The always-reliable Hotel Gracery brand have set themselves up well with their latest addition within Osaka – in the heart of the Minami district, and right beside the gigantic transport hub of Namba Station.  A clean and simple hotel for the budget-conscious traveller, guestrooms are on the snug side in size – but it’s unlikely you are using the hotel for much more than a place to sleep.  On your doorstep is the revved-up Dotonbori – the entertainment centre of this hedonistic city, and the location of some of Osaka’s best bars, izakaya restaurants and music venues.

To get a bit more space to move and sleep, we would generally recommend booking the twin rooms instead of the doubles.  In Japan it is more common to have separate beds anyway, and the extra space affords you a place to stow your luggage.  Triple rooms – a rarity in the Far East – can be arranged for families, making this a great way to save some more money if Osaka is part of your itinerary.  Breakfast is a Western buffet, far more varied than most hotels will offer – definitely eat your fill before embarking on a full day of exploring.