area, but Tennoji has seen quite a revival in recent years, especially since Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas, finished construction in 2014.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Shinsekai-area-Osaka-Japan.jpg)
Tennoji is the old part of Osaka with lots of cheap restaurants and pubs. Here is the Shinsekai neighborhood with its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.
The area around Shinsekai is very photogenic, with Osaka’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, Tsutenkaku Tower, at its center.
#### Why Stay In The Tennoji Area?
##### **Cheap And Plentiful Food**
This area has many cheap restaurants, especially in the Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji. Many of the restaurants here specialize in Kushikatsu, battered, deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers, which goes perfectly with a beer or two.
##### **Relaxed Atmosphere And Budget-Friendly Accommodation**
Tennoji is more relaxed than busy Minami, though it has a bustling bar and restaurant street. It is also a great area to look for budget accommodation.
##### **Well Connected**
Tennoji station is very well connected, being on the main Midosuji line and the Osaka loop line.
#### Things To See And Do In Tennoji Area
- **Shinsekai Neighborhood**
Shinsekai meaning “New World”, has become the old town of Osaka. It used to be a cutting-edge amusement park, but time has transformed it into a cool entertainment district full of cheap restaurants and bars with a retro vibe.
- **Tsutenkaku Tower**
The 103-meter-tall tower, also called Osaka Tower, is located in the Shinsekai Neighborhood and is a landmark in Osaka. Inside, you will find a nostalgic entertainment arcade /pachinko, mahjong parlors, and an observation deck.
- **Abeno Harukas Building**
While the Tokyo Sky Tree is Japan’s tallest structure the Abeno Harukas Building in Osaka is Japan’s tallest building with its 300 meters. It has an observation deck on the top floor, and although it is not open-air, you get a fantastic 360-degree view of Osaka City through the large floor-to-roof windows. Inside is Japan’s largest department store, a small open-air atrium, and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum.
Quick tip: if you want to skip the ticket line, [you can buy your tickets online here.](https://nerdnomads.com/go/abeno_harukas_ticket)
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The observation deck at Abeno Harukas – Japan’s tallest building
- **Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine**
An ancient Buddhist Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea and sea travel was built in the 3rd century. The grounds are crisscrossed by a waterway lined with trees and lanterns. The canal also has a beautiful bright orange drum bridge.
- **Tennoji Zoo** This zoo opened in 1915 and is the home of about 1000 animals of 170 different species.
- **Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts**
#### What’s The Catch?
The Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji is starting to show its age and some parts are frankly looking a little run down.
It also gets busy and loud in the evenings, especially during weekends and public holidays, when the crowds flock to the many restaurants and pubs in search of cheap food and drinks.
#### Where To Stay In Tennoji Area
##### Top End
[***Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka)
This is an excellent 5-star hotel with a great location in the Abeno Harukas building, Japan’s tallest building! The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with everything you expect from an international luxury hotel. Since they are all located above the 38th floor, the view is simply unbeatable.
You get free tickets to visit the Abeno Harukas rooftop observation deck (part of our [recommended Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary)). Guests can work out at the fitness center in the Abeno Harukas building and shop at the giant Kintetsu Department Store (with many restaurants and shops) located on the lower floors of the building. The hotel has direct access to Tennoji Station, where you can take five different subway lines and two JR Lines, so it is very convenient for getting around Osaka and elsewhere in Japan. One of the best luxury hotels in Osaka\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka)
We stayed at Hotel Trusty in Kanazawa and loved it! It is a great hotel chain with excellent service and hospitality. It is just across the street from the lovely Tennoji Park, which is beautifully lit in the evenings. This Hotel Trusty has the perfect location, right next to Tennoji Station (JR trains, subway, and local trains), making it easy to get around Osaka and neighboring cities.
There are also plenty of restaurants and shopping options nearby, and the hotel has an in-house Japanese restaurant serving teppanyaki, where the chef cooks the food on an iron plate in front of you. The rooms are decent sized, with enough space to open the suitcases and walk around comfortably.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Khaosan World Tennoji***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka)
A charming Japanese-style hostel with both private and dormitory rooms. All rooms have air-conditioning, heating, and a private bathroom with a shower. You can also use the cozy common areas like the shared kitchen and a lounge with tatami (woven-straw mat) floors. After a long day of sightseeing, you can soak your feet in the hotel’s foot bath. There is a vending machine with complimentary coffee, tea, water, and sports drinks. Breakfast is basic but filling, with a choice of toast and soup. You can easily walk to Tennoji Station, and the Abeno Harukas Building is just 10 minutes away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka)
***
### 4\. Hommachi Area
Quiet Residential Area

*Best hotels in Hommachi Area: [St Regis Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka?clickref=_amcid-VbmxJEeNPNYzAqVBFUE2z), [The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-JMYqPZ677AoNm277xgJUb), [Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka), [Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi), [Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka?clickref=_amcid-M63VZs2BIi7qmMEQBp3ZU), [Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka?clickref=_amcid-BzEFeel7ZrIrPVBebZrB3), [Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka?clickref=_amcid-bArBQYJlJplg3ppx2bVMU)*
Osaka’s downtown area is split into two areas, Kita to the north and Minami to the south. Right in the middle of them lies Hommachi, a much quieter neighborhood that is, for the most part, office and residential in nature.
Apart from one of central Osaka’s most popular parks, Utsubo Park, there aren’t many sights to see here. However, there are some excellent hotels in the area, and prices here generally tend to be lower than downtown.
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Hommachi is a predominantly residential area with Utsubo Park as its centerpiece.
Hommachi has its own subway station on the Midosuji line, so you can use the subway to get around. The area’s central location also means that if you, like us, love to walk, you can walk to both Kita and Minami.
#### Why Stay In Hommachi
##### **Quiet Yet Central**
If you prefer to stay in a quiet area and still be able to walk to downtown Osaka, then Hommachi is an excellent choice.
##### **Some Excellent Hotels At More Affordable Prices**
There are some excellent hotels in the Hommachi area, and since it is considered slightly less central, accommodation prices tend to be lower than in more central areas.
Utsubo-Koen Park is another reason to stay in Hommachi. It provides a welcome green escape in an area with few parks. Inside the park is a rose garden with over 160 different kinds of roses and a tennis center that sometimes arranges international tennis tournaments.
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Utsubo-Koen Park is beautiful in autumn.
The park is a popular picnic spot on the weekends and late afternoons, and in spring, it is one of Osaka’s most popular places to see the Cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
#### Things To See And Do In Hommachi
- **Utsubo Park** As one of central Osaka’s very few parks, it is a great place to go for a walk, relax, or join the locals on a picnic. There is also a rose garden and a tennis center with 16 courts. In the fall, the large leafy trees turn a deep orange, and it is one of Osaka’s most popular spots for Cherry Blossom.
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Maria walking in Utsubo-Koen Park in autumn
- **Utsubo Bakery Panena** Utsubo Bakery Panena is one of the city’s best bakeries and is our favorite place to pick up some picnic food before heading to the park.
#### What’s The Catch?
Hommachi gets very quiet in the evenings, with little to no nightlife, and the neighborhood doesn’t have many sights to see.
#### Where to stay in Hommachi
##### Top End
[***St Regis Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
If you want to splurge a bit on your hotel stay in Osaka, this is an excellent choice. The five-star St Regis Osaka oozes luxury and is located directly on top of the Hommachi Subway Station’s Exit 7, making it easy to get around the city.
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Maria outside a Christmas decorated [St Regis Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
The European-styled rooms have magnificent city views and are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine. They also have a spacious French-style marble bathroom with a shower with four body jets, a bathtub, a built-in LCD TV, and a plush bathrobe. Perfect for relaxation after a full day of sightseeing, you even get your private butler, who can make reservations for sightseeing, dinner, and tickets\!
The hotel also has a fitness gym, a business center, and a lovely rooftop Japanese garden to enjoy the city view. If you don’t want to go out for dinner, you can have an excellent Italian meal at La Veduta restaurant on the 12th floor with a great view, a drink at St Regis Bar, or some French dishes at the hotel’s cafe. And for more options, you can easily walk to the restaurant area of Dotonbori within 15 minutes or so.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
***[The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka)*** This is one of Osaka’s newest 5-star luxury hotels. The rooms look stunning with a fresh design, comfortable beds, and large bathrooms with bathtubs near the windows. It’s the perfect place to soak and relax while enjoying the city view after a day of sightseeing.
The nearest subway station, Hommachi Station, is a 5-minute walk away. From there, you are only two stops from downtown Osaka, which has attractions such as Dotombori Restaurant Street. Osaka Castle is about a 30-minute walk away, or you can easily take the subway.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka) Hotel Resol Osaka is a mid-sized hotel with a lovely interior design. We stayed in a Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm), which was fairly small but stylishly decorated and well-equipped with air conditioning, a fridge, an electric water kettle, and a large-screen TV. The bathroom is typically Japanese compact, with a small but deep bathtub.
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We arrived late at the [Hotel Resol Trinity](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
The hotel’s star attraction is the lovely Onsen (Japanese hot spring public bath) on the first floor, which was a joy to use in the evening after sightseeing all day. Some very convenient amenities include vending machines, icemakers, microwave ovens, and water refill stations on some floors. The laundry room on the fifth floor came in very handy with several washers and dryers.
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Our cozy Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm) at [Hotel Resol Trinity](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
Another highlight is the friendly and helpful staff, who spoke excellent English. The rooms are cleaned every other day, but fresh towels are delivered daily.
The surrounding neighborhood is quiet, with mostly businesses, but there are some restaurants and a 7-Eleven right around the corner from the hotel. We had lunch at an excellent Vietnamese restaurant just down the street. Right next to the hotel is Cacaotier Gokan, a specialty chocolate shop with all kinds of chocolate treats.
The closest subway station is Yodoyabasji Station, just a five-minute walk away. From here, you can get to Namba Station in three stops.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
***[Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi)*** With spotlessly clean, modern rooms, tasteful decor, friendly staff, a great location, and an affordable price, Hotel Cordia Osaka has become one of Hommachi’s most popular hotels.
Room sizes vary from quite compact to spacious Premiere rooms at 40 sqm. However, even the smaller rooms, like the Basic Double (20 sqm), have a layout that uses the space very effectively. All rooms have super comfortable beds, a working desk, a seating area, strong fast Wi-Fi, and a large-screen TV with Netflix and Prime Video. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are replenished daily. The bathroom is equally modern and fresh, with a fantastic rainfall shower.
Guests can use the laundry room, vending machines, microwave oven, and ice makers.
Honmmachi Station is less than a five-minute walk away, and from there, it’s two stops to either Namba or Umeda. A 7-Eleven and a Family Mart are just down the street, and Utsubo Park is four minutes away. If you go to the park, I’d highly recommend stopping by Utsubo Bakery Panena and picking up some delicious pastries\!
Breakfast is excellent, although some might find the options a little limited. Overall, this is a fantastic three-star hotel that offers serious value.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi)
[***Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka)
This stylish hotel has a youthful hipster vibe. The rooms are well-equipped and have a cozy, homey atmosphere. There is a bar where a DJ plays on Fridays and Saturdays, and they have darts and table football. The location is also very convenient: it is a 5-minute walk from Sakaisuji Honamchi Subway Station, so you can quickly get around the city. You can walk to Osaka Castle in about 10 minutes.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka)
[***Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka)
This elegant hotel is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Kitahama Station in a quiet business neighborhood. The rooms are big, modern, and comfortable. The hotel has a Japanese in-house restaurant, two convenience stores just opposite the hotel, and several small restaurants close by.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka)
***[Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka)***
A fairly new apartment hotel with various-sized apartments available. The largest apartment, the deluxe family room, sleeps eight people. Perfect for families or a group of friends. All apartments have a small kitchen and sitting area with large screen TV. Hommachi subway station is just a couple of minutes walk away, and you can easily walk to Utsubo Park. Some rooms have a balcony, and all have a private bathroom with all amenities included.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka)
***
### 5\. Nakanoshima Island Area
Business District & Hipster Vibe

*Best hotels in Nakanoshima Area: [Conrad Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka?clickref=_amcid-QmOmNEABI6VxBYxJbBxox), [Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka?clickref=_amcid-BPVz6ssOsVMzMIMBpxMib), [Hotel Cordia Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka?clickref=_amcid-xmzmQoO72NoqUYz73Us2Q)*
The island Nakanoshima is squeezed between the two rivers Dojima-gawa and Tosabori-gawa. Naka-no-Shima used to be primarily a business district with office buildings but has, in recent years, seen something of a hipster revival.
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The riverwalk alongTosabori-gawa river
Cool restaurants, trendy fashion shops, and retro coffee shops have popped up and made this neighborhood a popular alternative base for exploring the city. There are lovely riverside walkways to explore and lots of museums, and Nakanoshima Koen Park, with its rose garden, is well worth a visit.
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The lovely Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden
#### Why Stay In The Nakanoshima Area?
##### **Peaceful Residential Area With A Hipster Vibe**
Naka-no-Shima is a peaceful residential area with a hipster vibe. The area has several subway stations (including Higobashi, Kitahama, and Watanebebashi) and also a couple of railway stations. Naka-no-Shima Island is only a 15-minute walk from JR Osaka Railway Station.
You can walk from Nokonoshima Island along the riverwalk to Osaka Castle in about 30-40 minutes. Along the way, you can stop off at some cozy coffee shops like Moto Coffee, Graf, or our favorite, Smorebrod Kitchen.
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Nokonoshima Island Riverwalk at night
#### Things To See And Do In Nakanoshima Area
- **Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden** A lovely riverside park with a beautiful rose garden. Also if you get hungry, check out the R Riverside Grill & Beer Garden inside the park.
- **Graf** Graf is a trendy coffee shop run by one of Osaka’s leading design firms. In addition to drinks and tasty cakes, the cafe is also a design shop with locally designed carts, crafts, furniture, and tableware.
- ****Smorebrod Kitchen****
Pin
Maria having lunch at Smorebrod Kitchen
Pin
Danish style sandwiches
- **Museum Of Oriental Ceramics**
One of the best collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics in the world. You will also find a smaller collection of Japanese ceramics. The exhibitions are all displayed with complete English descriptions.
- **Have dinner at Kitahama Terrace** Head to Kitahama Terrace nearby Naniwa Bridge for dinner where many restaurants have outdoor seating with riverside views.
- **Osaka Central Public Hall** The building, constructed in 1913 and beautifully restored, is famous for its elegant neoclassic architecture. Today, it is used for events, concerts, and lectures.
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The elegant Osaka Central Public Hall
- **National Museum of Art** A subterranean museum displaying international art
- **The Osaka Science Museum** The museum has exhibitions on topics such as the universe, electricity, and chemistry, as well as a planetarium and daily science shows.
#### Where To Stay In Nakanoshima
##### Top-Range
[***Conrad Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
This beautiful 5-star Conrad hotel has all the luxury you would want: modern and comfortable rooms, four dining options, a heated indoor pool, and spectacular views of Osaka City.
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The absolutely stunning view from [Conrad Osaka’s lobby](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
The hotel has a convenient and quiet location on the Naka-no-Shima island, just between the Kita and Minami areas. By staying here, you are just a 5-minute walk from Higobashi Station, where JR Osaka Station is only a 7-minute train ride away. The hotel has spa and wellness facilities and a well-equipped gym. This is simply a fantastic luxury hotel\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka)
Do you like Onsen (hot spring bath) just as much as I do? If so, this 4-star hotel is perfect for you! It is one of the very few hotels in Osaka with a public bath/ Onsen located on the hotel’s top floor. It has both an outdoor jacuzzi and an indoor hot pool (men and women have separate baths).
The spacious rooms are super cozy, with wooden floors and a delicate design. All rooms come with a TV, fridge, electronic kettle, and private bathroom (with bathtub and free toiletries). There are lots of restaurants, a Family Mart, and a 7-Eleven supermarket next door. You can walk to Osaka Subway Station in 12 minutes or take the free shuttle from the JR Osaka Station (a 7-minute drive from the hotel). It is close to the river, so some rooms have a fantastic riverside view.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka)
***[Hotel Cordia Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka)***
This is a lovely, modern, and chic hotel that is excellent value for your money. The rooms are clean and comfortable and, by Japanese standards, fairly spacious. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from two subway stations (Higobashi Station and Yodoyabashi Station). You can borrow a smartphone for free to bring with you when you go around the city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka)
***
### 6\. Osaka Castle Area
Osaka’s No 1 Tourist Attraction

*Best hotels in Osaka Castle Area: [Hotel New Otani Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka?clickref=_amcid-2qsYEJIlE3M2Z6A2QgAJZ), [KKR Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-sBU3O6eEgFVIlYmEoEQrr), [TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Pele7gP6PembNIMpQAEle)*
[Osaka Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle), or Osaka-jo, is Osaka’s biggest attraction. More than 2.5 million visitors come to see the castle and its surrounding Osaka Castle Park every year.
The castle itself is eight stories tall and is beautifully illuminated in the evenings.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/A3_08311.jpg)
The eight-story tall Osaka Castle
For more about Osaka castle including a full walking route of all its main sights, see our [guide to Osaka Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle).
#### Why Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
The main attractions here are Osaka Castle and the huge castle park. It is especially lovely in spring during cherry blossom season when hundreds of cherry blossom trees turn pink.
**Beat The Crowds At Osaka Castle**
If you stay in the area, you can beat the crowds and experience the castle grounds before the tour busses arrive.
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/VIew_osaka_Castle.jpg)
View from the top of Osaka Castle
#### Things To See And Do Around Osaka Castle
- **Osaka Museum Of History**
This museum is built on the old ruins of Naniwa Palace, finished in 652 AD. Sadly it was destroyed by fire after 34 years in 686 AD. At this museum, you will learn the history of Osaka from the era of the Naniwa Palace up to the early 20th century. You get a fantastic view of Osaka Castle from the 10th floor of this museum. See the museum’s [website](http://www.mus-his.city.osaka.jp/eng/index.html) for opening hours.
- **Picnic in the park** Do as the locals do and have a picnic on the Osaka park grounds.
- **Osaka Castle**
The highlight of this area, and the most popular attraction in Osaka, is the stunning bright white Osaka Castle. It is a must-visit if you are in Osaka.
⇒ [Read more about Osaka Castle & the best walking route here](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle)
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Maria exploring the Osaka Castle grounds
- **Try one of Osaka’s best French bakeries**
[Boulangerie Gout Bakery](https://derien.co.jp/) [& Cafe](https://derien.co.jp/) is one of the best bakeries in Osaka. You can eat in the Cafe or bring food to the park for a picnic.
- **Take a riverside walk** You can walk along the riverside from Osaka Castle and end at Naka-no-Shima island.
#### What’s The Catch?
You’ll have no problem finding a place to eat, but if you want more options, you’ll have to take the subway or a taxi to Dotombori Restaurant Street (a 10-minute subway ride, three stops).
There aren’t many hotels within easy walking distance of the park and castle, so if you want to stay in this area, your choice of accommodation will be limited.
#### Where To Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
##### Top End
***[Hotel New Otani Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka)***
This 5-star hotel has excellent views of Osaka Castle and the park, situated just across the river from the castle grounds. Nothing beats seeing Osaka Castle lit up at night from your hotel window. The hotel is huge, with spacious rooms and several in-house restaurants, both Japanese and international, shops, a spa/ massage, a hot tub, and a sauna. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to and from Kyoto, and the Osaka Wonder Loop Sightseeing Bus departs and arrives from the hotel. There are two subway stations close by, so you can easily get around the city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***KKR Hotel Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka)
If you want a spectacular view of Osaka Castle from your hotel room, then KKR Hotel Osaka is the one. The castle view from the restaurant on the 12th floor is amazing. Osaka Castle Park is just across the road from the hotel. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to the subway station every 20 minutes. Make sure you book a (renovated) castle view room with the breakfast option, as breakfast is excellent.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka)
***[TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka)***
Taketo Stay is a new apartment hotel (May 2020). All rooms have a fully equipped kitchen (including a microwave, fridge, stovetop, kettle, and coffee machine), a balcony, a private bathroom with a tub and clothes washing machine, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV. This is perfect for families or those who want to be able to cook their own food. The rooms have a modern and fresh design. A subway station (Kyobashi Station) is only a 2-minute walk from the hotel.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka)
***
### 7\. Osaka Bay Area
Universal Studios Japan & Osaka Aquarium

*Best hotels in Osaka Bay Area/ Universal Studios Japan: [Hyatt Regency Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Z6YsZx33VrIzVJOVMOYFQ), [The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZggZJoMoFlmbVUIYMgeUE), [Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-P6QBEzFsEOiYgAze33or7), [Hotel Universal Port Vita](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka?clickref=_amcid-IUesm7BmPrYY77PAsBFJY), [J-Hoppers Osaka Universal](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka?clickref=_amcid-6rM6IE7PJmYzsZgOeYpbN), [Hotel Lodge Maishima](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka?clickref=_amcid-eVF6iPNJrsxIUMUlZBmUm)*
The bay area of Osaka is located southwest of downtown. It is home to two entertainment hubs: **Universal Studios Japan** and Tempozan, which includes the **Osaka Aquarium**, a huge Ferris wheel, and a shopping center with lots of restaurants.
Several ferries depart and arrive at Osaka Nanko Port for destinations in Shikoku (Ehime), Kyushu (Beppu and Kagoshima, and Kita-Kyushu north of Fukuoka), and Okinawa (Naha).
[  Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Amazing-views-Umeda-Sky-Building-Osaka.jpg)
Osaka Bay area has two big entertainment hubs – Universal Studios Japan and Tempozan (with the aquarium and Ferris wheel)
#### Why Stay In The Osaka Bay Area?
##### **Some Of Japan’s Biggest Tourist Attractions**
The primary and really only reason to stay in the Osaka Bay area is if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, or if you’re taking the ferry to, for instance, Okinawa Islands.
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The 112m tall Tempozan Ferris Wheel
#### Things To See And Do In Osaka Bay Area
- **Universal Studios Japan**
A fantastic amusement park that bursts with rides, shows, shops, and restaurants with Hollywood movie-related themes. Its highlight is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a recreating of Hogsmeade Village with its famous “Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride through Hogwart’s School.
If you would like to skip the ticket line you can [buy your entry tickets online here](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal_studios_japan_ticket)
- **Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan**
Japan’s best aquarium with an impressive display of sea life from the Pacific Ocean, like Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, Arctic otters (so cute!), seals, and jellyfish. Here you can see a giant tank filled with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish. You can also see dolphins here.
You can also buy tickets [for the aquarium online](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_aquarium_kaiyukan)
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Maria admiring the sea life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- **Tempozan Ferris Wheel**
112 meters tall, offers a brilliant view of Osaka, Kobe, and the bay area.
#### What’s The Catch?
The Osaka Bay area is a bit out of town. It takes about 30 min by train to get from Osaka Bay to downtown Osaka.
The area also lacks a local Japanese vibe, as most restaurants and shopping malls around Universal Studios Japan are very American-inspired. It feels like being in the USA instead of Japan.
#### Where To Stay In Osaka Bay Area
##### Top End
[***Hyatt Regency Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka)
A fabulous 5-star hotel with a stunning ocean view, especially at sunset. It is located in a quiet and peaceful area right by Osaka Bay. It is popular with business travelers as it is right next to Japan’s World Trade Centre. It is an outstanding hotel with a rooftop pool (both indoor and outdoor), a spa and beauty salon, a gym, and five restaurants. You can quickly get into downtown Osaka, as the Nakafuto Subway Station is only a 3-minute walk away from the hotel.
There is a free shuttle service that takes you to/ from Osaka/ Umeda Station downtown (a 25-min ride one way). You can get to Universal Studios Japan by taking a taxi (a 15-min drive), and to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (a 10-min drive). This is a fantastic hotel to stay at if you want some luxury and peace and quiet, a lovely ocean view, and want to do day-trips to Universal Studios, Osaka Aquarium, and downtown Osaka.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka)
Of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan, The Park Front Hotel is the closest to the park. It is just opposite the main gate, just a few steps away from the action, and you get a great view of the park from your hotel window. The hotel design is based on a time travel concept, and as you walk through the hotel, you are transported through different decades in US history. The rooms are enormous, especially by Japanese standards.
There are several on-site restaurants, cafes, a convenience store, and shops. The hotel has a convenient location also if you want to go to downtown Osaka. You can easily walk to Universal City Station within a few minutes, where you can take the train to the downtown JR Osaka Station (a 12-minute ride) and JR Shin-Osaka Station (a 20-minute ride) to see Osaka city or get to other parts of Japan. A convenient and comfortable hotel to stay at if you want to visit Universal Studios Japan.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka)
[***Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka)
The newest of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan opened in May 2019. You can easily walk to Universal Studios (5-7 min). The hotel has a stylish design with spacious, comfortable rooms (also large family rooms for up to six people).
The hotel’s terrace, spa, and Onsen/ hot bath are the perfect place to wind down after a full day of walking around in the Universal Studios park. Lots of restaurants and a big convenient store close by. Incredible bayfront view from your hotel window. Sakurajima Station is just next door, making it easy to head into Osaka city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka)
[***Hotel Universal Port Vita***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka)
A relatively new hotel (opened in 2018) right in front of Universal Studios Japan, and one of the park’s official hotels. It is a great place to stay if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and prefer something a little more affordable than the two hotels mentioned above. The hotel’s design is inspired by the movie “Minions” (the animated film from 2015 with the little yellow characters with big eyes). Just wait till you get into the elevators! 🙂
The location is hard to beat, just opposite the Universal Citywalk Osaka shopping mall with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops and Universal City Station. Perfect for transportation into downtown Osaka or to neighboring cities like Kyoto, Himeji, and Nara. There is a convenience store on the first floor as well as laundry machines and dryers. Good value for your money, one of the cheapest official Universal Studios Japan hotels, and the service and standard is excellent! A great family hotel that is very kid-friendly.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka)
##### Budget
[***J-Hoppers Osaka Universal***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka)
A super cute hostel with both private rooms and dormitory (mixed and female-only). It has a great location, just a 15-min walk from Universal Studios Japan and a few minutes’ walk from Ajikawaguchi Station from where you can reach Osaka Station in 10 min by subway. You can make your own food at the shared kitchen, where coffee and tea are free. The hostel has a lounge area where they show movies in the evenings. A spotless and quiet place, and a great budget option close to Universal Studios.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka)
[***Hotel Lodge Maishima***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka)
Hotel Lodge Maishima’s location is quite unique, on an island in Osaka Bay connected by a bridge to the mainland. It is a 3-star hotel with a restaurant, spa, and wellness center complete with Onsen/ hot spring bath. Here you stay in lodges/ cabins surrounded by beautiful nature and a vast garden.
There are several room types available from twin rooms to family rooms, all with shared bathrooms. All rooms have a terrace perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The hotel rents out bikes, and this is a great area to go for a bike ride. It’s quite far from Universal Studios but there is a train that will get you there in half an hour or you can take a taxi (15 min).
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka)
***
### Summary Of The Best Areas To Stay In Osaka
##### Minami
- Best for nightlife and entertainment
- More restaurants and bars than you could ever visit
- Well connected by transportation
- Atmospheric old alleyways and ancient shrines
- Tons of accommodation options to choose from
⇒ [Read more about the Minami area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#minami-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Minami hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-minami)
##### Kita
- Lot’s of top end and upper mid-range hotels
- Plenty of restaurants and shopping malls
- Osaka’s largest transport hub, with easy access by train to the rest of the Kansai region, as well the city’s subway lines
⇒ [Read more about the Kita area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#kita-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Kita hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-kita)
##### Tennoji
- Less expensive accommodation than downtown Osaka
- Plenty of cheap eateries around the Shinsekai neighborhood
- The iconic Tsutenkaku Tower / Osaka Tower.
- Still well connected by subway
- An upcoming area in large part thanks to the attraction of Japan’s tallest building, the Abeno Harukas Building.
⇒ [Read more about the Tennoji area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#tennoji-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Tennoji hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-tennoji)
##### Hommachi
- Quiet area close to downtown Osaka
- Not a lot of sights but within walking distance of both Kita and Minami
- Utsubo-Koen Park, one of the few parks in central Osaka
- Typically lower hotel prices than in downtown
⇒ [Read more about the Hommachi area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#hommachi-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Hommachi hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-hommachi)
##### Nakanoshima Island
- An upcoming area with a hipster vibe
- Cozy coffee shops, riverside view restaurants, and designer shops
- Lovely park and rose garden
- Surprisingly well connected
⇒ [Read more about the Nakanoshima area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#nakanoshima-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Nakanoshima hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-nakanoshima)
##### Osaka Castle Area
- Easy access to Osaka Castle and the surrounding park, the city’s most popular attraction
- Especially wonderful during cherry blossom season
- Not super central so hotel prices tend to be lower (with the exception of cherry blossom season)
⇒ [Read more about the Osaka Castle area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#osaka-castle-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Osaka Castle hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-osaka-castle)
##### Osaka Bay & Universal Studios
- The best area to stay in for visiting Universal Studio or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- Cool, high-end, modern hotels with an American theme
- If you’re planning on taking the ferry to for instance the Okinawa Islands
- A little out of the way for exploring the rest of Osaka
⇒ [Read more about the Osaka Bay area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#osaka-bay-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Osaka Bay / Universal Studio hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-osaka-bay)
***
There you have it, our favorite Osaka areas and accommodations with our recommended Osaka hotels in the five different areas of the city. Hopefully, you now know a bit more about Osaka’s many areas, and deciding where to stay in Osaka has become a little easier.
Where you should stay in Osaka depends on what you want to get out of your visit. Check out our [Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary) for tips on what to do in Osaka.
Have a fantastic stay in Osaka! ♥
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**We intend to add more hotels and info about Osaka to this Osaka hotel guide in the future. So please let us know if you have any suggestions and tips about Osaka! What is your favorite area and hotel in Osaka? Do you miss any information in this “Where to stay in Osaka” guide? Please leave a comment in the comment area below. We would love to hear from you! Thank you\!**
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About The Writer Espen Egeland
Espen is a Norwegian travel nerd who started his independent travels at age 19 when he bought a one-way ticket to Indonesia in search of adventure. He has explored more than thirty countries across six continents, lived in Thailand and studied in Australia. He has a master's degree in computer science, but his true passion is photography, filmmaking, and sharing his love of travel. In 2014, while on a year-long trip across South - East Asia, he co-founded the travel blog Nerd Nomads. Since then he's been a full-time traveler. See our [about page](https://nerdnomads.com/about) for more about Espen.
### Leave a Comment [Cancel reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#respond)
### 11 Comments
1. 
jack
[January 20, 2021 at 10:21](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-63505)
It’s really helpful and very informative article. Thanks for sharing this wonderful content. I would like to share to everyone.It’s great one.
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-63505)
2. 
Shannon
[September 07, 2023 at 08:32](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-102834)
I love your blog! Currently planning a trip to Japan and using your recommendations a lot – very clearly broken down and honest. Thanks so much\!
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-102834)
- 
Maria Wulff Hauglann
[September 07, 2023 at 10:45](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-102837)
Fantastic to hear this, Shannon! Thank you so much for such a nice feedback! You made my day! 🙂 Have a wonderful trip to Japan\!
All the best,
Maria
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-102837)
3. 
May
[November 08, 2023 at 09:08](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-104400)
Very informative and useful. Great blog! I will start planning my trip from here, thanks for sharing.
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-104400)
- 
Maria Wulff Hauglann
[November 10, 2023 at 00:54](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-104456)
Hi May\!
Thank you so much! Have a fantastic trip to Japan and Osaka! We are actually in Japan right now, currently in Tokyo. The trees are about to change to autumn colors.
All the best,
Maria
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-104456)
4. 
Anannya Paliwal
[January 12, 2024 at 16:39](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106191)
Thank you for sharing all the details. I was feeling a bit clueless about my trip to Osaka, but thanks to your blog, I now have an itenary and hotels booked 🙂
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106191)
- 
Maria Wulff Hauglann
[January 13, 2024 at 05:30](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106218)
Hi Anannya\!
Thank you so much for commenting! So happy to hear that our Osaka articles could be of help to you when planning your Osaka trip! Yay! 🙂
Have a fantastic trip to Osaka! We spent a week there again in December. Great city\!
All the best,
Maria
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106218)
5. 
Rio
[January 25, 2024 at 21:42](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106664)
Found you for places to stay in Kyoto and was given more than I expected… as I go to book other places, I’m scrolling down google to find your page! thank you so much\!
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-106664)
- 
Maria Wulff Hauglann
[February 04, 2024 at 06:51](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-107061)
Thank you so much, Rio! So happy to hear that our Japan where-to-stay articles could be of help to you when planning your Japan trip.
Have a fantastic trip to Japan\!
All the best,
Maria
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-107061)
6. 
Giuliana
[June 24, 2025 at 00:59](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-125102)
Congrats and thank you for such great content! Planning my trip has become much easier 🙂
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-125102)
- 
Maria Wulff Hauglann
[June 29, 2025 at 23:06](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-125133)
Thank you so much, Giuliana! Super happy to hear that you find our blog helpful when planning your Japan trip.
Have a fantastic trip to Japan\!
All the best,
maria
[Reply](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#comment-125133)
#### What is this article about
Where to stay in Osaka
The best hotels in Osaka
#### Where is this
Osaka city in the Kansai region of Japan
#### How to get there
You can get to Osaka by
- Train to Shin-Osaka Station (shinkansen)
- Air to the airport Kansai International Airport (KIX) or the domestic airport Itami Airport
- Highway buses
#### When to go
Osaka is a great city to visit all year round, although it is most beautiful during Cherry Blossom (March/ April) and autumn (November)
#### Facts
Osaka is Japan’s third largest city with a population of 2,7 million people
Osaka’s biggest attractions are Osaka Castle, Dotombori restaurant and neon area, Universal Studios Japan, Umeda Sky Building, and Abeno Harukas Building
#### Popular Japan Articles
- [ Where To Stay In Tokyo – Our Favourite Areas & Hotels In Tokyo](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-tokyo)
- [ Japan Itinerary – The Best Of Japan In Two Weeks](https://nerdnomads.com/japan-two-week-itinerary)
- [ Living Like A Samurai At A Ryokan](https://nerdnomads.com/staying-in-ryokan)
- [ How Expensive Is Japan And How To Travel Japan Cheap](https://nerdnomads.com/expensive-japan-travel-cheap)
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| Readable Markdown | Right in the heart of the Kansai region of Japan, and surrounded in every direction by some of Japan’s most famous sights, lies the modern metropolitan city of Osaka. Famous for its dazzling neon-lit entertainment district, its world-class food, and its friendly people, Osaka has become a popular base for exploring the region. However, with Osaka being Japan’s third-largest city (with a population of 2,7 million people), deciding where to stay in Osaka can easily start to feel quite overwhelming.
Osaka isn’t always on the “must-sees in Japan” lists, lacking those world-famous sights that its neighbor Kyoto is so known for. In fact, we skipped Osaka on our first couple of trips to Japan, but once we did set foot in this energetic city, it ended up being one of our favorite “big” cities. Osaka’s combination of affordable accommodation, world-class food at every street corner, and super convenient location for day trips around Japan won us over.
We love that, with just a short train ride, you can explore the [temples of Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/kyoto-itinerary), the historic city of Nara, the charming port town of Kobe, and our favorite castle in Japan, the famous [Himeji castle](https://nerdnomads.com/himeji-castle).
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Stall serving Osaka’s famous Takoyaki – balls made of wheat flour and filled with octopus.
Osaka city itself has plenty to offer, too, from Osaka Castle to the famous neon-lit Dotonbori entertainment district to the view from the top of Japan’s second tallest building, from vibrant food markets to centries old eateries, from top-notch luxury shopping to nerdy manga geekery heaven. While it lacks the ancient temples and beautiful Japanese gardens that we all love, it makes up for it with its energy, relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food.
By the way, for more details on what to do in Osaka see our [complete and detailed two-day Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary).
In fact, we fell in love with Osaka the first time we visited it in 2019, and we keep coming back to the city on all our Japan trips. 🙂
One of the results of all our visits to Osaka is this guide on where to stay in Osaka with all the little hotel gems we could find. Here we reveal what we think are the best areas to stay in Osaka and why. For each area, we have listed our favorite hotels at any budget – Top-End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
**Latest Updates:** In 2023/24, we spent three months in Japan researching new travel guides and updating our existing guides. This time, we spent about two weeks in Osaka, and this guide to Osaka’s best accommodation has been thoroughly updated with new hotel recommendations and expanded area descriptions.
Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury hotel, a small, intimate boutique hotel, a value-for-money business hotel, or a budget guesthouse or hostel, Osaka will deliver.
Finding that perfect hotel or guesthouse for your trip really depends on your plans and preferences. Are you in town primarily to see the city attractions, or do you plan to take a lot of day trips to the surrounding sights? Do you prefer a local quiet neighborhood, or do you want easy access to Osaka’s famous neon-lit nightlife?
Osaka is a big city that covers a lot of ground, so it’s worth considering staying somewhere central.
Thankfully, Osaka has an excellent transportation system with subways covering the city well. The **Midosuji subway line**, in particular, is super convenient as it crosses through the town, connecting the most popular areas and will get you almost everywhere.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Rikuros-Cheesecake-Osaka-Japan.jpg)
Osaka’s famous fluffy cheesecake at Rikuro’s
You can easily do day trips from Osaka to [Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/kyoto-itinerary) (a 25-minute train ride), [Himeji Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/himeji-castle) (30 minutes), Kobe (30 minutes), and Nara (1 hour). And if you get up really early in the morning, you can even do day trips to [Hiroshima](https://nerdnomads.com/peace-memorial-ceremony-hiroshima) (1 h, 20 min) and [Koyasan](https://nerdnomads.com/koyasan-travel-guide) (2 hours).
What Osaka does lack is Kyoto’s many Ryokans (traditional Japanese Inns). So if you have your heart set on staying in a Ryokan, Kyoto is the better choice. Have a look at [our article on where to stay in Kyoto](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-kyoto) for our recommendations on Kyoto’s best hotels and Ryokans.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Lumination-Osaka.jpg)
Beautiful Christmas illuminations in the street outside the hotel we stayed at, Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
One reason Osaka has become a popular place to stay is that accommodation here is generally considered to be fairly affordable compared to, for instance, Kyoto. While areas such as Kita and Minima have plenty of top-notch luxury hotels, other areas, such as Tennoji and around Osaka Castle, are more budget-friendly.
Also, during holidays and special occasions such as Cherry Blossom season, Kyoto gets packed with tourists, and the hotels fill up and get sold out. It can be much easier to find a vacant hotel room in Osaka and instead go on day trips to Kyoto from here.
***Important: None of the hotels recommended here are paid placements or have sponsored our stay in any way. We always pay for our own travel. If you book through any of the links in this article, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our site running – so thank you in advance for your support! ♥***
We hope you find this guide helpful in finding the best place to stay in Osaka\!
## The 7 Best Areas To Stay In Osaka
*The seven best areas to stay in Osaka: 1. Minami (purple) 2. Kita (black), 3. Tennoji (orange), 4. Hommachi (green), 5. Nakanoshima (red), 6. Osaka Castle (brown), 7. Osaka Bay (blue)*
The following seven areas are the best areas to stay in Osaka (in our opinion):
1. **Minami Area – Downtown Osaka**
The downtown area of Osaka has many restaurants, shops, markets, and hotels. It includes the neighborhoods of Namba, Shinsaibashi, Dotombori, Hommachi, and Amerika-Mura.
2. **Kita Area**
Osaka’s business district is considered part of downtown Osaka, with lots of restaurants and shops. It is also Osaka’s best-connected transport hub, with JR Osaka Station (direct trains to Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Kobe). It is a convenient area to stay in if you plan on making day trips from Osaka.
3. **Tennoji Area**
The old part of Osaka, with Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas. Lots of cheap restaurants in the Shinsekai neighborhood. Relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly accommodation.
4. **Hommachi Area**
Hommachi is between Osaka’s two downtown areas (Minami and Kita). However, it is much quieter, with office buildings and residential houses.
5. **Nakanoshima Area**
A small island squeezed between two rivers. It is a business district but has seen a hipster revival in recent years, with cozy cafes and coffee shops.
6. **Osaka Castle Area**
Osaka’s biggest tourist attraction.
7. **Osaka Bay Area**
The main reason for staying here is if you plan to visit Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan or take the ferry to, for instance, the Okinawa Islands.
Keep reading to find a detailed description, our personal opinion, and our photos of each of these seven best areas to stay in Osaka. We recommend hotels in Osaka for each area at three different price ranges: Top End, Mid-Range, and Budget.
Hope you find this hotel guide to Osaka useful. Please comment at the bottom of this article if you have any thoughts or questions. Enjoy your stay in Osaka! ♥
***
### 1\. Minami Area
*Best hotels in Minami Area: [Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka), [Swissotel Nankai Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka?clickref=_amcid-xAbVrUArpr3lJirAIMpO6), [Hotel The Leben Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka), [Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Irq2pEVbUsgPgAbVmr7sQ), [Cross Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka?clickref=_amcid-VEiQA2VMBEV7ex63UVMJA), [Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel?clickref=_amcid-mb3UFspqJli6NOUmOpJMo), [Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka?clickref=_amcid-zO63OI3oxxoEbZNobmiOO), [Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka?clickref=_amcid-zIZiAIg2zp7UPUIMZ2x2m), [Kamon Hotel Namba](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka?clickref=_amcid-mUrFmUsMNFVU6YsYEOpiz)*
Minami, meaning “*South*,” is Osaka’s most famous **entertainment district**, with an abundance of bars, restaurants, and shops. This area comes to life after dark when the restaurant streets are filled with both locals and tourists indulging in the famous Osaka food culture.
Minami includes the neighborhoods of **Namba**, **Shinsaibashi**, **Dotombori**, **Hommachi**, and **Amerika-Mura**.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Dotombori-Osaka.jpg)
Dotombori is Osaka´s most famous and lively restaurant street, with its colorful display of neon signs
The area is usually simply referred to as **Namba**. The name comes from the subway station of the same name that lies at its center. Here lies several of Osaka’s most popular attractions, including Osaka’s best food market—the Kuromon Ichiba Market—the old Hozen-ji Temple, and the atmospheric Hozen-jo Yokocho Alley.
But the main attraction is Dotombori, the famous strip of restaurants, food stalls, and bars that line both sides of the canal and display the wildest, most colorful display of neon signs anywhere. It’s the kind of spectacle that takes your breath away. You can spend hours just wandering the side streets, trying out the local specialties, snapping photos, and exploring the small bars and narrow alleys. It’s great fun\!
#### Why Stay In The Minami/ Namba Area?
##### **World-Class Entertainment and Dining**
The Namba area is the city center of Osaka, famous for its vibrant street food and nightlife. It is also home to most of the restaurants, cafes, shops, and pubs that have earned Osaka the title of Japan’s food capital.
Staying in the Minami/ Namba area puts you right in the middle of the action, and there is always something new to see and do or something to eat around the next corner.
##### **Lots of Accommodation Options**
This is Osaka’s most famous and visited area, and as such, there is no shortage of hotels and guesthouses offering accommodation no matter what your budget is.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Dotombori-River-Osaka.jpg)
Dotombori Canal runs through the Minami area
##### **Lots To Explore**
From famous food markets to old shrines and atmospheric alleyways, Minami is a real treat to explore. There is always a photo opportunity lurking around every corner.
##### **Convenient Access To Subway And Trains**
It is also very well connected, and you can easily base yourself in Namba and explore Osaka city from here. There are two large subway stations, The Namba Subway Station and the Shinsaibashi Subway Station, both on the Mido-suji Subway Line.
For day trips outside the city, you can also take the train to/ from the JR Namba Railway Station, where the Yamatoji Railway Line stops, or use the Nankai Line and the Kintetsu Line. This makes it easy to go on trips to, for instance, Wakayama or Nara from Minami.
And if you’re a foodie, there is really no place better to be\!
#### Things To See And Do In The Minami / Namba Area
- **Dotombori**
Dotombori is the place to head to in the evenings. This is where most restaurants, bars, and pubs are located, and the whole neighborhood transforms into a bustling and energetic street market after dark. The area is famous for all its neon signs, especially the weird and wonderful giant wall signs depicting blowfish, crabs, and other creatures. It is a trendy photo spot. Perhaps the most popular motive is the famous neon sign that depicts the Glico man, also known as the running man.
Check out our [Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary) for our recommended walking route, which covers all the main sights of the Dotombori and Amerika-mura area.
- **Amerika-Mura**
A hip and trendy neighborhood packed with cool shops, cafes, bars, and nightclubs inspired by American streetwear and culture.
- **Nippombashi & Kuromon Ichiba Market**
Kuromon Ichiba Market is Osaka’s best food market and a must-visit for foodies. A great way to experience this market is by [joining a food tour with a local guide](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_market_food_tour).
- **Hozen-ji Temple & Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley**
A tiny temple with moss-covered stone figures hidden in an atmospheric stone-brick alley with old traditional restaurants and bars.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Hozen-ji-Yokocho-Alley-Osaka.jpg)
Cozy atmosphere and several old traditional restaurants in Hozen-ji Yokocho Alley
- **Shinsaibashi**
Go shopping along the two parallel shopping streets, Midosuji Avenue and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. Here, you will find everything from luxury international brands to budget shops.
- **Namba Yasaka Shrine** The astonishing Namba Yasaka Shrine, with its giant roaring lion head, is quite the sight and well worth a visit.
- **Modern Shopping Malls** With huge shopping malls like Takashiyama and the recently opened Namba Parks Mall, the area is a shopper’s paradise.
#### What’s The Catch?
The Minami/ Namba area is very busy and crowded after dark, and it lasts until the early hours, especially on weekends and public holidays.
#### Where To Stay In Minami Area
##### Top End
***[Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)*** If you’re looking for a new, modern, top-end hotel in the heart of Namba, the 5-star Centara Grand Hotel Osaka is a great choice! Its fantastic location right next to the recently opened Namba Parks Shopping Mall, with 120 shops and restaurants and a direct walkway to the Namba Subway Station, makes it an excellent base for exploring the city.
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We loved the view from our stylish Superior King Room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor at [Centara Grand Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)
We stayed in a Superior King room (27 sqm) on the 7th floor. After a few weeks of staying at fairly basic hotels while exploring rural Japan, it was fantastic to have such a spacious and comfortable room. The beds were heavenly, and the flat-screen TV was one of the biggest I’ve ever seen in a hotel room. With floor-to-ceiling windows, we had fantastic views overlooking the city. Even the bathroom had floor-to-ceiling windows.
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Loved the interior design
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Bathroom
There was also a large walk-in closet and a seating area with a comfortable chair and table. In the bathroom, the toilet room was separate from the rainwater shower and bathtub, perfect for uninterrupted soaking in the bathtub.
One evening, we treated ourselves to room service from the hotel’s restaurant. The menu is extensive, with Asian and Western options, but since the hotel is Thai-owned, we ordered some of our favorite Thai dishes. They were super tasty and surprisingly affordable for a five-star hotel.
We also had a chance to test out the fitness center, and it is excellent. It is spacious and has a large selection of machines and free weights. We had a fantastic time here and hope to be back again.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/centara-grand-osaka)
***[Swissotel Nankai Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka)***
Swissotel Nankai Osaka has a fantastic location. It is directly connected to the Namba Nankai Railway Station and Namba Subway Station and right next to the huge Takashimaya department store. You can walk to all the action in neon-lit Dotonbori in about 10 minutes, and hundreds of restaurants and shops are around the area.
Apart from its amazing location, the Swissotel Nankai offers everything you’d want from a five-star hotel. The rooms are large and comfortable, the service friendly and professional, and there is an excellent fitness center, a spa, and even a full-sized swimming pool. There are seven in-house dining options, serving a variety of cousins. Breakfast is buffet style and is served on the 36th floor with a fantastic view of the city.
If you’re arriving from the airport, the 30-minute express train stops at the Namba station, and you can take the elevator directly up to the hotel lobby.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/swissotel-nankai-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
*[**Hotel The Leben Osaka**](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)*
This stylish design hotel has cozy, comfortable, spacious rooms and a great location in a quiet neighborhood. Perfect for a good night’s sleep while still being within easy walking distance of Dotonburi’s action.
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Maria checking out of [Hotel The Leben Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)
We stayed in a Standard Twin Room on the 3rd floor, which was 30 sqm and very spacious. The beds were excellent, and the room had a fridge, an electric kettle, a sofa, and a large-screen smart TV.
We are very used to the so-called smart TVs not being quite as clever as advertised, but the screen mirroring worked here! We ended up watching a film while eating a pizza from nearby La Gologsetta (highly recommended if you like authentic Italian-style pizza!).
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We stayed in this fantastic Standard Twin Room (30 sqm) at Hotel The Leben Osaka
The bathroom was equally excellent. It was spacious, squeaky clean, and had our preferred layout of separate rooms for the toilet and bathtub/shower.
The cozy lobby has seating areas and complimentary drinks, including flavors of fruit-infused water, coffee lattes, and an assortment of tea. If you need to do laundry, washing machines are available on the third floor.
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Maria is planning our day in the lobby of [Hotel The Leben Osaka](<http://The Leben>)
One night, we were awoken by the fire alarm at five in the morning and got to meet all the other guests in the lobby in our pajamas! Thankfully, it was soon discovered to be a false alarm. This sort of thing could happen anywhere, and the staff handled it perfectly with smiles and professional calm.
Hotel The Leben comes highly recommended if you’re looking for a mid-range hotel in a quiet yet central location. We loved it\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-leben-osaka)
[***Citadines Namba Osaka (Apartments)***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
Citadines Namba Osaka is a gorgeous 4-star hotel housed in one of Osaka’s grandest old buildings. This apartment hotel has spacious rooms with a seating area, private bathrooms, and a small kitchen. The rooms have a lovely and fresh design.
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Citadines Namba Osaka
We stayed in a Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) on the 2nd floor. Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments are also available. Our apartment had a kitchen with a dining table, a full-sized fridge, a large flat-screen TV, a microwave oven, a stove, and a complete set of kitchen utensils. The beds were the most comfortable we had in Osaka. We could seriously have lived here long-term\!
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Our cozy Premiere Double Room (30 sqm) at [Citadines Namba Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
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Super comfy beds\!
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Kitchen
If there were a downside to our apartment, it would have to be the bathroom, which was relatively small and had little space to put our toiletry bags.
Apart from that, we were very impressed with the Citadines Namba. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the cafe downstairs, where we enjoyed our welcome drinks, was super cozy.
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Maria is enjoying her welcome drink at the lobby cafe
Every floor has a water dispenser, ice machine, and vending machine. On the sixth floor is a large shared kitchen and lounge with free tea and coffee. It was great to finally be able to do our laundry (the fifth floor has washers and dryers).
The hotel also has a fitness center, a kid’s playroom, and a bar. The famous Kuromon Ichiba Market is just up the street from the hotel, and you can easily walk to Dotonburi. There is a food court in the same building, as well as a 7-Eleven and a Family Mart right around the corner. It is a very convenient hotel.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/citadines-osaka)
***[Cross Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka)*** With a location just next to the Dotonbori Canal and Ebisu Bridge, staying at the Cross Hotel puts you right in the middle of the most central area of Osaka. Dotonbori, with its neon signs and restaurants, is right across the canal, a short walk away (2 min).
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Cross-Hotel-Osaka.jpg)
The cool entrance at Cross Hotel Osaka
Cross Hotel rooms are modern, stylish, and comfortable. They have free Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, air conditioning, a TV, and all the necessary toiletries.
The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and cafe, but Dotonbori, with all its restaurants, is just outside your door. Namba subway station is a 3-minute walk away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cross-osaka)
[***Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel)
A modern and stylish hotel (opened May 2019) with an excellent location – close to a large 7-Eleven, a Family Mart, and Hard Rock Cafe (we had takeaway burgers, which we ate in our room, and they were delicious!). There is also a Starbucks in the same building as the hotel. You can easily walk to the restaurant street in Dotonbori within 15 min.
Hommachi Subway Station is only 200 m from the hotel. From here, you can take the green Chuo Line (to, for instance, Osaka Castle), the red Midosuji Line (to the restaurant area Dotombori), and the blue Yotsubashi Line (to the entertainment area Shinsekai). You can also walk to Shinsaibashi Station in 8 minutes. So this is a convenient hotel to stay at to easily go around the city.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Osaka-Excel-Hotel-Tokyu.jpg)
Our Superior Twin Room (33 sqm) at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
We L-O-V-E-D our room, a Superior Twin Room! It was a big (33 sqm), bright, and delicate room with a huge comfortable bed, a sofa, a table, a big TV, a chair, two complimentary water bottles, a fridge, and a kettle. We also got robes, slippers, and all kinds of toiletries. The bathroom was huge, too, which is rare in Japan. We had a great view of Osaka city and a small temple next door. We slept like babies as the room was very soundproof, and there was no noise from either the street or the neighboring rooms.
The hotel has fully automatic washing machines on the 6th floor, which is very convenient. Some floors have washing machines and microwave ovens. The hotel has a nice restaurant, a bar, and a gym.
The free Wi-Fi in our room was super fast. We watched cross-country skiing and biathlon from a Norwegian TV channel, which worked smoothly. The room also has a spacious safe, which could fit both our laptops (13″ and 15″). We stayed seven nights at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu because we loved it so much. We used it as our base while we did day trips to surrounding cities.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka-excel-hotel)
***[***Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka)*** This stunning boutique hotel has an urban, relaxed, Scandinavian-style style. It has the perfect location: right in the heart of Shinsaibashi, close to the Dotonbori area with all its restaurants and bars, but far enough away for a good night’s sleep.
The rooms are very comfortable and modern, with excellent bathrooms and a good shower. This is a great boutique-type hotel with free coffee and laundry facilities. The breakfast is decent, and you can use the neighboring gym. It is just a five-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Subway Station.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/the-flag-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka)
A new and modern 4-star budget hotel (opened March 2019) with a convenient location right by Namba Station (200 m). If you’re arriving from Kansai International Airport you can take the direct airport train to Nankai Namba station.
The rooms are fairly spacious by Japanese standards, with everything you need from toiletries, a bathtub, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a kettle, and a fridge. An extra bonus is the foot massage machine in your room (!), which is perfect after a long day of walking and sightseeing around Osaka. There is an excellent buffet-style breakfast with plenty of options available. Each afternoon, the friendly staff arranges a happy hour where you can enjoy free iced tea, ice cream, and even sake\!
The famous food heaven Kuromon Market is only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and the restaurant and pub street Dotonbori is a short 10-minute walk away. The Hiyori Hotel offers excellent value for the money.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hiyori-osaka)
[***Kamon Hotel Namba***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka)
A lovely boutique budget hotel/hostel with a stylish and cozy Japanese design. Everything from the cool entrance with the Japanese curtain panels covering the front door to the simple but comfortable rooms is very sleek and welcoming. They have standard double rooms for two people and family rooms with bunk beds, which can house up to six people. The rooms are small, but who comes to Osaka to sleep and stay inside the room anyway. 🙂
Breakfast is surprisingly excellent for the price, and the cozy common areas, especially the rooftop terrace, is a great place to relax and socialize. It is hard to fault its location either, with Osaka’s most famous food market, Kuromon Market, just across the street from the hotel and Namba Station, and Dotombori both less than a 10-minute walk away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kamon-osaka)
***
### 2\. Kita Area
*Best hotels in Kita Area: [The Ritz-Carlton Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka?clickref=_amcid-6NYFzFImAzzo2EeVo2Jri), [InterContinental Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka?clickref=_amcid-PQ6Ars3EqZEYIlZsIBsBU), [Zentis Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka), [Harmonie Embrassee](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZVq7ONp6QrQFpeQBIbUxp), [Hotel Noum OSAKA](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZNbpog3ZQIQABMioJx2OU), [Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka?clickref=_amcid-oJEqUzJ222sOJlZ3ieP7U), [Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka?clickref=_amcid-2MYP2NB2m66gJggqlYFUN)*
Kita, meaning “*North*“, is considered Osaka’s business district with its tall modern skyscrapers and office buildings. Kita may lack a little of the local Japanese flavor, but it still is one of the best areas to stay in Osaka, with large department stores and shopping complexes with plenty of dining and entertainment options.
It’s a pleasant and safe area to explore on foot with its pedestrian-friendly wide sidewalks, and it also has its fair share of sights, with the spectacular Umeda Sky building as our personal favorite.
Kita is also arguably the best-connected area in Osaka. No less than four train lines converge here, as does the Midosuji subway, which stops at its center. This makes it an excellent base for exploring the city and taking day trips to the surrounding sights.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Views-Umeda-Sky-Building-Osaka.jpg)
Kita area is the business district of Osaka
#### Why Stay In The Kita Area?
##### **Modern And Convenient With Some of Osaka’s Best Hotels**
Kita is not as busy as Minami, though it is still considered part of downtown Osaka. This business district is where you find many of the city’s international luxury and upper-midrange hotels.
While there is no shortage of restaurants, the area gets fairly quiet at night, perfect for a good night’s sleep. If you prefer to party the night away, you’re just a short hop away from Dotonbori’s nightlife.
##### **Osaka’s Best-Connected Transportation Hub**
Kita is the perfect area to stay in if you want easy access to transportation to the neighboring cities. Some highlights of the transportation options in Kita include:
- **JR Osaka Station** – Osaka’a largest train station. From here you can take the JR Osaka Loop Line, JR Kyoto Line, and JR Kobe Line.
- **Umeda Subway Station** – Osaka’s largest subway station provides easy access to the Midosuji line. From here, you can quickly reach the Shinkansen trains at Shin-Osaka station.
- **JR Kansai Rapid Airport** – If you’re landing at Kansai Airport, the direct Kansai Rapid Airport train makes it easy to get to Kita.
- **Keihan, Hankyu, and Hanshin lines** – These lines connect Osaka to many of its neighbors.
In short, from Kita, you can travel almost anywhere, and there are direct trains to Nara, Kobe, Kyoto, and Himeji.
#### Things To See And Do In Kita Area
- **Umeda Sky Building**
The 173-meter-tall building has a super cool open-air observation deck on its top floor. Here, you get a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of Osaka city. Even the escalator ride up to the top floor is cool, almost like a spaceship.
If you prefer to skip the ticket line, you can [buy your tickets online](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_umeda_sky_building_ticket)
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View from the Umeda Sky building
- **O-hatsu Tenjin Shrine**
This 1300-year-old shrine is located in the middle of tall modern skyscrapers. The shrine is famous for the dramatic events that happened here in 1703 and was later depicted in one of Japan’s best known tragic plays. It is a sad love story between a prostitute and a wealthy merchant, who both committed suicide at the temple to remain together forever in the afterlife.
- **Kid’s Plaza Osaka** A museum dedicated to teaching kids through play, hands-on learning, and workshops.
#### What’s The Catch?
While there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area, Kita cannot quite match the nightlife in the Minami area with Dotombori and its hundreds of restaurants. Its modern architecture means it lacks Minami’s historic buildings and old, cozy alleyways.
#### Where To Stay In Kita Area
##### Top End
[***The Ritz-Carlton Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka)
It’s hard to go wrong with the Ritz Carlton, and the Osaka hotel is no exception. A stunning 5-star hotel with world-class service and a perfect location, only a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a 5-minute walk from Nishi-Umeda Subway Station. And should you feel like staying in one evening, Ritz-Carlton has no less than five in-house restaurants, whereas one, the La Baie, is a Michelin-starred French restaurant.
The decor is inspired by classic European luxury with spacious and elegantly decorated rooms with spectacular views across the city from the 24th floor. The hotel has a swimming pool as well as a spa center with a gym.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/ritz-carlton-osaka)
[***InterContinental Hotel Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka)
Intercontinental Osaka is a superb luxury hotel with everything you would expect from its 5-star status. The rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated, and comfortable and include a large flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a Bose sound system, a mini-bar, tea and coffee, a safety deposit box, and even a walk-in closet. Standard rooms are located between floors 21 and 26, with fantastic views across Osaka’s skyline, and larger two—and three-bedroom apartments are available on higher floors.
The hotel also has a convenient location, only a 5-minute walk from the JR Osaka Railway Station and a 7-minute walk from Umeda Subway Station. Its neighbor is the Grand Front Osaka shopping mall, which has lots of shops and restaurants. You can rent bicycles free of charge from the hotel, which is a cool way to explore Osaka.
With its five in-house restaurants and bars, an excellent 24-hour gym, a spa, and an indoor swimming pool, the InterContinental is a great choice if you want to splurge on a few nights of luxury or are celebrating a special occasion.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/intercontinental-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Zentis Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka)
Zentis Osaka is a fairly new mid-sized hotel with a quiet yet central location. The rooms are modern and nicely designed, with hardwood floors, comfortable beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, a sofa, a fridge, and a seating area. The enormous flat screen has an Apple TV that provides streaming services like Netflix.
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Our Studio Room at Zentis Osaka
We stayed in a Studio Room (25 sqm) on the ground floor, and the layout was a bit unique. The bedroom and shower are separated by a glass wall, with roll-down blinds for privacy when showering. It worked well, but it may not be ideal for everyone. We really liked that the “kitchen” had a full set of cups and plates.
The lobby is fantastic! It is very cozy, with both indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of books, free coffee and tea, and even a fireplace\!
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Maria is exploring the book selection at [Zentis’s Osaka’s](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka) cozy lobby.
The second floor has a fitness center, a laundry room, and a vending machine.
We chose to book without breakfast, so we didn’t get to try that, but there are plenty of great places to eat breakfast nearby. There is also a Family Mart and a McDonalds right next door. We walked to Osaka Station in about 10 minutes.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/zentis-osaka)
[***Harmonie Embrassee***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka)
The Harmonie Embrassee is a little gem of a hotel that, in many ways, is a match for the more expensive 5-star hotels. It’s simply super comfortable and clean, with surprisingly large rooms (enough space for several suitcases), friendly staff, and incredible city views through large windows. The location is equally top-notch, with Hankyu Umeda Station only 3 minutes away by foot and JR Osaka Station less than 10 minutes.
The spacious rooms have a super comfortable bed, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, an electric kettle, a fridge, and a coffee machine. And you get bathrobes and free toiletries. Some rooms have a balcony where you can enjoy the city view. It is simply a great place to stay and offers excellent value for the money\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/harmonie-embrassee-osaka)
***[Hotel Noum OSAKA](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka)*** This stylish hotel opened in August 2019 and has a cool and relaxed hipster vibe. The rooms are not the most spacious, but they have everything you need and are super cozy. The design is Scandinavian-inspired, with large windows that face the river.
Downstairs, there is a fantastic bar, cafe, and breakfast area, and there are washing/dryer machines on some of the floors.
You can easily walk to Osaka Castle within 20 minutes (walk across Tenma Bridge). With a friendly staff and a central location in a lovely neighborhood with cute cafes and restaurants, the Noum Osaka is a great choice.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/noum-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Hotel Wing International Select Osaka Umeda***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka)
Have you seen the movie “The Great Gatsby” from 2013 starring Leonardo DiCaprio? This hotel is like taken out of that movie! It has the same 20th-century design and vibe to it. Even the hotel’s cafe and bar is called Gatsby, which I find very fitting. An extra bonus is the free welcome drink in the Gatsby bar.
The rooms are small but very stylish, clean, and comfortable, and they all come with a private bathroom with a bathtub. You can’t beat the price and the location; just a 5-10 min walk from JR Osaka Station, with lots of restaurants and shopping streets right around the corner. A good deal\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/wing-international-osaka)
[***Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka)
I love the design of this hotel, especially the welcoming lobby area with its cozy seating. Well-equipped, although small rooms, with a relaxed vibe. Good location not far from Umeda Station (a 10-min walk). The price is a real bonus for this central location. Modern and clean, the hotel opened in October 2018, so still relatively new. The complimentary breakfast is okay, coffee, bread, and muffins, but nothing special. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/nest_osaka)
***
### 3\. Tennoji Area
*Best hotels in Tennoji Area: [Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka?clickref=_amcid-7JsiFVQONe3l77qQ7AAQr), [Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka?clickref=_amcid-sqr36oEqoxY2bmE3EUFbO), [Khaosan World Tennoji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-2e3OQbOqireYmF7OF6VOI)*
Tennoji is the old part of Osaka. It lies just south of Minami, and you can easily walk between these two areas.
Once, it had a reputation as a slightly seedy area, but Tennoji has seen quite a revival in recent years, especially since Japan’s second tallest building, Abeno Harukas, finished construction in 2014.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Shinsekai-area-Osaka-Japan.jpg)
Tennoji is the old part of Osaka with lots of cheap restaurants and pubs. Here is the Shinsekai neighborhood with its iconic Tsutenkaku Tower.
The area around Shinsekai is very photogenic, with Osaka’s answer to the Eiffel Tower, Tsutenkaku Tower, at its center.
#### Why Stay In The Tennoji Area?
##### **Cheap And Plentiful Food**
This area has many cheap restaurants, especially in the Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji. Many of the restaurants here specialize in Kushikatsu, battered, deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers, which goes perfectly with a beer or two.
##### **Relaxed Atmosphere And Budget-Friendly Accommodation**
Tennoji is more relaxed than busy Minami, though it has a bustling bar and restaurant street. It is also a great area to look for budget accommodation.
##### **Well Connected**
Tennoji station is very well connected, being on the main Midosuji line and the Osaka loop line.
#### Things To See And Do In Tennoji Area
- **Shinsekai Neighborhood**
Shinsekai meaning “New World”, has become the old town of Osaka. It used to be a cutting-edge amusement park, but time has transformed it into a cool entertainment district full of cheap restaurants and bars with a retro vibe.
- **Tsutenkaku Tower**
The 103-meter-tall tower, also called Osaka Tower, is located in the Shinsekai Neighborhood and is a landmark in Osaka. Inside, you will find a nostalgic entertainment arcade /pachinko, mahjong parlors, and an observation deck.
- **Abeno Harukas Building**
While the Tokyo Sky Tree is Japan’s tallest structure the Abeno Harukas Building in Osaka is Japan’s tallest building with its 300 meters. It has an observation deck on the top floor, and although it is not open-air, you get a fantastic 360-degree view of Osaka City through the large floor-to-roof windows. Inside is Japan’s largest department store, a small open-air atrium, and the Abeno Harukas Art Museum.
Quick tip: if you want to skip the ticket line, [you can buy your tickets online here.](https://nerdnomads.com/go/abeno_harukas_ticket)
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The observation deck at Abeno Harukas – Japan’s tallest building
- **Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine**
An ancient Buddhist Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea and sea travel was built in the 3rd century. The grounds are crisscrossed by a waterway lined with trees and lanterns. The canal also has a beautiful bright orange drum bridge.
- **Tennoji Zoo** This zoo opened in 1915 and is the home of about 1000 animals of 170 different species.
- **Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts**
#### What’s The Catch?
The Shinsekai neighborhood of Tennoji is starting to show its age and some parts are frankly looking a little run down.
It also gets busy and loud in the evenings, especially during weekends and public holidays, when the crowds flock to the many restaurants and pubs in search of cheap food and drinks.
#### Where To Stay In Tennoji Area
##### Top End
[***Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka)
This is an excellent 5-star hotel with a great location in the Abeno Harukas building, Japan’s tallest building! The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable, with everything you expect from an international luxury hotel. Since they are all located above the 38th floor, the view is simply unbeatable.
You get free tickets to visit the Abeno Harukas rooftop observation deck (part of our [recommended Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary)). Guests can work out at the fitness center in the Abeno Harukas building and shop at the giant Kintetsu Department Store (with many restaurants and shops) located on the lower floors of the building. The hotel has direct access to Tennoji Station, where you can take five different subway lines and two JR Lines, so it is very convenient for getting around Osaka and elsewhere in Japan. One of the best luxury hotels in Osaka\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mariott-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Hotel Trusty Osaka Abeno***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka)
We stayed at Hotel Trusty in Kanazawa and loved it! It is a great hotel chain with excellent service and hospitality. It is just across the street from the lovely Tennoji Park, which is beautifully lit in the evenings. This Hotel Trusty has the perfect location, right next to Tennoji Station (JR trains, subway, and local trains), making it easy to get around Osaka and neighboring cities.
There are also plenty of restaurants and shopping options nearby, and the hotel has an in-house Japanese restaurant serving teppanyaki, where the chef cooks the food on an iron plate in front of you. The rooms are decent sized, with enough space to open the suitcases and walk around comfortably.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/trusty-osaka)
##### Budget
[***Khaosan World Tennoji***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka)
A charming Japanese-style hostel with both private and dormitory rooms. All rooms have air-conditioning, heating, and a private bathroom with a shower. You can also use the cozy common areas like the shared kitchen and a lounge with tatami (woven-straw mat) floors. After a long day of sightseeing, you can soak your feet in the hotel’s foot bath. There is a vending machine with complimentary coffee, tea, water, and sports drinks. Breakfast is basic but filling, with a choice of toast and soup. You can easily walk to Tennoji Station, and the Abeno Harukas Building is just 10 minutes away.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/khaosan-tennoji-hostel-osaka)
***
### 4\. Hommachi Area
*Best hotels in Hommachi Area: [St Regis Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka?clickref=_amcid-VbmxJEeNPNYzAqVBFUE2z), [The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-JMYqPZ677AoNm277xgJUb), [Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka), [Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi), [Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka?clickref=_amcid-M63VZs2BIi7qmMEQBp3ZU), [Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka?clickref=_amcid-BzEFeel7ZrIrPVBebZrB3), [Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka?clickref=_amcid-bArBQYJlJplg3ppx2bVMU)*
Osaka’s downtown area is split into two areas, Kita to the north and Minami to the south. Right in the middle of them lies Hommachi, a much quieter neighborhood that is, for the most part, office and residential in nature.
Apart from one of central Osaka’s most popular parks, Utsubo Park, there aren’t many sights to see here. However, there are some excellent hotels in the area, and prices here generally tend to be lower than downtown.
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Hommachi is a predominantly residential area with Utsubo Park as its centerpiece.
Hommachi has its own subway station on the Midosuji line, so you can use the subway to get around. The area’s central location also means that if you, like us, love to walk, you can walk to both Kita and Minami.
#### Why Stay In Hommachi
##### **Quiet Yet Central**
If you prefer to stay in a quiet area and still be able to walk to downtown Osaka, then Hommachi is an excellent choice.
##### **Some Excellent Hotels At More Affordable Prices**
There are some excellent hotels in the Hommachi area, and since it is considered slightly less central, accommodation prices tend to be lower than in more central areas.
Utsubo-Koen Park is another reason to stay in Hommachi. It provides a welcome green escape in an area with few parks. Inside the park is a rose garden with over 160 different kinds of roses and a tennis center that sometimes arranges international tennis tournaments.
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Utsubo-Koen Park is beautiful in autumn.
The park is a popular picnic spot on the weekends and late afternoons, and in spring, it is one of Osaka’s most popular places to see the Cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
#### Things To See And Do In Hommachi
- **Utsubo Park** As one of central Osaka’s very few parks, it is a great place to go for a walk, relax, or join the locals on a picnic. There is also a rose garden and a tennis center with 16 courts. In the fall, the large leafy trees turn a deep orange, and it is one of Osaka’s most popular spots for Cherry Blossom.
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Maria walking in Utsubo-Koen Park in autumn
- **Utsubo Bakery Panena** Utsubo Bakery Panena is one of the city’s best bakeries and is our favorite place to pick up some picnic food before heading to the park.
#### What’s The Catch?
Hommachi gets very quiet in the evenings, with little to no nightlife, and the neighborhood doesn’t have many sights to see.
#### Where to stay in Hommachi
##### Top End
[***St Regis Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
If you want to splurge a bit on your hotel stay in Osaka, this is an excellent choice. The five-star St Regis Osaka oozes luxury and is located directly on top of the Hommachi Subway Station’s Exit 7, making it easy to get around the city.
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Maria outside a Christmas decorated [St Regis Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
The European-styled rooms have magnificent city views and are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine. They also have a spacious French-style marble bathroom with a shower with four body jets, a bathtub, a built-in LCD TV, and a plush bathrobe. Perfect for relaxation after a full day of sightseeing, you even get your private butler, who can make reservations for sightseeing, dinner, and tickets\!
The hotel also has a fitness gym, a business center, and a lovely rooftop Japanese garden to enjoy the city view. If you don’t want to go out for dinner, you can have an excellent Italian meal at La Veduta restaurant on the 12th floor with a great view, a drink at St Regis Bar, or some French dishes at the hotel’s cafe. And for more options, you can easily walk to the restaurant area of Dotonbori within 15 minutes or so.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/st-regis-osaka)
***[The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Osaka Midosuji](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka)*** This is one of Osaka’s newest 5-star luxury hotels. The rooms look stunning with a fresh design, comfortable beds, and large bathrooms with bathtubs near the windows. It’s the perfect place to soak and relax while enjoying the city view after a day of sightseeing.
The nearest subway station, Hommachi Station, is a 5-minute walk away. From there, you are only two stops from downtown Osaka, which has attractions such as Dotombori Restaurant Street. Osaka Castle is about a 30-minute walk away, or you can easily take the subway.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/royal-park-hotel-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka) Hotel Resol Osaka is a mid-sized hotel with a lovely interior design. We stayed in a Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm), which was fairly small but stylishly decorated and well-equipped with air conditioning, a fridge, an electric water kettle, and a large-screen TV. The bathroom is typically Japanese compact, with a small but deep bathtub.
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We arrived late at the [Hotel Resol Trinity](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
The hotel’s star attraction is the lovely Onsen (Japanese hot spring public bath) on the first floor, which was a joy to use in the evening after sightseeing all day. Some very convenient amenities include vending machines, icemakers, microwave ovens, and water refill stations on some floors. The laundry room on the fifth floor came in very handy with several washers and dryers.
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Our cozy Hollywood Twin Room (19 sqm) at [Hotel Resol Trinity](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
Another highlight is the friendly and helpful staff, who spoke excellent English. The rooms are cleaned every other day, but fresh towels are delivered daily.
The surrounding neighborhood is quiet, with mostly businesses, but there are some restaurants and a 7-Eleven right around the corner from the hotel. We had lunch at an excellent Vietnamese restaurant just down the street. Right next to the hotel is Cacaotier Gokan, a specialty chocolate shop with all kinds of chocolate treats.
The closest subway station is Yodoyabasji Station, just a five-minute walk away. From here, you can get to Namba Station in three stops.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/resol-trinity-osaka)
***[Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi)*** With spotlessly clean, modern rooms, tasteful decor, friendly staff, a great location, and an affordable price, Hotel Cordia Osaka has become one of Hommachi’s most popular hotels.
Room sizes vary from quite compact to spacious Premiere rooms at 40 sqm. However, even the smaller rooms, like the Basic Double (20 sqm), have a layout that uses the space very effectively. All rooms have super comfortable beds, a working desk, a seating area, strong fast Wi-Fi, and a large-screen TV with Netflix and Prime Video. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are replenished daily. The bathroom is equally modern and fresh, with a fantastic rainfall shower.
Guests can use the laundry room, vending machines, microwave oven, and ice makers.
Honmmachi Station is less than a five-minute walk away, and from there, it’s two stops to either Namba or Umeda. A 7-Eleven and a Family Mart are just down the street, and Utsubo Park is four minutes away. If you go to the park, I’d highly recommend stopping by Utsubo Bakery Panena and picking up some delicious pastries\!
Breakfast is excellent, although some might find the options a little limited. Overall, this is a fantastic three-star hotel that offers serious value.
[Click Here For The Latest Prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka-hommachi)
[***Moxy Osaka Hommachi by Marriott***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka)
This stylish hotel has a youthful hipster vibe. The rooms are well-equipped and have a cozy, homey atmosphere. There is a bar where a DJ plays on Fridays and Saturdays, and they have darts and table football. The location is also very convenient: it is a 5-minute walk from Sakaisuji Honamchi Subway Station, so you can quickly get around the city. You can walk to Osaka Castle in about 10 minutes.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/moxy-osaka)
[***Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka)
This elegant hotel is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk from Kitahama Station in a quiet business neighborhood. The rooms are big, modern, and comfortable. The hotel has a Japanese in-house restaurant, two convenience stores just opposite the hotel, and several small restaurants close by.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/brighton-city-osaka)
***[Hotel Yururito Osaka Apartment Hotel](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka)***
A fairly new apartment hotel with various-sized apartments available. The largest apartment, the deluxe family room, sleeps eight people. Perfect for families or a group of friends. All apartments have a small kitchen and sitting area with large screen TV. Hommachi subway station is just a couple of minutes walk away, and you can easily walk to Utsubo Park. Some rooms have a balcony, and all have a private bathroom with all amenities included.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/yururito-osaka)
***
### 5\. Nakanoshima Island Area
*Best hotels in Nakanoshima Area: [Conrad Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka?clickref=_amcid-QmOmNEABI6VxBYxJbBxox), [Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka?clickref=_amcid-BPVz6ssOsVMzMIMBpxMib), [Hotel Cordia Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka?clickref=_amcid-xmzmQoO72NoqUYz73Us2Q)*
The island Nakanoshima is squeezed between the two rivers Dojima-gawa and Tosabori-gawa. Naka-no-Shima used to be primarily a business district with office buildings but has, in recent years, seen something of a hipster revival.
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The riverwalk alongTosabori-gawa river
Cool restaurants, trendy fashion shops, and retro coffee shops have popped up and made this neighborhood a popular alternative base for exploring the city. There are lovely riverside walkways to explore and lots of museums, and Nakanoshima Koen Park, with its rose garden, is well worth a visit.
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The lovely Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden
#### Why Stay In The Nakanoshima Area?
##### **Peaceful Residential Area With A Hipster Vibe**
Naka-no-Shima is a peaceful residential area with a hipster vibe. The area has several subway stations (including Higobashi, Kitahama, and Watanebebashi) and also a couple of railway stations. Naka-no-Shima Island is only a 15-minute walk from JR Osaka Railway Station.
You can walk from Nokonoshima Island along the riverwalk to Osaka Castle in about 30-40 minutes. Along the way, you can stop off at some cozy coffee shops like Moto Coffee, Graf, or our favorite, Smorebrod Kitchen.
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Nokonoshima Island Riverwalk at night
#### Things To See And Do In Nakanoshima Area
- **Nakanoshima Park & Rose Garden** A lovely riverside park with a beautiful rose garden. Also if you get hungry, check out the R Riverside Grill & Beer Garden inside the park.
- **Graf** Graf is a trendy coffee shop run by one of Osaka’s leading design firms. In addition to drinks and tasty cakes, the cafe is also a design shop with locally designed carts, crafts, furniture, and tableware.
- ****Smorebrod Kitchen****
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Maria having lunch at Smorebrod Kitchen
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Danish style sandwiches
- **Museum Of Oriental Ceramics**
One of the best collections of Chinese and Korean ceramics in the world. You will also find a smaller collection of Japanese ceramics. The exhibitions are all displayed with complete English descriptions.
- **Have dinner at Kitahama Terrace** Head to Kitahama Terrace nearby Naniwa Bridge for dinner where many restaurants have outdoor seating with riverside views.
- **Osaka Central Public Hall** The building, constructed in 1913 and beautifully restored, is famous for its elegant neoclassic architecture. Today, it is used for events, concerts, and lectures.
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The elegant Osaka Central Public Hall
- **National Museum of Art** A subterranean museum displaying international art
- **The Osaka Science Museum** The museum has exhibitions on topics such as the universe, electricity, and chemistry, as well as a planetarium and daily science shows.
#### Where To Stay In Nakanoshima
##### Top-Range
[***Conrad Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
This beautiful 5-star Conrad hotel has all the luxury you would want: modern and comfortable rooms, four dining options, a heated indoor pool, and spectacular views of Osaka City.
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The absolutely stunning view from [Conrad Osaka’s lobby](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
The hotel has a convenient and quiet location on the Naka-no-Shima island, just between the Kita and Minami areas. By staying here, you are just a 5-minute walk from Higobashi Station, where JR Osaka Station is only a 7-minute train ride away. The hotel has spa and wellness facilities and a well-equipped gym. This is simply a fantastic luxury hotel\!
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/conrad-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka)
Do you like Onsen (hot spring bath) just as much as I do? If so, this 4-star hotel is perfect for you! It is one of the very few hotels in Osaka with a public bath/ Onsen located on the hotel’s top floor. It has both an outdoor jacuzzi and an indoor hot pool (men and women have separate baths).
The spacious rooms are super cozy, with wooden floors and a delicate design. All rooms come with a TV, fridge, electronic kettle, and private bathroom (with bathtub and free toiletries). There are lots of restaurants, a Family Mart, and a 7-Eleven supermarket next door. You can walk to Osaka Subway Station in 12 minutes or take the free shuttle from the JR Osaka Station (a 7-minute drive from the hotel). It is close to the river, so some rooms have a fantastic riverside view.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/mitsui-garden-osaka)
***[Hotel Cordia Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka)***
This is a lovely, modern, and chic hotel that is excellent value for your money. The rooms are clean and comfortable and, by Japanese standards, fairly spacious. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from two subway stations (Higobashi Station and Yodoyabashi Station). You can borrow a smartphone for free to bring with you when you go around the city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/cordia-osaka)
***
### 6\. Osaka Castle Area
*Best hotels in Osaka Castle Area: [Hotel New Otani Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka?clickref=_amcid-2qsYEJIlE3M2Z6A2QgAJZ), [KKR Hotel Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-sBU3O6eEgFVIlYmEoEQrr), [TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Pele7gP6PembNIMpQAEle)*
[Osaka Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle), or Osaka-jo, is Osaka’s biggest attraction. More than 2.5 million visitors come to see the castle and its surrounding Osaka Castle Park every year.
The castle itself is eight stories tall and is beautifully illuminated in the evenings.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/A3_08311.jpg)
The eight-story tall Osaka Castle
For more about Osaka castle including a full walking route of all its main sights, see our [guide to Osaka Castle](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle).
#### Why Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
The main attractions here are Osaka Castle and the huge castle park. It is especially lovely in spring during cherry blossom season when hundreds of cherry blossom trees turn pink.
**Beat The Crowds At Osaka Castle**
If you stay in the area, you can beat the crowds and experience the castle grounds before the tour busses arrive.
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/VIew_osaka_Castle.jpg)
View from the top of Osaka Castle
#### Things To See And Do Around Osaka Castle
- **Osaka Museum Of History**
This museum is built on the old ruins of Naniwa Palace, finished in 652 AD. Sadly it was destroyed by fire after 34 years in 686 AD. At this museum, you will learn the history of Osaka from the era of the Naniwa Palace up to the early 20th century. You get a fantastic view of Osaka Castle from the 10th floor of this museum. See the museum’s [website](http://www.mus-his.city.osaka.jp/eng/index.html) for opening hours.
- **Picnic in the park** Do as the locals do and have a picnic on the Osaka park grounds.
- **Osaka Castle**
The highlight of this area, and the most popular attraction in Osaka, is the stunning bright white Osaka Castle. It is a must-visit if you are in Osaka.
⇒ [Read more about Osaka Castle & the best walking route here](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-castle)
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Maria exploring the Osaka Castle grounds
- **Try one of Osaka’s best French bakeries**
[Boulangerie Gout Bakery](https://derien.co.jp/) [& Cafe](https://derien.co.jp/) is one of the best bakeries in Osaka. You can eat in the Cafe or bring food to the park for a picnic.
- **Take a riverside walk** You can walk along the riverside from Osaka Castle and end at Naka-no-Shima island.
#### What’s The Catch?
You’ll have no problem finding a place to eat, but if you want more options, you’ll have to take the subway or a taxi to Dotombori Restaurant Street (a 10-minute subway ride, three stops).
There aren’t many hotels within easy walking distance of the park and castle, so if you want to stay in this area, your choice of accommodation will be limited.
#### Where To Stay In The Osaka Castle Area
##### Top End
***[Hotel New Otani Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka)***
This 5-star hotel has excellent views of Osaka Castle and the park, situated just across the river from the castle grounds. Nothing beats seeing Osaka Castle lit up at night from your hotel window. The hotel is huge, with spacious rooms and several in-house restaurants, both Japanese and international, shops, a spa/ massage, a hot tub, and a sauna. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to and from Kyoto, and the Osaka Wonder Loop Sightseeing Bus departs and arrives from the hotel. There are two subway stations close by, so you can easily get around the city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/new-otani-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***KKR Hotel Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka)
If you want a spectacular view of Osaka Castle from your hotel room, then KKR Hotel Osaka is the one. The castle view from the restaurant on the 12th floor is amazing. Osaka Castle Park is just across the road from the hotel. The hotel offers a shuttle bus service to the subway station every 20 minutes. Make sure you book a (renovated) castle view room with the breakfast option, as breakfast is excellent.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/kkr-hotel-osaka)
***[TAKETO STAY Osakajo Apartments](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka)***
Taketo Stay is a new apartment hotel (May 2020). All rooms have a fully equipped kitchen (including a microwave, fridge, stovetop, kettle, and coffee machine), a balcony, a private bathroom with a tub and clothes washing machine, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV. This is perfect for families or those who want to be able to cook their own food. The rooms have a modern and fresh design. A subway station (Kyobashi Station) is only a 2-minute walk from the hotel.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/taketo-stay-osaka)
***
### 7\. Osaka Bay Area
*Best hotels in Osaka Bay Area/ Universal Studios Japan: [Hyatt Regency Osaka](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka?clickref=_amcid-Z6YsZx33VrIzVJOVMOYFQ), [The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-ZggZJoMoFlmbVUIYMgeUE), [Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka?clickref=_amcid-P6QBEzFsEOiYgAze33or7), [Hotel Universal Port Vita](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka?clickref=_amcid-IUesm7BmPrYY77PAsBFJY), [J-Hoppers Osaka Universal](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka?clickref=_amcid-6rM6IE7PJmYzsZgOeYpbN), [Hotel Lodge Maishima](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka?clickref=_amcid-eVF6iPNJrsxIUMUlZBmUm)*
The bay area of Osaka is located southwest of downtown. It is home to two entertainment hubs: **Universal Studios Japan** and Tempozan, which includes the **Osaka Aquarium**, a huge Ferris wheel, and a shopping center with lots of restaurants.
Several ferries depart and arrive at Osaka Nanko Port for destinations in Shikoku (Ehime), Kyushu (Beppu and Kagoshima, and Kita-Kyushu north of Fukuoka), and Okinawa (Naha).
[ Pin](https://nerdnomads.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Amazing-views-Umeda-Sky-Building-Osaka.jpg)
Osaka Bay area has two big entertainment hubs – Universal Studios Japan and Tempozan (with the aquarium and Ferris wheel)
#### Why Stay In The Osaka Bay Area?
##### **Some Of Japan’s Biggest Tourist Attractions**
The primary and really only reason to stay in the Osaka Bay area is if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and/ or Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, or if you’re taking the ferry to, for instance, Okinawa Islands.
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The 112m tall Tempozan Ferris Wheel
#### Things To See And Do In Osaka Bay Area
- **Universal Studios Japan**
A fantastic amusement park that bursts with rides, shows, shops, and restaurants with Hollywood movie-related themes. Its highlight is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a recreating of Hogsmeade Village with its famous “Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey” thrill ride through Hogwart’s School.
If you would like to skip the ticket line you can [buy your entry tickets online here](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal_studios_japan_ticket)
- **Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan**
Japan’s best aquarium with an impressive display of sea life from the Pacific Ocean, like Antarctic penguins, coral-reef butterflyfish, Arctic otters (so cute!), seals, and jellyfish. Here you can see a giant tank filled with whale sharks, manta rays, and thousands of other fish. You can also see dolphins here.
You can also buy tickets [for the aquarium online](https://nerdnomads.com/go/osaka_aquarium_kaiyukan)
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Maria admiring the sea life at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- **Tempozan Ferris Wheel**
112 meters tall, offers a brilliant view of Osaka, Kobe, and the bay area.
#### What’s The Catch?
The Osaka Bay area is a bit out of town. It takes about 30 min by train to get from Osaka Bay to downtown Osaka.
The area also lacks a local Japanese vibe, as most restaurants and shopping malls around Universal Studios Japan are very American-inspired. It feels like being in the USA instead of Japan.
#### Where To Stay In Osaka Bay Area
##### Top End
[***Hyatt Regency Osaka***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka)
A fabulous 5-star hotel with a stunning ocean view, especially at sunset. It is located in a quiet and peaceful area right by Osaka Bay. It is popular with business travelers as it is right next to Japan’s World Trade Centre. It is an outstanding hotel with a rooftop pool (both indoor and outdoor), a spa and beauty salon, a gym, and five restaurants. You can quickly get into downtown Osaka, as the Nakafuto Subway Station is only a 3-minute walk away from the hotel.
There is a free shuttle service that takes you to/ from Osaka/ Umeda Station downtown (a 25-min ride one way). You can get to Universal Studios Japan by taking a taxi (a 15-min drive), and to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (a 10-min drive). This is a fantastic hotel to stay at if you want some luxury and peace and quiet, a lovely ocean view, and want to do day-trips to Universal Studios, Osaka Aquarium, and downtown Osaka.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/hyatt-regency-osaka)
##### Mid-Range
[***The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka)
Of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan, The Park Front Hotel is the closest to the park. It is just opposite the main gate, just a few steps away from the action, and you get a great view of the park from your hotel window. The hotel design is based on a time travel concept, and as you walk through the hotel, you are transported through different decades in US history. The rooms are enormous, especially by Japanese standards.
There are several on-site restaurants, cafes, a convenience store, and shops. The hotel has a convenient location also if you want to go to downtown Osaka. You can easily walk to Universal City Station within a few minutes, where you can take the train to the downtown JR Osaka Station (a 12-minute ride) and JR Shin-Osaka Station (a 20-minute ride) to see Osaka city or get to other parts of Japan. A convenient and comfortable hotel to stay at if you want to visit Universal Studios Japan.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/park-front-hotel-osaka)
[***Liber Hotel at Universal Studios Japan***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka)
The newest of the eight official hotels at Universal Studios Japan opened in May 2019. You can easily walk to Universal Studios (5-7 min). The hotel has a stylish design with spacious, comfortable rooms (also large family rooms for up to six people).
The hotel’s terrace, spa, and Onsen/ hot bath are the perfect place to wind down after a full day of walking around in the Universal Studios park. Lots of restaurants and a big convenient store close by. Incredible bayfront view from your hotel window. Sakurajima Station is just next door, making it easy to head into Osaka city.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/liber-hotel-osaka)
[***Hotel Universal Port Vita***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka)
A relatively new hotel (opened in 2018) right in front of Universal Studios Japan, and one of the park’s official hotels. It is a great place to stay if you plan on visiting Universal Studios Japan and prefer something a little more affordable than the two hotels mentioned above. The hotel’s design is inspired by the movie “Minions” (the animated film from 2015 with the little yellow characters with big eyes). Just wait till you get into the elevators! 🙂
The location is hard to beat, just opposite the Universal Citywalk Osaka shopping mall with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops and Universal City Station. Perfect for transportation into downtown Osaka or to neighboring cities like Kyoto, Himeji, and Nara. There is a convenience store on the first floor as well as laundry machines and dryers. Good value for your money, one of the cheapest official Universal Studios Japan hotels, and the service and standard is excellent! A great family hotel that is very kid-friendly.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/universal-port-vita-osaka)
##### Budget
[***J-Hoppers Osaka Universal***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka)
A super cute hostel with both private rooms and dormitory (mixed and female-only). It has a great location, just a 15-min walk from Universal Studios Japan and a few minutes’ walk from Ajikawaguchi Station from where you can reach Osaka Station in 10 min by subway. You can make your own food at the shared kitchen, where coffee and tea are free. The hostel has a lounge area where they show movies in the evenings. A spotless and quiet place, and a great budget option close to Universal Studios.
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/j-hoppers-osaka)
[***Hotel Lodge Maishima***](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka)
Hotel Lodge Maishima’s location is quite unique, on an island in Osaka Bay connected by a bridge to the mainland. It is a 3-star hotel with a restaurant, spa, and wellness center complete with Onsen/ hot spring bath. Here you stay in lodges/ cabins surrounded by beautiful nature and a vast garden.
There are several room types available from twin rooms to family rooms, all with shared bathrooms. All rooms have a terrace perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The hotel rents out bikes, and this is a great area to go for a bike ride. It’s quite far from Universal Studios but there is a train that will get you there in half an hour or you can take a taxi (15 min).
[Click here for the latest prices](https://nerdnomads.com/go/lodge-maishima-osaka)
***
### Summary Of The Best Areas To Stay In Osaka
##### Minami
- Best for nightlife and entertainment
- More restaurants and bars than you could ever visit
- Well connected by transportation
- Atmospheric old alleyways and ancient shrines
- Tons of accommodation options to choose from
⇒ [Read more about the Minami area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#minami-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Minami hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-minami)
##### Kita
- Lot’s of top end and upper mid-range hotels
- Plenty of restaurants and shopping malls
- Osaka’s largest transport hub, with easy access by train to the rest of the Kansai region, as well the city’s subway lines
⇒ [Read more about the Kita area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#kita-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Kita hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-kita)
##### Tennoji
- Less expensive accommodation than downtown Osaka
- Plenty of cheap eateries around the Shinsekai neighborhood
- The iconic Tsutenkaku Tower / Osaka Tower.
- Still well connected by subway
- An upcoming area in large part thanks to the attraction of Japan’s tallest building, the Abeno Harukas Building.
⇒ [Read more about the Tennoji area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#tennoji-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Tennoji hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-tennoji)
##### Hommachi
- Quiet area close to downtown Osaka
- Not a lot of sights but within walking distance of both Kita and Minami
- Utsubo-Koen Park, one of the few parks in central Osaka
- Typically lower hotel prices than in downtown
⇒ [Read more about the Hommachi area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#hommachi-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Hommachi hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-hommachi)
##### Nakanoshima Island
- An upcoming area with a hipster vibe
- Cozy coffee shops, riverside view restaurants, and designer shops
- Lovely park and rose garden
- Surprisingly well connected
⇒ [Read more about the Nakanoshima area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#nakanoshima-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Nakanoshima hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-nakanoshima)
##### Osaka Castle Area
- Easy access to Osaka Castle and the surrounding park, the city’s most popular attraction
- Especially wonderful during cherry blossom season
- Not super central so hotel prices tend to be lower (with the exception of cherry blossom season)
⇒ [Read more about the Osaka Castle area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#osaka-castle-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Osaka Castle hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-osaka-castle)
##### Osaka Bay & Universal Studios
- The best area to stay in for visiting Universal Studio or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
- Cool, high-end, modern hotels with an American theme
- If you’re planning on taking the ferry to for instance the Okinawa Islands
- A little out of the way for exploring the rest of Osaka
⇒ [Read more about the Osaka Bay area](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#osaka-bay-area)
⇒ [Click here for our recommended Osaka Bay / Universal Studio hotels](https://nerdnomads.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka#wts-osaka-bay)
***
There you have it, our favorite Osaka areas and accommodations with our recommended Osaka hotels in the five different areas of the city. Hopefully, you now know a bit more about Osaka’s many areas, and deciding where to stay in Osaka has become a little easier.
Where you should stay in Osaka depends on what you want to get out of your visit. Check out our [Osaka Itinerary](https://nerdnomads.com/osaka-itinerary) for tips on what to do in Osaka.
Have a fantastic stay in Osaka! ♥
**PIN IT FOR LATER\!** *Hover over the pictures below and click the red “Save” button that pops up:*
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**We intend to add more hotels and info about Osaka to this Osaka hotel guide in the future. So please let us know if you have any suggestions and tips about Osaka! What is your favorite area and hotel in Osaka? Do you miss any information in this “Where to stay in Osaka” guide? Please leave a comment in the comment area below. We would love to hear from you! Thank you\!** |
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