As the third largest city in Japan, Osaka is a vibrant metropolis that is sure to delight a variety of visitors! Known as the culinary and nightlife capital of the country, Osaka is the place to be if you want to party and embed yourself in the culture of modern Japan. Though it might seem corporate on the surface, there is plenty of culture hiding beneath the surface.

As such a large city, figuring out the best place to stay in Osaka can be a challenge. Even the most seasoned travellers struggle to make sense of the many different neighborhoods in this bustling city.

That’s where we come in! We’ve created this guide to the seven best neighborhoods in Osaka, and categorised them based on who they are best for.

So let’s jump into it!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Osaka

• Where to stay in Osaka for your first time?Osaka Castle
• Where to stay in Osaka close to everything?Kita
• Where to stay in Osaka for nightlife?Namba
• Best neighborhood in Osaka for families?Osaka Bay
• Where to stay in Osaka on a budget?Honmachi
• Where to stay in Osaka for couples?Tennoji
• Where to stay in Osaka for exploring the rest of Japan?Shin-Osaka

Where to Stay in Osaka

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Osaka.

Osaka 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the five best neighbourhoods in Osaka. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Osaka Castle

Best neighbourhood in Osaka for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Osaka Castle – take a boat tour around the moat of Osaka Castle and learn about its history
• BEST place to visit in Osaka Castle – enter Osaka Castle itself, a popular meeting point for locals with great views across the city

The Osaka Castle area surrounds the eponymous landmark and is an important gathering place on the outskirts of the city centre! For first time visitors, the Osaka Castle area is a little bit quieter and easier to navigate, giving you an easy introduction into the otherwise hectic city.

The park surrounding the castle is popular during cherry blossom season, where you will see many visitors and locals alike revelling amongst the trees and enjoying the sunshine! There are plenty of fantastic restaurants and bars in the area, as well as some interesting historic attractions where you can learn more about the region.

• Visit the Osaka Museum of History where you can admire a wide range of exhibits depicting the turbulent history of the city
• Osaka Science Museum is another popular attraction, with a planetarium and cinema – perfect if you are travelling with kids
• If you want to sample the infamous Japanese blowfish, head to Fugutora who prepare the notorious ingredient in a variety of ways
• Nightlife is a little more laid-back in the Osaka Castle area, and Harenohi is a great example of this with a wide selection of craft beers
• Take a tour of a major Japanese TV station – Japan Broadcasting Corporation – at BK Plaza

Best Budget Hotel in Osaka Castle

Hotel The Lutheran

If you want to keep some of your Western comforts whilst staying in Japan, Hotel The Lutheran is a good choice that is based on American hotels! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and come with large en-suite bathrooms. A buffet breakfast is served every morning, and WiFi can be accessed throughout.

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Haven’t Booked for Osaka? Read up on our favorite hostels in Osaka (for any budget)!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Osaka Castle

KKR Hotel Osaka

If you want to be as close to Osaka Castle as possible during your stay in the city, then you can’t go wrong by staying at the KKR Hotel Osaka. The hotel is situated right opposite the castle and guests can even enjoy views of Osaka Castle while dining at the on-site restaurant, which also serves up a storm of tasty & traditional food options.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Osaka Castle

Hotel New Otani Osaka

This gorgeous five-star hotel is located right in front of Osaka Castle, giving you great views across the city and an unbeatable location! There is a large spa facility on-site with saunas, hot tubs and massage treatments available. There are also multiple restaurants and a good selection of beauty facilities.

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Check this out – the 11 best boutique hotels in Osaka will blow you away!

Neighborhood #2 – Kita

Where to stay in Osaka close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Kita – shop along Tenjinbashi-suji, a huge shopping street with a variety of outlets
• BEST place to visit in Kita – ride to the top of Umeda Sky Building for mesmerising views across the city

Whilst Osaka doesn’t have a distinctive city centre area, Kita is the next best thing! Most of the major transport lines run through this area, giving you easy access to all areas of the city. It is also the most visited tourist district in the city, with a wide range of entertainment, dining and nightlife options available.

As an important hub, Kita can get quite busy – making it the best location to discover just how vibrant Osaka can be! Umeda is the main tourist part of the area, however neighboring Nakazakicho is great if you want something more alternative.

• Japan has a unique café culture, and there’s nowhere better to experience this than Utena Kissaten
• Nakazakicho is known for its lifestyle goods stores, so if you want to grab some interesting home and beauty items head to Asobiya
• Help Five is a major shopping and entertainment complex that has a ferris wheel where you can admire views across Osaka
• The National Museum of Art is based in the Kita neighborhood and has fantastic exhibits from across the world
• If you want to sample authentic Japanese ramen, head to Gunjou – a local favourite that is still off most tourist itineraries

Best Budget Hotel in Kita

STAY Vintage

Located within a vintage modernist building, this hotel is perfect if you want to stay in the heart of the action on a budget! Rooms are well equipped with large seating areas and modern en-suite bathrooms. There is a 24-hour reception available to help you plan your itinerary.

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Editor’s Tip: make friends by staying at a cool hostel in Tokyo!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Kita

Hotel Intergate Osaka Umeda

If you want to be as close to Osaka Castle as possible during your stay in the city, then you can’t go wrong by staying at the KKR Hotel Osaka. The hotel is situated right opposite the castle and guests can even enjoy views of Osaka Castle while dining at the on-site restaurant, which also serves up a storm of tasty & traditional food options.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Kita

The Ritz-Carlton Osaka

Ritz-Carlton are a globally recognised luxury hotel chain and they have brought their European elegance to Osaka! There are five restaurants on-site, including a French restaurant that has been awarded a Michelin star. They offer a complimentary buffet breakfast every morning, private parking and a luxurious bathing area.

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Neighborhood #3 – Namba

Where to stay in Osaka for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Namba – head on the official Osaka Pub Crawl – a great way to sample the nightlife and meet other visitors
• BEST place to visit in Namba – visit the Amerika Mura district to discover Japan’s thriving street fashion scene

Located within the Minami district, Namba is the place to be if you are interested in nightlife! Every night this district comes alive with both locals and visitors looking to party and enjoy a few drinks. There is a great variety of bars and clubs to cater to all tastes – whether you prefer something a little more laid back or want to experience the biggest, loudest events.

During the day Namba is also a major centre for the local culinary scene! This is where some of the most innovative restaurants reside where you can discover modern takes on Japanese and international dishes.

• Head to the Misono Building in the evenings to check out the many bars available on the second floor
• Head to the izakaya (traditional Japenese pubs) of Hozenji Yokocho if you are more interested in mingling with locals
• Midosuji is the premier shopping street in Osaka with plenty of international brands for those looking to splurge
• Okonomiyaki is one of the most popular dishes in Osaka, and there are plenty of restaurants offering it in Namba – we suggest Chibo
• If you want to learn more about the local religious beliefs, visit Namba Yasaka Shrine

Best Budget Hotel in Namba

Midosuji Hotel

This two-star hotel might seem pretty basic from the outside, but they have excellent guest reviews thanks to their fantastic service and high-quality facilities! All rooms come with both a shower and a bathtub, as well as luxury toiletries. There is also a hot spring bath within the hotel.

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Hiroshima is great! Hiroshima’s hostels are great too!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Namba

Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba Station

A fancy, sleek, and modern hotel offering competitive prices in a sought-after location, Hiyori Hotel Osaka Namba is our top pick for the best mid-range hotel in the neighborhood. The hotel has a great selection of stylish room options and also serves up a tasty buffet breakfast every morning.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Namba

Swissotel Nankai Osaka

Another internationally renowned hotel brand in the heart of Osaka, Swissotel Nankai is packed with luxury facilities! There is an indoor pool on-site, as well as a large spa facility that offers a variety of holistic therapies. A buffet breakfast is provided every morning, and there is a 24-hour gym.

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Let’s narrow it down! Near Haneda Airport are some of the best hostels!

Neighborhood #4 – Osaka Bay

Best neighbourhood in Osaka for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Osaka Bay – spend time in Universal Studios Japan, the most popular amusement park in the country
• BEST place to visit in Osaka Bay – climb up Mount Tezopan, the smallest mountain in Japan with easy hiking routes

The Osaka Bay area is the home of the city’s major amusement parks – making it the perfect spot for families! Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment facilities. The hugely popular Universal Studios theme park is based in the area – ideal for keeping the kids entertained.

Theme parks aside, Osaka Bay is also one of the most laid back neighborhoods in Osaka! It is an excellent choice if you want to get away from the busy crowds of the city centre, though does still have fantastic transport links across the city if you decide you want to explore further afield.

• Visit Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN, one of the largest aquariums in the world with massive displays and regular events
• If you want something that gives you more insight into the local culture, Maishima Pottery Village is a fantastic experience
• Osaka Takoyaki Museum is dedicated to the local delicacy, and you can learn about its history whilst sampling different kinds
• Tempozan Harbor Village is a must visit for travellers interested in shopping, and of course, contains the iconic ferris wheel
• Nanko Bird Sanctuary is housed on an entire island and makes a great day trip for discovering local wildlife

Best Budget Hotel in Osaka Bay

Osaka Port Hotel L’Espoir

Located within walking distance of the aquarium and the ferry to Universal Studios, this hotel is ideal for families that want easy access to the entertainment facilities whilst still staying in a peaceful part of the city! Rooms are decorated in a fusion style of Japanese and American décor.

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Planning to visit Tokyo? Some of the best hostels are near Tokyo Station!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Osaka Bay

Quintessa Hotel Osaka Bay

This 4-star hotel is situated right near the waterfront of Osaka Bay and offers some fantastic on-site amenities. At the hotel, you can expect to find beautiful rooms furnished with modern interiors, a tasty restaurant along with high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Osaka Bay

Hyatt Regency Osaka

This hotel has five restaurants, a well-equipped gym and an indoor pool – as well as an outdoor pool during the summer! If you really wanted to, you could easily stay entirely within the hotel grounds and have all your needs catered for. They have large rooms and suites that are perfect for families.

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Have some time? Get out of the city with these epic day trips from Tokyo!

Neighborhood #5 – Honmachi

Where to stay in Osaka on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Honmachi – wander around Utsubo-koen park, a relaxing green space in the centre of the area
• BEST place to visit in Honmachi – visit the Namba Yasaka Shrine, which is surrounded by gorgeous cherry blossoms every spring

Honmachi is sandwiched between Namba and Kita, making it ideally located for exploring the city centre attractions! Japan is a notoriously expensive country, but if you want to stick to a strict budget then staying in Honmachi makes this possible. The hotels, restaurants and bars are often slightly cheaper in this area.

Whilst there aren’t many attractions in Honmachi, its laid back atmosphere lets you take in the culture of the surrounding city without having to worry about too many tourists! There are also some great dining and shopping options. If you want to be central, but don’t want to splurge, Honmachi is perfect.

• The Christie Art Gallery is a small, locally owned gallery where you can check out some contemporary pieces
• The Kimono Experience Shop Wasobi is a great place to try on a kimono, and even pick up some souvenirs to take home
• The Osaka Science and Technology Museum is based in Honmachi, and has some fantastic exhibits that constantly change
• Sushi Hayata is one of the best-priced sushi restaurants in the city, offering small plates to take away
• For vegetarians and vegans, Green Earth is an immensely popular restaurant in the heart of Honmachi with an environmentally friendly conscious

Don’t stay in the city too long! Take one of these great day trips from Osaka to see more of the area!

Best Budget Hotel in Honmachi

Viale Osaka

Viale Osaka is the perfect budget option if you still want a little bit of privacy! Rooms are fully air-conditioned, and the hotel is only a short walk away from Honmachi allowing you to explore the city with ease. There is a large international buffet provided complimentary to all guests every morning.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Honmachi

Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi

Despite only being a 3-star hotel, Hotel Cordia Osaka Hommachi is fitted with lavishly designed amenities throughout. At the hotel, guests will have a choice between a range of air-conditioned rooms, all of which come with a private en-suite bathroom.

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Heading to Kyoto? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Kyoto!

Best Luxury Hotel in Honmachi

St Regis Osaka

If you still want to splurge on accommodation whilst staying in the most budget-friendly area, St Regis Osaka is an excellent hotel with unbeatable facilities! There are multiple restaurants on-site, including a rooftop Italian restaurant with great views. They also provide a full butler service and complimentary Japanese breakfast.

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Neighborhood #6 – Tennoji

Best neighbourhood in Osaka for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Tennoji – enjoy the heated swimming pool and great sports facilities at Tennoji Sports Centre
• BEST place to visit in Tennoji – Tsutenkaku Tower is a major part of the Osaka skyline, and provides great views across the city

Whilst Tennoji used to be one of the most run-down neighborhoods in the city, it has recently gentrified into a flourishing tourist area! This gives it a very youthful vibe that is perfect for young couples wanting to explore a unique area of Osaka. There are plenty of great restaurants and bars around every corner.

Tsutenkaku Tower is the main landmark in the area, and probably the reason it is now so up and coming! This is a great place to admire the views of the city as well as the sunset every evening. Tennoji is an area in transformation, which creates an incredibly exciting atmosphere.

• Shittenoji Temple is architecturally interesting in that it showcases design from Japan’s revival period – it’s also an interesting religious monument
• Tennoji Zoo is fairly small when it comes to zoos, but has an intimate atmosphere and wide range of exhibits
• Tennoji-koen park is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll in the heart of the city, with an art museum and temple within the park
• For a Michelin starred dining experience, you have to head to Yamachan, where you can sample some of the best local fare
• If you want to save some cash and truly experience Japanese street food, head to the Shinsekai district, close to the park

Best Budget Hotel in Tennoji

Bureau Shitennoji Hotel

Bureau Shitennoji offer rooms and apartments – perfect for those who want some extra privacy during their stay! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and come with all the modern conveniences you need for a short stay in the city. They have a 24-hour front desk to help you plan your itinerary and book taxis.

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Not finding the right hostel? Tokyo has a selection of party hostels too!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Tennoji

Hotel Awina Osaka

Hotel Awaina Osaka has a brilliant location in the city, with it being surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants, and is just a short walk to Osaka Uehonmachi Train Station, which has great connections to the rest of the city.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Tennoji

Osaka Marriott Miyako Hotel

For couples looking to splurge on the ultimate romantic getaway, the Osaka Marriott is a fantastic five-star hotel! Rooms come with coffee machines and complimentary mini-bars. The restaurant offers both Japanese and international cuisine and serves an American style buffet every morning. They also have a well-equipped fitness centre.

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Editor’s Note: If you’ll be in Osaka, check out the top things to do in Osaka during your visit!

Neighborhood #7 – Shin-Osaka

Best neighbourhood in Osaka for exploring the rest of Japan!

• COOLEST thing to do in Shin-Osaka – unwind with a relaxing massage from Balinese Salon Rima
• BEST place to visit in Shin-Osaka – Nakajimasosha is a traditional temple in the area that is far less touristy than those in the city centre

Shin-Osaka is located in the far north of Osaka, and has the main train station for travelling further afield! This is where you can catch the bullet train that will take you around Japan in no time at all. It is perfectly possible to stay in Shin-Osaka and take day trips to other parts of the country such as Tokyo and Kyoto.

Whilst there aren’t many tourist attractions to speak of in Shin-Osaka, there are plenty of excellent bars and restaurants that have a more local vibe! This area has a much calmer atmosphere than the city centre, allowing you to have a much more local experience.

• Hop on the bullet train – an attraction in itself, it can take you on day trips to other major cities on Japan’s main island
• Yanaken Boo is a fantastic restaurant where you can sample contemporary Japanese cuisine at great prices
• Take part in some typical Japanese karaoke at Karaoke Bar Guts, located just a few minutes away from Shin-Osaka station
• Grab some excellent bourbon cocktails at the Jim Beam Bar

Will you also visit Yokohama? Check out where we like to stay in Yokohama!

Best Budget Hotel in Shin-Osaka

Residential Hotel Hare

Though fairly basic, rooms at this two-star hotel have an ultra-modern, minimalist design that creates a relaxing environment! Rooms come with free toiletries, fridges and air conditioning – giving you a convenient and calm place to sleep. Free WiFi is available throughout.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Shin-Osaka

remm Shin-Osaka

Remm Shin-Osaka offers a range of modern contemporary rooms all of which come with a rain shower and some come with a bathtub along with large windows overlooking the city. The hotel also has an unbeatable location directly opposite the JR Shin Osaka Train Station!

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MUST READ! You’ve got to visit these places in japan when you’re there!

Best Luxury Hotel in Shin-Osaka

Courtyard by Marriott

Another excellent hotel by Marriott, Courtyard is a very recent addition to the five-star hotel scene in Osaka and is, therefore, one of the most modern! Free valet parking is included for those arriving by car, and high-speed WiFi can be accessed from every room. A continental breakfast is included.

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Osaka?

Osaka is an intriguing destination that on first impression just seems like any other modern city. Scratch beneath the surface, however, and you will find a vibrant destination packed with culture, cuisine and an interesting history!

For the best area, we’re going to have to go with Kita! Osaka is a massive city, and this central location allows you to easily reach the other areas mentioned in this list within minutes.

That being said, all of the areas mentioned in this guide have some great pros, and we’re sure you will enjoy your stay in this eclectic metropolis.

Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments!

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