For those planning a trip to Japan, considering a stay in Osaka might be on your agenda. Osaka is filled with attractive tourist spots and delicious food. If you have a limited schedule, it’s important to think about where you should stay.
In this article we’ll introduce some places to stay at which we think will make your first visit to Osaka more enjoyable, as well as must-see spots and places to give you an unforgettable journey to the city.
1.Where to Stay in Osaka First Time?
Osaka is one of Japan’s major cities. To create unforgettable memories on your first trip to Osaka, it’s essential to understand the characteristics and selection criteria of suitable accommodation areas.
Below, we introduce six accommodation areas suitable for your first trip to Osaka.
1-1.Kita Area
The Kita area is a region that includes JR Osaka Station, as well as Umeda Station on the Midosuji Subway Line and the Hankyu Railway. By taking the JR or subway from the Kita area, you can easily travel to the main tourist destinations in Osaka.
The Kita area is filled with skyscrapers and large department stores, making it a region with a modern cityscape. The sidewalks in the Kita area are well-maintained, allowing for stress-free strolling. If you want to shop in the Kita area, be sure to visit the large department stores around Umeda Station.
With its abundance of attractive hotels, you won’t have trouble finding a place to stay in the Kita area. The nights are relatively quiet, ensuring a good night’s sleep if you choose to stay in the Kita area.
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1-2.Minami Area
Minami is an area that includes JR Namba Station, as well as Namba Station on the Midosuji Subway Line and the Nankai Railway. The Minami area thrived during the Edo period as a district where merchants coming to Osaka from other cities in Japan would entertain themselves after work. Today’s Minami area is still full of entertainment spots, giving it a lively, energetic vibe.
“Denden Town” in the Minami area is known for its anime and game specialty stores. If you’re interested in Japanese otaku culture, make sure to check out Denden Town!
The Minami area offers a variety of guesthouses and hostels for affordable accommodation options. Of course, there are also luxury hotels in Minami, so you can find a place to stay that matches your travel theme and budget.
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1-3.Honmachi Area
Honmachi is an area located midway between Kita and Minami. Although not as lively as the Kita or Minami areas, the quietness at night makes it a great place for those who want to relax more leisurely after long days of traveling in Osaka. In the Honmachi area, you can find more affordable accommodation options compared to hotels in the Kita or Minami areas.
The Honmachi area also boasts a large park, covering approximately 9.7 hectares. Strolling through the park’s rose garden and zelkova tree-lined paths, you can experience the beauty of Japan’s four seasons.
出典：Osaka City’s Flower and Greenery Information Site “Utsubo Park”
1-4.Tennoji Area
Tennoji is an area that includes Osaka Abenobashi Station on the Kintetsu Minami Osaka Line and Tennoji Station on the Midosuji Subway Line. Within walking distance from Tennoji Station, there is also Abeno Station on the Subway Tanimachi Line.
Originally, Tennoji had a retro atmosphere, but it has rapidly developed since the construction of its landmark tower. The current Tennoji area features large commercial facilities and parks, giving it a modern impression.
For those who want to enjoy the good old Osaka cityscape, visit “Shinsekai” in Tennoji, where nostalgic streetscapes still remain. Shinsekai is abundant in dining establishments frequented by locals. When visiting Shinsekai, it’s recommended to take photogenic pictures at “Tsutenkaku,” a famous tourist spot.
Hotels in the Tennoji area are relatively affordable. There are hostels with dormitory rooms in Tennoji, making it suitable for those looking for cost-effective accommodation options.
Explore the Deep World of Shinsekai in Osaka! Introducing Popular Tourist Spots
1-5.Osaka Castle Area
The area around Osaka Castle offers a sense of Osaka’s history and romance. The castle’s main tower is one of the largest in Japan and is a popular photo spot that provides panoramic views of Osaka. The surroundings of Osaka Castle have a calm atmosphere but also offer a variety of dining options.
When visiting the Osaka Castle Area, it’s convenient to get off at JR Osaka-Jo Park Station or Tanimachi 4-chome Station on the Subway Tanimachi Line. The Tanimachi area, located to the west of Osaka Castle, offers many hotels at reasonable prices, making it a suitable accommodation option for those looking to save on travel costs in Osaka.
Osaka Castle’s Opening Hours and Ticket Prices | Must-See Spots for Visitors
1-6.Shin-Osaka Area
Shin-Osaka centers around Shin-Osaka Station, where the Shinkansen (bullet train) stops. Staying in the Shin-Osaka area allows for easy travel to Kyoto, Tokyo, Hiroshima, and other destinations after enjoying Osaka sightseeing. The ability to access it directly from Kansai International Airport without train transfers is a unique advantage of the Shin-Osaka area.
There are plenty of attractive dining options within walking distance of Shin-Osaka Station, including restaurants that serve okonomiyaki and udon. So, be sure to look for your favorite spot.
The Shin-Osaka area is filled with high-rise buildings, offering hotels with beautiful night views.For those looking for more affordable options, you’ll find that Shin-Osaka also offers accommodations to match your budget.
2.The Midosuji Subway Line Provides Easy Access to Each Area
If you’re unsure where to stay on your first trip to Osaka, consider choosing an area with a Midosuji Subway Line station. The Midosuji Line includes the following stations, making it convenient to visit Osaka’s main tourist attractions:
- Shin-Osaka
- Umeda
- Hommachi
- Namba
- Shinsaibashi
- Tennoji
When exploring Osaka via the Midosuji Subway Line, it’s beneficial to use the special ticket for tourists called the “OSAKA AMAZING PASS.” Purchasing a one-day pass of the OSAKA AMAZING PASS allows you unlimited rides for the day on nine subway lines, five private railways, and Osaka City buses, without any additional charges. With the OSAKA AMAZING PASS, you also get free admission to certain tourist facilities, so those looking to save on travel costs should definitely check it out.
出典：SURUTTO KANSAI “What is the Osaka Amazing Pass?”
Osaka Train and Station Guide: Insider Tips on Discount Tickets, Cards, and Riding Etiquette
From Tokyo to Osaka | How to Choose the Best Shinkansen and Other Modes of Transportation
4 Ways to Travel from Osaka to Fukuoka: A Guide to Fares and Travel Times!
How to Get from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Osaka City | 8 Modes of Transportation
3.Recommended Places to Stay in Osaka by Area
If you’re visiting Osaka for the first time, we recommend staying in the Kita, Minami, or Honmachi areas. Staying in any of these three areas will allow easy and smooth access to the main tourist spots in Osaka.
Below, we introduce some recommended hotels in the Kita area, Minami area, and Honmachi area.
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3-1.Recommended Hotels in the Kita Area
Kita is an area known for “Kitashinchi,” a nightlife district popular with the affluent, thus it boasts a range of top-class hotels. However, there are also affordable hotels in the Kita area, so those traveling to Osaka on a limited budget can rest assured.
Here are three recommended hotels in the Kita area:
・Conrad Osaka
Conrad Osaka is part of Hilton’s premier brand, “Conrad Hotels & Resorts.” The hotel embraces the concept of “Your address in the sky.” Staying at Conrad Osaka allows you to enjoy magnificent views from every room. Another advantage of staying here is that even the standard rooms are spacious, over 50 square meters in size.
・Imperial Hotel Osaka
Located along the Okawa River in the Kita area, the Imperial Hotel Osaka prides itself on its location surrounded by lush nature. The area around the hotel is filled with cherry trees, making it an especially beautiful and attractive spot to stay in Spring.. The rooms at the Imperial Hotel Osaka feature a traditional and serene atmosphere. The Imperial Floor rooms include the hotel’s own brand of bedding developed to ensure guests have a good night’s sleep.
・Toyoko INN Osaka Umeda Higashi
Toyoko INN Osaka Umeda Higashi is suitable for those looking for an affordable stay in the Kita area. The rooms are compact but sufficiently clean and comfortable for a pleasant stay. Basic amenities are provided, so you won’t face any inconvenience during your stay.
Toyoko INN Osaka Umeda Higashi offers a complimentary buffet breakfast. However, there are no restaurants available for use on the night of check-in. There are several dining establishments around the hotel where you can enjoy Osaka’s gourmet cuisine, so it is recommended to dine around the hotel area for dinner.
3-2.Recommended Hotels in the Minami Area
Minami is one of the most bustling areas in Osaka Prefecture, with numerous hotel options. Here are three of the most popular choices for accomodations in the Minami area:
・Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
Swissôtel Nankai Osaka is a five-star hotel located directly above Nankai Namba Station. It offers excellent access to JR and private railway stations, making it an ideal base for those who want to actively explore the area. The hotel premises include several dining establishments offering authentic Japanese cuisine, Cantonese cuisine, and European cuisine.
・Cross Hotel Osaka
Located just a three-minute walk from Namba Station on the Subway Midosuji Line, Cross Hotel Osaka is situated in the heart of Minami’s entertainment district, making it recommended for those who wish to enjoy Osaka’s nightlife. The rooms at Cross Hotel Osaka feature a stylish and modern design. Since there are no large buildings surrounding the hotel, all rooms are sufficiently bright and comfortable.
・Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu is a unique hotel built to also serve as the main gate for Namba Betsuin. The rooms at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu incorporate playful designs. Each room has a sufficiently large bed and a private bathroom, allowing you to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
While Swissôtel Nankai Osaka has a fitness gym and a pool, an additional fee is required for their use, separate from the room charge.It’s important to remember that, not just at Swissôtel Nankai Osaka but generally in Japanese accommodations, the use of fitness gyms and pools is not included in the room charges.
11 Best Things to do in Osaka’s Dotonbori | Recommended Experiences and Gourmet
3-3.Recommended Hotels in the Honmachi Area
The Honmachi area has many hotels where you can stay comfortably at reasonable rates. In addition, there are also five-star hotels with luxurious amenities in the Honmachi area, allowing you to find accommodation according to your preferences.
If you plan to stay in the Honmachi area, here are three hotels we think you’ll enjoy staying at.
・The St. Regis Osaka
The St. Regis Osaka is a top-class hotel with a history of receiving 5 Red Pavilions in the Michelin Guide’s hotel category. During your stay at The St. Regis Osaka, a dedicated butler will assist with arranging tourist spots and restaurant reservations. Another charm of The St. Regis Osaka is that all rooms are located above the 17th floor, offering a wonderful night view.
・Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama
Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama is situated just a one-minute walk from Kitahama Station on the Subway Sakaisuji Line. The hotel has a Japanese restaurant on its premises, offering healthy breakfast options. All rooms at Hotel Brighton City Osaka Kitahama are over 20 square meters, ensuring a comfortable stay. The bathrooms feature large rain showers, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
・Osaka View Hotel Honmachi
Osaka View Hotel Honmachi is an excellent choice for those who want to stay in rooms with a Japanese design. The rooms at Osaka View Hotel Honmachi are designed based on concepts and nature symbolizing Japan, such as “Zen,” “Awayuki (light snow),” and “Marigold.” The restaurant on the first floor of the hotel is open as a free lounge from 3 pm to 9 pm, where coffee and tea are complimentary.
In addition to the three hotels introduced above, the Honmachi area also offers apartment-type accommodations and guesthouses. For those looking to minimize costs while staying in Osaka, consider exploring accommodations other than hotels.
4.Must-See Spots and Must-Visit Places in Osaka
Osaka is filled with scenic views and must-visit tourist spots, which can make it challenging to create a travel plan for first-time visitors. If you’re visiting Osaka for the first time, including the following three spots in your itinerary will help you have a fulfilling experience.
4-1.Dotonbori
The local motto of Osaka is “Kuidaore,” which means to enjoy food to one’s heart’s content.Dotonbori is often referred to as the “city of Kuidaore” because it is packed with attractive gourmet spots where you can fully enjoy foods unique to Osaka.
One indispensable spot to visit in Dotonbori is the Ebisu Bridge. Here, you can take commemorative photos with the iconic Glico running man and the giant doll billboards, beloved symbols of Osaka’s landscape. Taking a picture in the same pose as the runner will make for an unforgettable memory.
The Dotonbori shopping street is bustling with visitors from various countries. Just experiencing the energetic atmosphere of the street is enjoyable and makes it a spot worth visiting.
4-2.Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle was built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who is also known as “Japan’s Napoleon.” The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times after major battles. The current Osaka Castle was reconstructed by Tokugawa Ieyasu after the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
From the observatory at the top of Osaka Castle, you can see nearly the entire city of Osaka, offering a spectacular view. Surrounding Osaka Castle is a vast park, where you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms from late March to early April.
For those who want to deepen their understanding of the history and culture of Osaka Castle, a guided tour organized by volunteer groups is available for booking. These tours, which can also include explanations in English, are a great way to learn about the highlights of Osaka Castle.
4-3. Universal Studios Japan
If you’re traveling to Osaka with children or if you’re a movie enthusiast, you should definitely visit Universal Studios Japan. Universal Studios Japan has ten areas, offering amusement park attractions and shows themed around Hollywood movies.
- Super Nintendo World
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Minion Park
- Universal Wonderland
- Hollywood Area
- New York Area
- San Francisco Area
- Jurassic Park
- Amity Village
- Waterworld
出典：Universal Studios Japan “Area Introduction”
Tickets for Universal Studios Japan can sell out, so it’s a good idea to reserve your tickets in advance when planning your visit.
Universal Studios Japan: Opening Hours, Access, and Ticket Information
5.Is Osaka Expensive?
Compared to Tokyo, the cost of living in Osaka is lower, making it a more accessible city for travelers on a budget, especially if you choose a reasonable hotel and book a standard-class room. However, be mindful that rooms in Japanese hotels can often be small relative to the cost. Additionally, accommodation rates typically rise during the cherry blossom season and Christmas season. If you’re looking to save on lodging costs, considering changing your travel dates could be necessary.
The absence of a tipping culture in Japan’s restaurants is an advantage for those traveling on a limited budget. Eating at street stalls or fast-food outlets can be a fun way to help save on food costs while still allowing you to enjoy Osaka’s cuisine.
The cost of transportation for a trip to Osaka depends on your choice of transport. You can save on transportation costs by opting for trains and buses over taxis whenever possible.
Conclusion
Osaka boasts a wealth of tourist attractions, including the Kita area, Minami area, as well as the Honmachi area and Tennoji area. The cost of your stay can vary significantly depending on which area you choose to book your accommodation in.
If you’re looking for a location that is easily accessible to tourist spots while also wanting to keep accommodation costs low, the Honmachi area is a great choice. If you want to enjoy the nightlife until late in the night, searching for hotels in the Kita or Minami areas would be a good choice. Choosing accommodations along the Midosuji Line is also advisable as it makes touring various areas of Osaka more convenient.
*This article was created based on information available as of April 2024.
