Where To Stay In Osaka: How Can You Make More Of Your Japan Trip?
Osaka is one of the most beautiful places in Japan. This city blends modern and traditional in a way that allows you to see a blend of the Japan of the present and of the past.
With so many beautiful sites to see in Osaka, I know how important it is to stay close to the main attractions. So I’ve gathered up some recommendations about the different accommodation options in the city that will help you make the most of your trip.
Stop wondering where to stay in Osaka and get ready for your next trip by planning your stay with my tips in hand!
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What Type Of Accommodations Are There In Osaka?
When planning a trip to Osaka, you should first decide what type of accommodations you want to stay in. Japan has a wonderful blend of both traditional and modern options available, so you should first decide the type that appeals to you.
Western-style Hotels:
The first option may be the most familiar to you. This is a standard type of accommodation around the world. With hotels, you can find something luxurious, functional, or affordable. If you’re looking to stay somewhere that feels a bit like home, go for this option.
Ryokans
Ryokans are a type of traditional Japanese hotel. If you want to dive into the local culture, this is the right option! Ryokans will feature personalized services and different types of Japanese culture activities that you might not get in other accommodations. While pricey, these are a great experience.
Hostels & Airbnb
Hostels:
If you’re on a budget, you can head for a guesthouse or hostel. These accommodations usually feature the bare minimum, but they will save you a lot of money.
Airbnb:
Live like a local with all different types of accommodations on Airbnb. I love choosing homes where you sleep on the floor (traditional Japanese style) and that come with a portable WiFi device while booking through Airbnb to make my travel more enjoyable!
Which Neighborhood Should I Stay In While Visiting Osaka?
Like every city, Osaka is made up of different neighborhoods that have different characteristics. Each of these neighborhoods offers various advantages either in attractions, location, or safety.
The main thing you’ll want to look for is convenient transportation options. Osaka is a big city, and many destinations that you will want to visit (such as Universal Studios) are not within walking distance from most locations.
There’s so much to see that you won’t want to miss anything:
The four neighborhoods I always recommend when visiting Osaka are:
- Kita
- Minami
- Hommachi
- Tennoji
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of some major neighborhoods, along with a few accommodation recommendations, in Osaka!
Kita (North Central Osaka)
Also known as Umeda. This area makes up part of downtown and is located between the Osaka and Umeda stations. This part of the city is more business sleek than tourist fun, but it can be a great option depending on your taste.
Pros
- Luxury shopping area; very sleek in design
- Centrally located
- Lots of contemporary restaurants and bars
- Best transport option because four train lines converge here
- Pleasant place to walk around
- Near some popular attractions including the museums of Nakanoshima, the Umeda Sky Building, and Kids Plaza Osaka.
Cons
- Expensive
- Lacks the traditional charm or oddities of other areas.
Three Great Options in Kita
- J-Hoppers Osaka Guest House
- The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
- The Westin Osaka
Minami (South Central Osaka)
Minami, also known as Namba, is the next best area to stay in while visiting Osaka. This is the most happening part of the city with plenty of shopping, restaurants, bars, and more to check out.
Pros
- Centrally located
- Convenient transportation options available
- Lots of shrines and parks in the area
- Located near Kuromon Ichiba Market and Den Den Town, two popular attractions
- Accommodations range from cheap to very expensive
Cons
- Very busy area
- Can be noisy, depending on where you are
- Some accommodations are sub-par, choose carefully
Three Great Hotel Options in Minami
- Asahiplaza Shinsaibashi Capsule Hotel and Sauna
- Hotel Ichiei (Ryokan Hotel)
- Holiday Inn Osaka Namba
Hommachi (Central Osaka)
Hommachi is a great place to stay that will put you right between Kita and Minami. If you want the best of both worlds and a quieter area, this the right place for you to stay.
Pros
- Walking distance to both Kita and Minami (if you’re a keen walker, like me!)
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Lots of restaurants
- Midosuji subway line can take you to more popular lines
Cons
- Not as busy as other areas
- Less shopping and dining options than Minami
- Only located on one major subway line
Three Great Hotel Options In Hommachi
- Tokyo Inn Osaka Semba
- Arietta Hotel Osaka
- St. Regis Osaka
Tennoji Area
Farther south in Osaka is the Tennoji Area. This area is growing by the day as it becomes more populated with shopping, restaurants, and accommodations. The streets still have a more run down vibe in comparison with the rest of Osaka, but it’s perfectly safe.
Pros
- Lots to do and see in the area, with the zoo and shrines nearby
- Michelin rated takoyaki restaurant (Yamachan) is a must visit
- Quiet, less expensive
- Good shopping and dining options
Cons
- Less popular than other areas
- Lacking in transportation options
Three Great Hotel Options in Tennoji
- Hotel and Resort Bali Tower Tennoji
- Osaka Marriot Miyako Hotel
- Tennoji Miyako Hotel
It’s Time To Go To Osaka
Have you figured where to stay in Osaka?
Trust me when I say that this beautiful city will offer you a fantastic trip no matter where you stay. But you should still consider what you want to do while in the city to make sure that you stay somewhere convenient.
All of these options are great choices, but do you have any other suggestions? Let me know in the comments, and then share my recommendations with any friends who have been dreaming of visiting Japan!
