Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka (ホリデイ・イン&スイーツ新大阪) Hotel Guide
During my recent rail journey across Japan, I spent seven nights at Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka, making full use of the Sanyo-San’in Rail Pass. As part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts group, the hotel offers loyalty benefits and reward points for bookings made through IHG. I split my stay into two parts (four nights, then three nights) as I worked toward reaching 40 IHG nights for the year.
Hotel Exterior and First Impressions
Modern Design and Clean Aesthetics
Opened in 2020, this hotel features a contemporary look and fresh vibe. While the surrounding area might not seem like a typical hotel district, the property stands out with a sleek exterior that resembles an office building more than a standard hotel. If you’re not paying attention, you might miss it on your first pass.
Lobby and Check-in Experience
Smooth Check-in with Multilingual Staff
As you walk into the lobby, you’ll see the check-in counter and the hotel’s restaurant, Cafe Hi!, which serves both breakfast and lunch. There’s also complimentary bottled water available for guests.
- Check-in: From 3 PM
- Check-out: By 11 AM
- Total Rooms: 185
I checked in twice during my stay and found the process efficient both times. English communication was smooth, though the staff’s proficiency varied. The hotel has three elevators serving its 11 floors, so getting around was never an issue.
Room Features
Spacious, Clean, and Well-Equipped Rooms
I was upgraded to a Twin Bed Studio Suite thanks to my IHG Diamond Elite status. This suite was ideal for two people, offering plenty of storage, a comfortable work desk, and a cozy sofa.
- Pros:
- Large windows bring in lots of light and create an open atmosphere.
- Modern security with keycard access for the building and elevators.
- A well-equipped kitchenette with high-quality appliances and utensils.
- Cons:
- The hallway near the kitchenette is a bit narrow.
- The windows can’t be opened, which might affect ventilation.
Kitchen and Laundry Facilities
Perfect for Long Stays
One of the best aspects of these suite-style rooms is the mini kitchen:
- Kitchen Amenities:
- Full-sized fridge with freezer
- Microwave and 2-burner induction cooktop
- Nespresso machine with free capsules
- All the essential cookware and WMF utensils
- Laundry: Each suite features a Miele washing machine discreetly installed in the kitchen area. You can purchase detergent and softener from nearby drugstores or supermarkets.
The kitchen made it easy to cook simple meals, and the hotel’s proximity to supermarkets was a huge plus.
Bathroom and Amenities
Relaxation and Functionality Combined
The bathroom is another highlight, with a large bathtub ideal for soaking. The separate layout for the toilet, sink, and shower/bath made it extra convenient.
- Key Features:
- Adjustable lighting on the bathroom mirror
- Choice of a seated or standing shower
- Spacious bathtub for relaxing after a long day
Hotel Dining: Breakfast at Cafe Hi!
A Simple but Satisfying Start to the Day
Breakfast is served at Cafe Hi! on the lobby floor. The selection isn’t extensive, but the food quality is decent—good for short stays.
- Hours: 6:45 AM to 10:00 AM
- Price: ¥1,980
If you’re staying longer, you might find the options a bit repetitive after the first couple of days.
Additional Facilities
Fitness Center and More
The 24-hour fitness center is free for all guests. Other facilities include meeting rooms and a coin laundry, though there’s no pool or spa.
Location and Accessibility
Convenient Yet Somewhat Remote
The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Shin-Osaka Station (Exit 4, Osaka Metro). While the location is generally convenient, it can feel a bit out of the way if you’re carrying lots of luggage or arriving late.
- Travel Times to Major Spots:
- Osaka (Umeda): About 5 minutes by train
- Namba: Around 15 minutes by train
- Kyoto: Around 30 minutes by train
Pros and Cons: A Summary
What I Loved ❤️
- Excellent IHG Elite benefits
- Rooms with full kitchen and laundry—ideal for long stays
- Large, modern bathrooms
- Affordable rates and close to convenience stores and supermarkets
What Could Be Better 👎
- Breakfast variety is limited
- Windows can’t be opened
- The location is slightly inconvenient compared to hotels directly next to the station
- Narrow kitchen area in some rooms
Final Verdict: Great for Extended Stays and Workcations
Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka may not be the best pick for a quick overnight stop due to its location, but for long-term stays or workcations, it’s an excellent choice. If you enjoy having kitchen and laundry facilities in your room, this hotel is hard to beat.
