Osaka Airport Guide: Arrivals, Departures, and Transport

By James Taylor
August 4, 2026

The first time I stepped foot in Osaka I was blown away by the food, culture, and history. Japan's best eating city is an easy place to fall for, and it goes smoother if you sort out one thing before you fly: which Osaka airport you're actually landing at. This Osaka Airport Guide covers both airports: Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM).
Hotels in Osaka
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Osaka’s Airports: Kansai International and Itami Domestic
If you're flying to Osaka direct from Australia, it’s a safe bet to say you're landing at Kansai International Airport. Every direct route from Australia goes there along with every other international flight into the region.
Osaka Itami Airport is the city’s primary domestic airport. Funny thing though: it actually used to be called Osaka International Airport in English. As you can imagine, a lot of tourists were caught off guard, ending up at the wrong airport. The confusion got bad enough that the operator dropped that name in 2025 and rebranded it Osaka Itami Airport.
Airport | Code | Flights | Into central Osaka | Best for |
Kansai International | KIX | International and domestic | 35 to 50 min by limited express train | Everyone arriving from overseas |
Osaka Itami | ITM | Domestic only | 25 to 30 min by bus | Connections within Japan |

Photo provided by Kansai International Airport.
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Osaka Airport Terminals
Here’s a breakdown of the terminals at both Kansai International Airport and Itami Domestic Airport.
Kansai International Airport Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the Renzo Piano building that handles nearly everything at KIX, and at 1.7 kilometres it's the longest airport terminal in the world. Take that as a fun fact and as a warning, as the walk to your gate could turn into a bit of a hike, so this is one airport where you shouldn’t be cutting it fine.
The terminal has just come out of a four-year renovation (completed in June 2026), so everything is brand new. International departures area is now about 60% bigger than it was before, security screening has the latest tech and consolidated into an expanded checkpoint that handles about 6,000 passengers an hour, and you’ll have the joy of shopping at Japan’s largest walk-through duty-free store.
Kansai International Airport Terminal 2
Terminal 2 was Japan's first purpose-built low-cost carrier terminal, and its domestic side reopened on 1 April 2026 after a renovation that brought in self-service bag drop, three 20-metre smart security lanes, a bigger boarding lounge and a four-outlet food court.
Only three airlines use it: Peach, Jeju Air and Spring Airlines. Every other carrier at Kansai is in Terminal 1.
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Osaka Itami Airport Terminal
Itami Domestic Airport has just one long terminal, but divided into three sections: North Terminal, Central Terminal, and South Terminal. Japan Airlines and its regional partners use the North, ANA and IBEX use the South, and the Central section holds most of the shops, restaurants and the observation deck.
Getting Between Terminals in Osaka
Kansai Terminal 1 to Terminal 2: To transfer between terminals at Kansai International Airport, there’s a free shuttle bus every 7 to 9 minutes. Note that you can’t walk between these terminals, as they’re 4 kilometres apart and treated as separate entities for immigration, which also means there’s no airside transfers between them.
Kansai to Itami: If you’re flying into Kansai and then have a domestic flight from Itami, there’s one public option: the limousine bus. It takes about 70 to 80 minutes of driving through Osaka. There’s no train link, and taxis are expensive. The bus costs ¥1,950 (around A$17.50) for an adult.

⭐ Check out some of the Best Things to See and Do in Osaka below, with discounts for booking through Trip.com!

Osaka Castle Park
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The castle is must a visit. Purchasing tickets from Trip ahead made the visit very convenient. We don't need to queue and we entered the castle immediately.

Universal Studios Japan
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This place is definitely worth recommending! It feels like you're entering a world of childhood, happiness, and fun. It's wonderful to spend the whole day here. As a big Harry Potter fan, I especially loved the Harry Potter area—the park's incredible detail!

Tsutenkaku
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What a cool observation deck! You can see the city from there really well. You can even climb to the very top, where there's no glass.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
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A beautiful aquarium with a 20-minute behind-the-scenes experience observing the main tank from above. Whale sharks swim peacefully among manta rays and tiger sharks.

How to Get from Osaka Airport to the City
Japanese public transport is among the best in the world, but it can be confusing when it comes to working out who to ride with and how much it’ll cost. Here’s a breakdown of getting from both Kansai and Itami into Osaka city.
Note that all prices are accurate at time of writing in July 2026, as are the conversions to AUD.
How to Get from Kansai Airport to Osaka
Transport Method | Price | Pros & Cons | |
Nankai Electric Railway | ¥1,670 (approx. A$14.65) ¥1,410 (approx. A$12.35) with the digital ticket | Fastest option to Namba at 34 minutes. All seats reserved, with proper luggage storage. Runs about every 30 minutes. | |
Airport Express | ¥970 (approx. A$8.50) | Cheapest way into Namba, and it runs every 15 minutes. Takes 45 minutes and seats aren't reserved, so you may stand at busy times. | |
JR West | ¥1,710 to Tennoji (approx. A$15.00) ¥2,330 to Shin-Osaka (approx. A$20.45) ¥2,850 to Kyoto (approx. A$25.00) | Direct to Umeda, Shin-Osaka and Kyoto with no changes, and covered by the Japan Rail Pass. Roughly double the Kansai Airport Rapid for the same JR route into Osaka. | |
Kansai Airport Rapid | ¥1,060 to Tennoji (approx. A$9.30) ¥1,190 to Osaka Station (approx. A$10.45) | Great value and also covered by the JR Rail Pass. Slower at 65 to 70 minutes to Osaka Station. | |
Prices start from ¥1,800 to Umeda (approx. A$15.80) Varies by route | No stairs, no changes, and the driver loads your bags. Routes cover Umeda, Namba (OCAT) and Universal Studios Japan. | ||
Taxi | From around ¥18,000 (approx. A$158) | Available at any hour, which matters if you land after the trains stop. Costs more than a night in a decent hotel. | |
From around A$25 per day. | Worth it for Nara, Himeji or the Kii peninsula. You need a International Driving Permit, arranged before you fly. Parking in Osaka is expensive. |
How to Get from Osaka Itami Airport to the City
Itami is much closer in, so the options are simpler and cheaper.
Getting Around | Price | Pros & Cons |
Limousine Bus | About ¥730 (A$6.40) | Direct to Umeda in 25 to 30 minutes, and it also runs to Namba (OCAT) and Shin-Osaka. Easiest option with luggage. Traffic dependent. |
Osaka Monorail + Hankyu | About ¥440 (approx. A$3.85) | Cheapest route. One monorail stop to Hotarugaike, then the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Osaka-Umeda, around 20 minutes. One transfer, which is a nuisance with bags. |
Taxi | Around ¥3,000 to ¥4,500 (approx. A$26 to A$40) | Genuinely affordable by Japanese airport standards, and a world away from the Kansai fare. Still the priciest of the three. |

Osaka Airport Parking and Car Rental Pickups
Most Aussies reading this won’t be parking at Kansai, but if you're being dropped off or picking up a hire car, the layout is worth a glance. The map is below.
If you're hiring a car in Japan, it's pretty straightforward. Here's what you'll be asked for at the desk:
- Your original Australian licence.
- Your International Driver's Permit, valid one year from the date it was issued.
- Your passport. Police may also want it to check how long you've been in the country.
- A credit card in the driver's name.

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Osaka Airport Arrivals & Departures
Departures
Kansai (KIX) Terminal 1:
- Check-in: international on 4F, domestic on 2F. Jetstar Japan is here, not Terminal 2.
- Security: 4F, clears around 6,000 passengers an hour.
- Timing: There’s 1.7 km of terminal here, so allow for the walk to your gate.
Kansai (KIX) Terminal 2:
- Check-in: Peach, Jeju Air and Spring Airlines only. Self-service bag drop and three 20-metre smart security lanes.
- Timing: no railway station here, so you’ll need to add the shuttle ride from Terminal 1 to your arrival calculations (it takes about 7 minutes, plus waiting for it to arrive).
Osaka Itami (ITM):
- Check-in: North Terminal for JAL, South for ANA and IBEX.
- Timing: North and South close at 10pm, Central at 11:30pm
Arrivals

Arrivals at Kansai International Airport in Osaka. Image provided by Kansai International Airport.
Kansai (KIX):
- Before you land: Register on Visit Japan Web for QR codes covering the arrival card and customs declaration. KIX uses a joint Kiosk that reads your passport and QR code in one step and clears immigration and customs together.
- International: Immigration (Joint Kiosk or standard counters), baggage claim, customs, then out to the ground-floor arrivals hall.
- Domestic: Straight to baggage claim, no immigration.
Osaka Itami (ITM):
- Domestic only, so no immigration or customs. North Terminal for JAL, South for ANA and IBEX. Central for shops and the monorail station.
Duty Free at Osaka Airport
Since the completed renovations, Duty free at Kansai Airport is now the largest walk-through duty-free store in Japan. You’ll find it after passport control in the international departures area. Expect the classic luxury brands, including a few that are making their first appearance at any Japanese airport, and a good selection of Kansai specialities for any last-minute souvenirs.

Image provided by Kansai International Airport
Hotels In Osaka
The Best Hotels in Osaka
5 star
9.2/10Great1500 Reviews
Nakanoshima Osaka|1.42km from downtown
My stay during this trip was great. The hotel's location is excellent, just a short walk to the station, making it very convenient for sightseeing. The room was spotlessly clean, and the facilities were well-maintained. The soundproofing was good, so it was quiet at night, allowing for a good rest. The staff were polite and patient, and communication was smooth. Overall, it offers good value for money, and it's definitely worth staying here when visiting the area.FromNZD 210
9.3/10Great1955 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.76km from downtown
Before booking, I compared countless hotels and read some mixed and negative reviews about the Royal, so I was honestly a bit hesitant. But after much thought, I realized that having three breakfasts included would be incredibly convenient, so I decided to give it a try. And the result? It truly exceeded my expectations! First off, the room was very clean, with none of the hygiene issues mentioned in some reviews. Plus, the room was cleaned daily. The breakfast was also excellent—Western style, with meat, vegetables, fruits, various fresh juices, and coffee ☕️, all readily available. We also made use of the self-service laundry 👚 every day, which was incredibly convenient and saved us a lot of hassle. As for transportation, it's closer to Yodoyabashi (than Honmachi), about a 5-minute walk, making it easy to get anywhere. All in all, it was a very, very, very satisfying travel experience ☺️FromNZD 245
9/10Great2787 Reviews
Uehommachi/Tennoji/Southern Osaka Osaka|3.56km from downtown
This hotel is well-located, very close to Namba subway station, making it convenient to get to any tourist spot in Osaka. There's also a FamilyMart nearby for any necessities. Whether you're ordering takeout or calling a taxi, it's all very convenient.FromNZD 195
9.2/10Great1734 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|3.29km from downtown
It's located in Namba which is one of the busiest and exciting neighborhoods in Osaka. Direct train to KIX in the same building is the biggest plus. Dotonbori is only 10 min walk away. We had an amazing sushi dinner a few mins from the hotel. You never get hungry staying there. Front desk staff speak very good English. If you opt out of breakfast, the cafe on 3rd floor facing express train station is an excellent choice for coffee and pastries. A few min walk there an excellent brunch cafe that opens at 8 am. If you arrive by train from Kyoto/Nara, it's a little past to n navigate to the hotel. Just get to the 3rd floor first around Takashimaya. Signage is mucus easier from there.
Rooms are spacious. We picked the renovated room Swiss Select. It's absolutely worth paying a little bit more. I'll definitely stay there again should I be visiting Osaka in the future.FromNZD 392
9.3/10Great4895 Reviews
America Mura Osaka|2.22km from downtown
First, about the location: it is exceptionally convenient, right in the heart of the Shinsaibashi commercial district. All major department stores are just a stone's throw away, and Namba is about a 15-minute walk. Even the Superior Twin Room felt quite small to me. While it's advertised as 24 to 27 square meters, it realistically feels more like 20. The service aspect is quite interesting: the housekeeping staff are of Indian descent, the bell staff in the lobby are from Myanmar and Vietnam, and the front desk agents are locals. We didn't request full room cleaning during our stay, just daily replenishment of amenities. The absolute highlight is the hotel's breakfast. We stayed for 6 days and 5 nights, and tried both the Western restaurant on the 2nd floor and the Japanese restaurant on the 3rd floor. At first glance, the selection doesn't look huge, but everything is of very high quality. The service in the restaurants is also excellent, and the desserts, in particular, are well worth savoring. Perhaps the delicious pastries alone will bring us back for another stay next time.FromNZD 234
Business travel
9.3/10Great1664 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.37km from downtown
This hotel is conveniently located near both Yodoyabashi and Kitahama subway stations, surrounded by office buildings. The triple room we booked offered excellent value for money. The room was much larger than typical Tokyo hotels. On the first floor, you can self-service amenities like toothbrushes, toiletries, and tea bags, and the coffee machine is free to use during the day. Overall, it's a great place!FromNZD 82
8.9/10Very Good1250 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.6km from downtown
The front desk has Chinese-speaking staff, and the facilities also have Chinese translations. There's a microwave next to the elevator on the first floor. I booked a random room type and got a twin room. Since I was traveling alone with only one suitcase, it was actually quite spacious. My open 28-inch suitcase fit perfectly at the foot of the bed near the window, though I had to step over it as there was no floor space left. It might not be very convenient for two people, but I'm very satisfied with getting a room like this for the price.FromNZD 49
9.2/10Great542 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.09km from downtown
My stay here was excellent. The room was clean and tidy, and the housekeeping was impeccable throughout my four-night stay. The hotel's location is super convenient, close to the subway, Shinsaibashi, Namba, and other popular spots, saving a lot of travel time. The room amenities were complete, and the Japanese-style decor created a lovely atmosphere. I also enjoyed the city night views from my room. Overall, the service was good, and the staff were friendly, though there's a little room for improvement in some minor details. All in all, it offers great value for money. I would definitely consider staying here again on my next visit to Osaka and would recommend it to my friends.FromNZD 132
9.1/10Great1415 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.52km from downtown
The location is super convenient for shopping around Umeda, which saved me a lot of time. The hotel's large public bath is great for unwinding after a long day of travel, though I wish the operating hours were longer. It gets really crowded, especially since they stop letting people in after 11:30 PM. It would be much more flexible if they could extend it by an hour. Oh, and there's an amazing BBQ restaurant, Market Kitchen, on B1 of Umeda Lucua 1000 where you can pick your own meat to grill – such a good deal! I was really happy staying in this area. All in all, I highly recommend this hotel.FromNZD 153
9.1/10Great4065 Reviews
Umeda Osaka|1.03km from downtown
Staying at Hotel Granvia Osaka was such a pleasant experience! The location is unbeatable — right in the heart of Osaka, with shopping, restaurants and eateries all around, making it incredibly convenient to explore the city.
What I loved most is how central it is for travelling beyond Osaka too. With Osaka Station right there, it’s so easy to head out to places like Kyoto, Kobe and Kurashiki without wasting time getting across the city.
A special shout-out to Don at the hotel, whose service was truly top-notch. He spoke excellent English, was incredibly accommodating and made me feel very well taken care of. The hotel even upgraded my room for free, which was such a lovely surprise!
And for Pokémon fans — this is a bonus I absolutely loved! 😍 The Pokémon Center is just on the 13th floor, so you can literally pop down whenever you feel like browsing or shopping.
Overall, a fantastic base for an Osaka trip — excellent location, wonderful service, comfortable stay and plenty of shopping and dining right at your doorstep. Would definitely stay here again!FromNZD 182
Family friendly
9.3/10Great1866 Reviews
America Mura Osaka|2.25km from downtown
We had an amazing stay at the Bridge. Staff was super helpful, the room was relatively big for Japanese standards and you are in walking distance of some of the most exciting places in Osaka. The smoking area in front of the hotel was one of the few comfortable places I was confident smoking was allowed.FromNZD 149
9.2/10Great3946 Reviews
Umeda Osaka|1.34km from downtown
The room's main selling point is its convenient location; you can easily drop off your shopping and take a quick break. Overall cleanliness is decent, though some neglected corners and details do exist. Traffic noise from outside the 34th floor is audible, so light sleepers might want to look elsewhere. The air conditioning unit blowing directly onto the bed isn't very well-designed, though fortunately you don't really need it in this season. As for the lack of bottled water—having to use the public water station to refill your own—I personally found that totally fine!FromNZD 238
9.2/10Great987 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.54km from downtown
## Facilities:
The hotel offers a good range of amenities. The room has a TV with screen mirroring capabilities, a mini-fridge, and bright lighting. There's also a safe near the entrance. However, bottled water isn't provided; you need to use your own bottle to refill. On the second floor, by the front desk, there are many self-service items available, such as hair ties, combs, and small packets of skincare products.
## Housekeeping:
The room was cleaned daily, with the bed made and hair tidied up.
## Location & Environment:
The hotel is very close to Exit 3 of Kitahama Subway Station, and Doyabashi Subway Station is about a 10-minute walk away, making it convenient to get to Umeda, Universal Studios, and Shinsaibashi. There's also a FamilyMart convenience store right outside, where you can find pretty much any drinks and snacks you might want. The area is quiet at night, and the room's soundproofing is quite good.
## Service:
Upon check-in, we had to pay the accommodation tax, and the staff gave us two tokens that could be exchanged for drinks on the second floor. Since we don't drink alcohol, we chose two juices, which tasted a bit tart. Both check-in and check-out were done via machines, which was quite convenient.FromNZD 98
9.1/10Great908 Reviews
Dotonbori Osaka|2.67km from downtown
This hotel is located near a famous shopping district, which makes shopping super convenient. It's right next to the Glico Running Man sign, and there are also some expensive Kobe beef restaurants nearby. There are tons of restaurants and drugstores, so you're sure to find whatever you're looking for. The hotel itself is well-equipped, and the bathroom design is very thoughtful. I was really satisfied with my stay. Both check-in and check-out were smooth. It's definitely a hotel with great value for money.FromNZD 285
9.5/10Amazing1698 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|3.53km from downtown
This hotel is right near the Namba subway station. It's huge, luxurious, and very new. The rooms are incredibly spacious with two large beds, a sofa, coffee table, desk, microwave, and refrigerator – everything you could need! On the 6th floor, there's also a shared dining area with a free coffee machine, fridge, and ice maker. The hotel is surrounded by tons of great, affordable restaurants and is perfectly located between Tsutenkaku and Shinsaibashi! After visiting Tsutenkaku, you can walk straight back to the hotel, rest up, and then it's just a few hundred meters walk to Shinsaibashi! Big Camera, Don Quijote, and Sushiro are all very close by. There are countless drugstores, as well as PlayStation and Nintendo stores! This will definitely be my top choice for my next stay in Osaka!FromNZD 255
Hot spring
9.4/10Amazing2750 Reviews
Osaka Bay Osaka|6.55km from downtown
This trip was specifically for Universal Studios, and I had already picked out this hotel on a previous visit. It's right next to the main entrance of Universal Studios, which is great because after a long day of playing, you don't want to walk far or take the subway. It offers good value for money; the price isn't high, and the room size is ample for three of us. The breakfast is more Japanese-style, but across from the hotel entrance, in CITY WALK, there's a udon restaurant. Their fried sweet potato 🍠 is delicious – I make sure to visit it every time I come!FromNZD 160
9.5/10Amazing1532 Reviews
Osaka Bay Osaka|7.3km from downtown
Cannot speak highly enough of this hotel. Great location down to Universal Studios, only about 15 minutes walk. Quiet because of the distance.
The staff were incredibly helpful, I checked some luggage for storage before check in and when I returned found they'd already taken it to my room for me and even hung up the jacket I left. There was a great deal of care taken.
Even my booking request for a quiet room away from the lifts was noted and actioned and the rooms had every little thing you might need or have forgotten available.
My only complaint is that I couldn't include more nights there in my trip.
It was perfect.FromNZD 147
9/10Great897 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|2.56km from downtown
The hotel is super close to Dotonbori, making it lively and great for evening strolls and food. There are several subway stations nearby, like Nihonbashi and Nagahoribashi. Namba is about a ten-minute walk away, perfect for picking up things like hairdryers, thermoses, and blood pressure monitors. On our last day, we took the airport bus (1800 JPY), but you can only buy same-day tickets. The bus stop is less than a five-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel offers free hot spring baths daily from 3 PM until 10 AM the next morning, along with complimentary cold drinks, tea, and ramen after 9:30 PM.FromNZD 127
9/10Great536 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.31km from downtown
Loved our stay at City Plaza Osaka! We used Osaka as a base for our trip, going on multiple short day-trips followed by a longer stay in Tokyo, with one final night in Osaka before heading home. First room was clean and cozy, second room was HUGE and perfect for repacking our checked bag. Both rooms were comfortable and clean with excellent water pressure in the shower. Plenty of nice cafes and restaurants nearby, so didn’t try the hotel breakfast, but highly recommend Osaka Engine (has gluten free ramen options!) for a delicious meal! The FamilyMart downstairs was very convenient, the hotel staff were friendly and helpful, and the onsen was the cherry on top. The hotel location was great, easy walking distance to various metro stations and sights like Osaka Castle. 10/10 would stay again!FromNZD 124
9/10Great483 Reviews
Osaka Castle/Kyobashi/Eastern Osaka Osaka|2.78km from downtown
The breakfast exceeded my expectations; they had my favorite wagyu beef, ice cream, a variety of drinks, fruits, and even snacks that could double as souvenirs. However, the room felt a bit cramped and dated. For instance, there was only one chair and a small table, making it difficult to eat takeout. The TV wasn't mounted on the wall, which made the space feel even narrower. If there was a long sofa by the window, it would prevent guests from having to sit on the bed immediately upon entering the room.
During checkout, I realized I had been misled by the hotel package. I thought I needed to purchase a specific bathing package for the hot springs, and that this package didn't include breakfast, requiring me to pay extra for it. In reality, all guests could use the hot springs for free. It took about 2.5 hours on the day of checkout to sort things out with the platform and get a refund for the overpayment.
There's a chapel inside the hotel, which would be perfect for newlyweds to hold a reception.FromNZD 106
Gym
8.9/10Very Good1929 Reviews
America Mura Osaka|2.6km from downtown
Prime location. Eateries and shopping near hotel. Hotel room lighting is dimmed in comparison to other hotel. The lift and walkway is dimmed. There's no closet in the room however few hangers were provided. The sink is in the room and not in the bathroom.There's a washing machine which has a loud chime, which might disturb your sleep if it was used at night. Check in was fast however I was not informed on the welcome drinks and free amenities during checked in. So it was missed out. There was a picture frame hung on top of one of the bed which i felt that it was inappropriate, and posed as a safety hazard to the one sleeping underneath the picture frame.
Another consideration for friends sharing twin room as there was no privacy due to shower area has no hook or shelf to place clothing. So basically have to change out in the room or in the toilet. Room size is good for big luggages for a twin sharing room.
Overall, still a good option as the location is fantastic! Clean and quiet rooms too.FromNZD 367
9/10Great878 Reviews
Umeda Osaka|0.89km from downtown
The hotel is very close to Umeda, so much so that I could still squeeze in some sightseeing in the morning before my afternoon flight. The location gets a big thumbs up! 👍🏾👍🏾
Even a standard room offers beautiful city views. 👍🏾👍🏾
However, aside from two bottles of mineral water, no other complimentary drinks were provided. 😶FromNZD 350
9.2/10Great2152 Reviews
Osaka Bay Osaka|6.59km from downtown
I had a bit of trouble during check-in. Since I was with a friend at the time, and we weren't sure how many nights we'd be staying, we made separate bookings. However, because I booked two different room types, they wanted me to move rooms the next day. I even offered to downgrade, but that wasn't an option. So, make sure to double-check your bookings. In the end, the only solution was an upgrade, which I had to pay extra for. The hotel is close to Universal Studios, and even after the upgrade, the room wasn't particularly spacious. There are many other hotels in the area to choose from, all of which are quite convenient.FromNZD 290
9.4/10Amazing2098 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.49km from downtown
This stay was excellent! The hotel has a great location with convenient transportation and plenty of dining and shopping options nearby. The room was spotless, the bedding was comfortable, and the facilities were well-maintained. The staff were polite and efficient; check-in and check-out were a breeze. Overall, it was quiet and peaceful, which really helped relieve my travel fatigue. It was a very pleasant stay, and I'll definitely consider it first for my next visit.FromNZD 177
9.4/10Amazing2044 Reviews
Uehommachi/Tennoji/Southern Osaka Osaka|5.42km from downtown
We were a family of three staying here, and it was a fantastic experience. The room was clean and not cramped at all. It was also tidied up daily. Both the daytime and nighttime views were excellent! There were no strange odors in the room.
All the hotel staff were very friendly; they'd greet us proactively and were quick to help whenever we had any issues.
The location is superb. It avoids the crowds of Shinsaibashi and Umeda, yet getting anywhere is incredibly convenient. It's about 15 minutes to Shinsaibashi and Umeda, and around 30+ minutes to Universal Studios Japan or the Osaka Aquarium. It's also very easy to get to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
The elevator provides direct access to the Kintetsu department store, making dining and shopping very convenient. Across the street, there are also MIO and Q's shopping centers. Shopping is incredibly easy, and it's not overly crowded.
Highly recommended! Our whole family was very satisfied. We checked out on the 14th for two nights in Kyoto, and after returning on the 16th, we decided to continue our stay at the Osaka Marriott.FromNZD 444
Swimming pool
9.5/10Amazing1558 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.78km from downtown
Here's my review of the Imperial Hotel Osaka, where my family and I stayed during our recent vacation:
**🏠 Spacious Rooms:** Compared to other hotels in the same price range in Japan, the rooms here are noticeably more spacious. This is especially comfortable for families or those traveling with elderly parents. You can easily open your luggage without blocking the pathway, and multiple people can be in the room without feeling cramped. For family travel, this is often more practical than many newer, trendier hotels.
**🎩 Showa-Era Elegance:** The hotel exudes the charm of a classic, upscale establishment. From the high-ceilinged lobby and wooden decor to the warm lighting and large floral arrangements, it has a distinct 'old money' feel reminiscent of the Showa era. Many new hotels nowadays aim for minimalist or influencer-friendly aesthetics, but the Imperial Hotel Osaka has maintained its unique and recognizable 'Showa elegance'. Even casual photos in the lobby at night turn out beautifully.
**🛁 Surprisingly Great Bathroom:** The bathroom was an unexpected bonus! The bathtub is generously sized, and the water pressure is excellent. What's more, both the room and bathroom have the option to play classical music. After walking 10,000-20,000 steps during the day, a relaxing bath here is pure bliss. Listening to classical music while bathing, combined with the hotel's old-world ambiance, strangely creates a strong sense of ritual. This small detail actually became one of my most memorable aspects of the hotel.
**💁 Professional Service:** The staff are generally well-trained, polite, and discreet. You can tell they come from a long tradition of five-star hospitality. From the front desk to the concierge, everyone was professional and friendly. Although we didn't encounter any Chinese-speaking staff, English communication was generally smooth.
**🚌 Free Shuttle to Osaka Station:** The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle bus to and from Osaka Station, running approximately every 20 minutes from 10 AM to 10 PM during our stay. This significantly compensates for the hotel's slightly distant location from the train station. While the nearest JR Sakuranomiya Station still requires crossing a bridge and a bit of a walk, which might be inconvenient if you have heavy luggage or prioritize direct access to a station, the shuttle largely mitigates the public transport issue. It covers most normal travel times from morning to night, but I'd recommend checking the latest timetable on the day of your check-in.
**Location:** The hotel isn't in Osaka's busiest area, offering a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle, which is perfect for a good rest. There's a convenience store nearby and a small shopping arcade connected to the hotel, though dining options are not extensive.
**Overall Impression:** I believe the Imperial Hotel Osaka is particularly well-suited for family trips, traveling with parents, or anyone who prioritizes room spaciousness, quietness, and quality service over being directly above a bustling commercial district.FromNZD 232
9.3/10Great620 Reviews
Umeda Osaka|1.66km from downtown
Extremely satisfied! The hotel's location is superb, within walking distance to Osaka Station, and there's a 7-Eleven downstairs, making travel very convenient. It's also right next to the Umeda Sky Building. The room was spacious and clean, and I slept very comfortably. The breakfast selection was incredibly rich, with plenty of Japanese and Western options, and the food was delicious. The staff were polite and attentive. It's a quiet oasis in a bustling area. I love this hotel and highly recommend it!FromNZD 430
9.3/10Great386 Reviews
Umeda Osaka|1.02km from downtown
Facilities: The classic quality of a long-standing luxury brand.
Hygiene: Impeccable, as expected in Japan.
Environment: Right above the railway station.
Service: First-class service quality! Surrounded by amazing food options! An indispensable choice when in Umeda! However, it's a bit pricey and the rooms are a bit small.FromNZD 761
9.3/10Great699 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|1.78km from downtown
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve stayed here. This might just be my favorite hotel in the world.
It’s true, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But once you pass through the entrance tunnel, you’re transported to another world, even though you’re still in Osaka.
This time, I was on a blue floor. Despite the heat outside, it felt like the temperature dropped by 5°C. The elevator was neon pink. I was greeted with a warm “Welcome back.” And I replied, “I’m home.”
I was on the top floor, the 27th, on the Midosuji side, my favorite pink floor. Odd-numbered floors are pink, even-numbered are blue.
Soon after, Jack brought my luggage. As always, he pulled my stopper from his breast pocket. Thank you.
“Midosuji is all mine!” I declared, and then it was bath time.
I headed to WET on the 4th floor. I read a book by the poolside, then soaked in the jacuzzi, repeating the cycle. Later, I had a French 75 at LIVING ROOM, served by Mr. Yajima.
The Mexican dish I often order had been slightly revamped and was even more delicious.
Back in my room, it was bath time again. Oh? Extra towels, bath salts, skincare, and a chair! Ah, I remember mentioning it last time. The chair wasn't quite what I had in mind, though.
After that, I fell into a deep sleep, so no turndown service this time. Oh! Their laundry service is excellent here. I always have my high-end brand T-shirts cleaned here. It costs almost 10,000 yen locally, which is a bit much. They even managed to remove a stain from a skirt that H Nagoya couldn't get out.
It’s not cheap, there’s no lounge, and no gym. But I absolutely love it. Thank you always, see you again.FromNZD 765
9.2/10Great319 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.72km from downtown
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Stay – Best Value, Hot Springs, and Free Food in Osaka!I had an amazing stay at Dormy Inn Premium in Osaka. The location is excellent, making it incredibly easy to access public transit, shopping districts, and local restaurants.What I loved:The Onsen (Hot Spring): The indoor and outdoor public baths are top-tier. It is the perfect way to unwind after walking 20,000 steps around Osaka. The saunas and cold plunges are a huge bonus.Free Perks: The signature free Yonaki Soba (soy sauce ramen) served every night is delicious. They also provide free ice cream after your bath in the evening and Yakult drinks in the morning.The Breakfast: Do not skip the buffet! The spread is incredible, featuring fresh local specialties, seafood, and western options.Rooms: While typical Japanese hotel rooms can be small, the ”Premium” lineup feels modern, functional, and spotlessly clean.Minor things to note:The elevators and bath areas can get quite busy during peak check-in and breakfast hours, but the staff manages it very well.I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Osaka. The amenities make it feel like a luxury ryokan experience at a reasonable price. I will definitely stay here again!FromNZD 151
Breakfast
9/10Great1467 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|2.48km from downtown
The hotel is a 10-minute walk from the subway station and consists of two buildings: the main building and an annex. The rooms aren't huge, but they're a good size for hotels in the same price range. They offer 24-hour hot water, coffee, drinks, and a microwave for heating food, which is great. Free luggage storage is also available. There's a Chinese-speaking staff member at the front desk, so communication was seamless. Breakfast was decent too. The only downside, if I had to pick one, was the constant stream of tour groups. It's also just a 5-minute walk from the main shopping street in Shinsaibashi.FromNZD 90
9.2/10Great513 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.49km from downtown
The hotel's exterior has a lot of style, and the public facilities are good, with a very clean bathhouse.
However, the hotel room is too small; we could barely open two suitcases. There was no space to even eat instant noodles! 😭
The hotel isn't in a tourist area, but there are some local shops nearby that are worth exploring. I highly recommend a breakfast place called Rivori nearby; their bread is delicious.
The hotel is relatively close to ”Yodoyabashi” station, but the exits there are quite confusing. For two days, we never managed to use the same exit to get back to the hotel. It's about a 10-minute walk from the subway station.FromNZD 163
8.3/10Very Good1452 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|4.88km from downtown
Upon check-in, I was only given a wooden tag, no key or room card. The capsule bed rooms have magnetic folding doors, which provide privacy but might make you feel less secure about your valuables. The fourth floor is women-only and has both showers and toilets. Washing machines are located on the 2nd and 10th floors, costing 300 yen to wash and 100 yen to dry. I was a bit disappointed because the pictures in the description showed a public bath, but upon arrival, I found out there was only a male bath, no female bath. The free self-service luggage storage is very convenient!FromNZD 23
9.4/10Amazing1014 Reviews
Osaka Station/Umeda/Yodoyabashi/Hommachi Osaka|0.57km from downtown
1. **Location**
This was my second visit to Osaka. Although it's part of the Umeda area, it's conveniently located midway between Namba and Umeda. It's situated between Nishi-Umeda Station and Higobashi Station on the Yotsubashi Line, and also close to Yodoyabashi Station on the Midosuji Line, making transportation very convenient. What's even more appealing is the Dojima underground shopping street right in front of the hotel, allowing direct underground access to Osaka Station, which was a huge plus for easy travel.
2. **Hotel Facilities**
According to the Palace Hotel Group, which developed the hotel brand, the name 'Zentis' is a combination of words and a naming concept derived from:
- **Zen (禅)**: The Eastern philosophical concept of 'Zen' representing peace of mind, emptiness, restrained aesthetics, and richness within restraint.
- **Intuition / Insight**: A space that resonates with the senses and intuition of individual guests.
- **Aesthetics**: A sophisticated design sense that is understated yet refined.
Indeed, the interior design of Zentis Osaka was handled by world-renowned designer Tara Bernerd, famous for skillfully blending traditional Japanese 'Zen' aesthetics (Eastern emptiness and naturalism) with modern Western sensibilities.
- **Use of Natural Materials**: Utilizes eco-friendly materials like wood, stone, and warm-toned fabrics.
- **Clean Design**: Avoids excessive decoration, emphasizing spatial openness and flow.
- **Peace of Mind**: Although located in the heart of the city (Osaka Dojima), the moment you step inside, it creates a serene atmosphere unique to 'Zen,' bringing a sense of calm and order.
The rooms were also clean, and I particularly liked that they had hardwood floors instead of carpet.
3. **Staff Friendliness**
I arrived early on the first day, intending to just drop off my luggage and go sightseeing, but they allowed an early check-in. All the staff were very kind and helpful, which I appreciated.
5. **Overall Conclusion**
If I visit Osaka again, I would definitely want to stay here.FromNZD 287
9.1/10Great612 Reviews
Shinsaibashi/Namba/Yotsubashi Osaka|3.24km from downtown
This stay really exceeded my expectations! The location is absolutely fantastic – right outside Namba Subway Exit 6, and just a short walk to Takashimaya and Nankai Namba Station. It's incredibly convenient whether you're shopping, eating, or getting around, saving so much travel time. 💖
We booked a family room, and the kids absolutely loved the bunk bed. It was sparkling clean, and there was no unpleasant odor in the bathroom. The breakfast spread was excellent, with a wide variety from hot porridge to Western pastries, all fresh and delicious.FromNZD 223
FAQs About Osaka Airport
-
Which airport is main in Osaka?
The main international airport in Osaka is the Kansai International Airport (KIX), and the Itami Airport (ITM) handles domestic flights in Japan. -
Is ITM or KIX closer to Osaka?
Itami Airport (ITM) is closer to Osaka than Kansai International Airport (KIX), which serves the entire Kansai region. -
Is an arrival card needed for Japan?
Yes, all foreigners visiting Japan need to fill out an arrivals card before passing through immigration. You can fill it out online at Visit Japan Web, or on paper just before immigration at your arrival airport in Japan. -
What is the difference between Osaka International Airport and Kansai International Airport?<br>
Osaka International Airport is the old name of Itami Airport in Osaka, which was renamed in English at the end of 2025. Kansai International Airport is the actual international airport that serves the Kansai region, which includes Osaka.
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Hi, I'm James, an Australian travel writer based in Europe. Years of trips across Asia, Europe, the US and back home in Australia have taught me that good travel comes down to having the right information beforehand: knowing the details of transfers and public transport, which queue to skip, what's worth it and what's not. I'm bringing all that knowledge and research to my travel guides for Trip.com so you can spend less time working it out and more time enjoying your trip.
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