When I found out we were going to Universal Studios for Super Nintendo World, I was excited to choose our hotel in Osaka. I’ve had Hoshinoya Kyoto, a place where Japanese nobles used to vacation, on my bucket list for years. But since it was out of my budget (and not in Osaka), I wanted to visit one of Hoshino Resorts’ more affordable brands OMO and its new Osaka hotel.
OMO hotels by Hoshino Resorts often have a number in its name to represent the hotel-type or level of amenities. OMO1 are bare-boned capsule hotels, OMO3 are basic hotels with grab-and-go breakfast, OMO5 are boutique hotels with cafes and breakfast, and OMO7 are full-service hotels offering breakfast buffets, a cafe, restaurant, and more. Luckily for me, their new hotel in Osaka was an OMO7!
Why We Chose OMO7 Osaka
Recently opened in April 2022, the OMO7 Osaka Hotel had many enticing features beyond being new:
- It’s conveniently located right next to Shin-Imamiya Station and just a 5-minute walk from Shinsekai
- There’s a complimentary shuttle service to (what we came to Osaka for!) Universal Studios
- This Osaka hotel has an on-site bathhouse
- A nightly fireworks light show is projected onto the building’s exterior
Traveling as a group of five, we debated between the IDOBATA Suite (which sleeps 6) and booking two separate rooms. Ultimately, we prioritized having two bathrooms and opted for the Deluxe Room and Corner Twin Room.
The Best Osaka Hotel Experience
Arriving at OMO7 hotel in Osaka, I was blown away by how beautifully designed it was – their architecture has won awards! Check-in was easy and there was a large selection of amenities to bring to your room, including cute loungewear (yakutas) to borrow during your stay. We had a fun time taking pictures in our yakutas around the hotel.
I slept in the Corner Twin Room and we had a great view of the city, despite it being slightly obstructed by some paneling. I appreciated the thoughtful design of the room, which had separate toilet, bath, and sink areas. They strategically hung a curtain that could be pulled to section off the room and make it easier to change outside of the wet room after showering.
Why OMO7 is my Favourite Hotel in Osaka
My hands-down favourite thing about OMO7 Osaka was how they made enjoying the outdoors so easy. There is a beautiful 7,600 square meter garden attached to the hotel with uniquely designed seating areas. When we visited this hotel in May of 2023, there were even art installations within the garden.
PIKAPIKA Night was a pleasant surprise for us and we loved it. They served fresh takoyakis and craft beer with music supplied by a local record store. Children could play with lanterns, and they even projected a light show onto the hotel building. We spent so much of our downtime outside of our rooms in the garden just chatting, enjoying the view, and taking pictures.
Making the Most Out of Your Stay at this Hotel in Osaka
With so many amenities, here’s my advice to make the most out of your stay at the OMO7 Osaka hotel. If you’re headed to Universal Studios, definitely make a reservation for the free shuttle to and from the amusement park. They also have daily OMO Ranger Programs to give guests advice on their Universal Studios visit.
This hotel in Osaka also has guided tours. We didn’t have time for one, but next time I want to experience the free Discover Dashi Tour. If your check-out time doesn’t coincide with when you’re leaving Osaka, make use of the complimentary lockers to store your luggage till it’s time to go.
Still not convinced that OMO7 Osaka is the best hotel in Osaka? Or did you already experience it for yourself? Let me know in the comments below. Check out our Osaka city guide here to find out what to do and eat in this city!
–
3 Chome-16-30 Ebisunishi
Naniwa Ward, Osaka
556-0003
–
Stone & Fern is a travel and lifestyle blog started by friends who have a passion for exploring cities, capturing moments, and trying new food. To see more of Asia, click here.
Wow this is amazing – best blog in the world. I rely on you heavily when I travel the world.