This was our first hotel on our trip around Japan. We arrived at 11am after a sleepless overnight flight and were expecting to have to leave our luggage and come back later to check in, but we were able to go into our room straight away! This was a welcome surprise as we could have a much needed rest before a bit of sightseeing.
The room was quite small, but we expected this from reading previous reviews, spotless, and at £45 a night (a promotional rate direct from their website) it was a bargain. Suitcases fitted under the bed, so once they were out the way it was fine. The room had a full sized double bed not a semi-double and it was very comfy. It was also nice and quiet, despite being in the middle of a busy area of Osaka.
Lots of toiletries and things were provided, ladies got a bag with face cleansers and lotions etc. Bathroom was like a little pod, but perfectly clean and had all you needed, including a small bath.
It's conveniently located by Namba station which serves as a hub for a number of rail lines. The station is huge mind, and the JR part was the opposite end to the exit closest to the hotel, but it was a nice walk through an underground shopping arcade - great for picking up a Bento on the way back to the hotel. There are frequent maps on the wall and the exits are numbered, so you can find your way if you get a bit disoriented (which we did a couple of times!) You only have to walk a minute down the street from the hotel and your in the really lively Dotonbori street, with loads of restuarants and bright lights - the famous giant crab and puffer fish signs are here. There's also a Lawson's convenience store directly opposite the hotel.
A folder full of useful info about local restaurants and attractions was also provided in the room. It also had details of what special offer tickets you could get from reception. The reception staff were great, they spoke good English - checking in/out was fine, we also bought some tickets for the subway/aquarium and floating garden from them, and when we checked out they sorted out sending our luggage onto our next main hotel we were going to be at in a couple of days time.
Great value for money and helpful staff!
- Dotonbori Hotel Osaka
