Perched in the sky over Osaka, the Conrad is an unpretentious luxury hotel that fits perfectly into the urban landscape. On the narrow strip of island, Nakanoshima, between the Dojima and Tosobori rivers, the Conrad enjoys few directly-neighbouring buildings while still benefiting from 360-degrees of spectacular views in Osaka’s northern Kita downtown area. The frenetic Osaka/Umeda Station complex – a major hub – is a short stroll away, and highly-efficient public transport makes the rest of the city’s local attractions easy to reach too.
Even the lead-in rooms here are more than big enough for the most encumbered of travellers, so there’s plenty of space to spread your luggage out and relax. Ultramodern in design, with tablets to control lighting, window blinds and temperature, Bluetooth speakers and (admittedly) unnecessarily gigantic TVs – but unlike similar hotels, the Conrad has flourishes of Japonisme to give some authentic flavour. Splashes of torii-gate vermilion, stoneware tea sets and lacquer touches really add some culture to the luxury interior design. Upon arriving into the Conrad’s 40th floor lobby, you will know you made the right choice in staying here – unapologetically artsy and grandiose, while still demonstrating a warm and welcoming Japanese atmosphere, we have no qualms in recommending a stay here.