Overview of My Stay at Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka (ホリデイ・イン&スイーツ新大阪)
During my recent train trip through Japan, I stayed at the Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka for seven nights, making use of the Sanyo-San’in Rail Pass. As part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts chain, the hotel offers loyalty benefits and points for bookings made directly through IHG. I split my stay into two periods (4 nights and 3 nights) as part of my goal to reach 40 nights with IHG this year. 😊
Hotel Exterior and First Impressions
Modern Design and Clean Aesthetics
Opened in 2020, the hotel boasts a modern and clean look. Located in an area that seems unlikely for a hotel, it stands out with its unique design, resembling an office building more than a traditional hotel. Keep an eye out for it—it’s easy to miss at first glance.
Lobby and Check-in Experience
Smooth Check-in with Multilingual Staff
Upon entering the lobby, you’ll find the check-in desk and the hotel’s restaurant, Cafe Hi!, which offers breakfast and lunch. Complimentary bottled water is also available here.
- Check-in Time: From 3 PM
- Check-out Time: Until 11 AM
- Total Rooms: 185
I checked in twice during my stay, and both times, communication in English was smooth, though the fluency varied among staff members. With three elevators serving 11 floors, getting around was quick and convenient.
Room Features
Spacious, Clean, and Well-Equipped Rooms
I stayed in the Twin Bed Studio Suite, which was upgraded from a standard room thanks to my IHG Diamond Elite status. This suite-style room was perfect for two people, with ample storage, a comfortable work desk, and a cozy sofa.
- Pros:
- Large windows provide natural light and a sense of openness.
- Modern security features, like keycard access to the building and elevators.
- A kitchenette with premium appliances and utensils.
- Cons:
- Limited space in the hallway near the kitchenette.
- Windows are non-operable, which may affect ventilation.
Kitchen and Laundry Facilities
Perfect for Long Stays
One of the highlights of the hotel is the mini kitchen available in suite-style rooms:
- Kitchen Amenities:
- Full-sized refrigerator with a freezer compartment.
- Microwave and a 2-burner induction stovetop.
- Nespresso coffee machine with complimentary capsules.
- Essential cookware and WMF-brand utensils.
- Laundry:
A Miele washing machine is discreetly built into the kitchen. Detergent and softener can be purchased at nearby drugstores or supermarkets.
The kitchen made it easy to prepare simple meals during my stay, and the hotel’s proximity to large supermarkets was a huge plus.
Bathroom and Amenities
Relaxation and Functionality Combined
The bathroom was a standout feature, with a spacious bathtub perfect for soaking. The layout—separate areas for the toilet, sink, and shower/bath—added convenience and comfort.
- Key Features:
- Adjustable lighting on the bathroom mirror.
- Both seated and standing shower options.
- Generously sized bathtub.
Hotel Dining: Breakfast at Cafe Hi!
A Simple but Satisfying Start to the Day
Breakfast is served at Cafe Hi!, located on the lobby floor. While the selection isn’t extensive, the quality is decent, making it a good option for shorter stays.
- Hours: 6:45 AM to 10:00 AM
- Price: ¥1,980
For longer stays, the limited variety may feel repetitive, so you might consider skipping breakfast after the first couple of days.
Additional Facilities
Fitness Center and More
The hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center free for guests. Other facilities include meeting rooms and coin laundry, but the absence of other major amenities like a pool or spa may be noticeable to some.
Location and Accessibility
Convenient Yet Somewhat Remote
The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Shin-Osaka Station (Exit 4 of Osaka Metro). While the location is not bad, the distance can be a drawback, especially if you’re carrying luggage or arriving late at night.
- Travel Times to Major Attractions:
- Osaka (Umeda): ~5 minutes by train
- Namba: ~15 minutes by train
- Kyoto: ~30 minutes by train
Pros and Cons: A Summary
What I Loved ❤️
- Generous IHG Elite tier benefits.
- Well-equipped rooms with kitchen and laundry facilities.
- Spacious bathrooms with modern fixtures.
- Affordable rates and proximity to convenience stores and supermarkets.
What Could Be Better 👎
- Limited variety in the breakfast menu.
- Non-operable windows.
- Slightly inconvenient location relative to Shin-Osaka Station.
- Narrow space near the kitchen area in some rooms.
Final Verdict: Great for Extended Stays and Workcations
While it may not be ideal for a short trip due to its location, the Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka shines as an excellent choice for long-term stays or workcations. If you enjoy cooking your own meals and need a laundry-equipped room, this hotel is a fantastic option.
[ANA Crowne Plaza Fukuoka Review: Japan IHG Hotels]
