St. Regis Osaka

St. Regis Osaka

The St. Regis, which was constructed in 2010, is one of Osaka’s newest five-star hotels, and located on high-end Midosuji Avenue, known as the Champs Elysées of Osaka.  Lined with ginkgo trees and the flagships of luxury brands, Midosuji Avenue goes through Osaka’s most lively neighbourhoods: Umeda, Shinsaibashi, Dōtonbori, Amerika-mura, and Namba. A splendid hotel, the lobby is located high up on the 12th floor, and this elevated position ensures the hotel offers great views from both its rooms and its communal areas.

It’s very modern, with remote-controlled curtains and televisions in the bathroom. It has many nice touches: the towels are made from Imabari cotton; all rooms have a walk-in wardrobe with an umbrella in and a well-stocked mini bar. The rooms have large windows (the Midosuji view is particularly recommended) and trees are illuminated in the streets below during winter.

All of the rooms are uniquely decorated with different artefacts and ornaments, making the hotel feel very personal. When it comes to dining, the St Regis offers a good range of elegant dining options. Breakfast is taken in the Italian restaurant, which can accommodate approximately 60 guests. There is also a private room for six diners.

In short, the St. Regis offers large, modern rooms with Japanese touches, easy access to the subway, and all the other facilities you would expect from a world-class hotel.

The bar and afternoon tea room here are particular highlights: there is a lovely tapestry wall hanging behind the bar which illustrates Osaka, its history and its attractions. It’s a very chic space and the artwork which adorns it was created by an influential Japanese designer. This area is open from 10am until 10pm daily, and a pianist plays from 8pm each evening. During the summer season, guests can enjoy the hotel’s tranquil Beer Garden. A popular attraction, synonymous with summer in Japan, the St Regis beer garden comprises an elegant, zen garden and a decking area equipped with sofas. In addition to enjoying drinks here, it’s also possible to dine outdoors. The contrast between the tranquillity of the garden and the oppressive-nature of the many concrete skyscrapers was a fascinating sight: the St Regis is a real escape amongst the concrete jungle of Osaka. I'd recommend this hotel for families or couples looking to relax in comfort and sophistication after a busy, bustling day in Osaka.

Reviewed by Rebecca