Where to Book a Stay in Osaka for a Local Experience

With the classic futon bedding and tatami mat floors of a traditional ryokan inn, Hotel Yu-shu combines a retro look with modern conveniences such as kitchenettes and balconies. Restaurants, bars and shops surround the hotel, with historic attractions nearby including Namba Shrine, a Shinto shrine instantly recognisable by its lion-head gate. Car rental can be organised by the hotel to help you explore further afield.

This modern guesthouse sits in the commercial Abeno district of Osaka, within easy reach of Abenobashi train station. Rooms are colourful and contemporary, with bright striped walls and wooden floors, while the common areas have a Hawaiian theme, with surfboards and palm trees lending a beachy vibe. Some rooms have kitchenettes, so you can self-cater if you wish, but there are plenty of restaurants nearby to sample traditional Osakan cuisine.

When you’re considering where to stay in Osaka, a capsule hotel is always something to investigate. These compact but space-age pods, with TVs built into the ceiling above your bed, offer the classic experience. Larger capsules, with two beds and a desk, are also available. In contrast to the modern design of the pods, the hotel spa has a traditional aesthetic, with a classic hot bath, sauna and massage room.

Distilling the arty, extraverted essence of Osaka, this towering glass and steel monolith has an enviable location on Osaka Bay and contains colourful, contemporary guest rooms. Among the several top-class restaurants is Kappo Minato, which specialises in exquisite multi-course kaiseki cuisine – try the okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) – while you can enjoy natural thermal baths at Solaniwa Onsen.

There’s a modern, almost Scandi feel about this apartment, with light pine furniture and a refreshing colour palette of whites, greys and icy blues. Comfy sofas and a covered terrace offer plentiful places to relax, while the kitchenette means you can cook for yourself – although, given the number of brilliant traditional restaurants nearby, it’s hard to resist eating out.

The InterContinental is where to stay in Osaka if you’re seeking an international brand you know you can trust. The name has long been a byword for quality and a kind of robust elegance, both of which are very much in evidence at this classic hotel. Rooms have a mid-century modern aesthetic and afford some great city views, while the superb Pierre Restaurant offers gourmet cuisine in an atmospheric setting – be sure to give the signature olive beef a try.

Diverse accommodation is on offer at this professionally run aparthotel, from cabin-style dorms with opposing bunk beds to traditional Japanese-style rooms, where cushions are set on tatami mat floors during the waking hours and futon bedding can be brought out when it’s time to go to sleep. The family rooms feature leather sofas and kitchens, so everything you need for a home away from home is at your fingertips.

Holding the flag for all things contemporary and cool, this boutique design hotel will appeal to those of an artistic bent, with atmospheric common areas, smouldering indoor fire pits and a profusion of dark wood. Despite the modern look, this is a great place to experience ancient Japanese traditions, such as the tea ceremony. The lavish breakfasts offer a great chance to try classic dishes such as chikuzenni (chicken stew).

The stars of this friendly hostel are no doubt the smiley Shiba Inu dogs that call the place home and enthusiastically greet guests, but there’s much else to recommend it, from the relaxed pine-decked dormitories (twin and family rooms are also available) to the comfy sofas and beanbags of the laid-back common room. Every weekend there’s a takoyaki (octopus dumplings) party, where you can feast on the delicious dish – an Osaka classic.