Set very conveniently in Osaka’s station complex, which makes for easy navigating (that said, the station, like all Japanese stations, is enormous) and shopping (the complex also houses numerous big shopping malls) – the Hotel Granvia is a large, modern hotel that fuses the best of international and Japanese hospitality.
Travelling around Japan is easy thanks to the country’s amazing bullet train system and with it comes equally sophisticated and often mammoth train stations that are like cities in themselves. Osaka’s main station is no different, and it is home to the Hotel Granvia Osaka.
Being based in the station was a huge bonus, we stepped off the Shinkansen right into the hotel and also found it to be the perfect base to explore the rest of Osaka, from its iconic billboards at Dotonburi to the city’s famous castle, to the numerous restaurants serving up its famous dish, Okonomi-yaki.
Our club floor booking gave us private access to a VIP lounge accessed by our key cards – sadly quite limited in its offering in comparison to other luxury club lounges, but giving welcome respite to the extremely busy because of its size – the Hotel Granvia Tokyo is somewhat of a Godzilla of hotels by Japanese standard, it has a total of 716 rooms and seven dining outlets. As such service here is as efficient and professional as only the Japanese can be, but in general don’t expect it to be deeply personalised.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Insider | KIX / ITM | GMT +9 |
| While you’re Out There |
| Location, location, location. Osaka’s sights are all within easy reach of the Hotel Granvia Osaka. Our favourite was Osaka-jo or Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, a five-story palace that has a close to 500-year-old history. |
Our room was well appointed and extremely comfortable, furnished in a typically Japanese minimalist, contemporary style, so as not to distract from the floor-to-ceiling view of the city’s unending LCD-lit skyscrapers and mountain ranges beyond. The views from higher floors are particularly impressive, showcasing Osaka’s skyline in all its urban splendour. The decor is pretty much what you’d expect from a big-name chain hotel, which is a shame as it stops just short of having much more personality and a sense of local character.
Dining options at the Granvia Osaka offer a variety of culinary experiences. From casual international fare at the bustling Cafe Dining “le temps” to authentic Japanese cuisine at Ukihashi, there is something to suit every palate.
One of the standout features of Hotel Granvia Osaka is its impressive array of facilities. The fitness centre is well-equipped for guests looking to maintain their workout routines, while the indoor pool offers a relaxing retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Overall, Hotel Granvia Osaka offers a solid, convenient and comfortable stay in the heart of Osaka’s transportation hub; and it is also very well-priced. While certain areas could benefit from enhancements to match the expectations of luxury travellers, the hotel’s prime location and well-appointed facilities make it a viable choice for visitors seeking accessibility and modern comforts in this dynamic city.
Photography courtesy of Hotel Granvia Osaka
