This year we embarked on our first adventure to Japan and explored Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. We found this itinerary to be great for first time visitors to Japan. In Osaka we stayed at the Intercontinental, a family-friendly, 5 star hotel with luxurious rooms and suites located between the 21st and 32nd floors.

Location

Intercontinental Osaka is within a five minute walk from the JR Osaka train station. Getting to Osaka from Tokyo is very easy on a high-speed train; Shinkanzen. The journey takes 2.5hrs and brings you to Osaka station, then a few stops on a local train will get you within walking distance to the hotel. Navigating Osaka by train is very easy and after a few days in Japan we were very proficient with the help of english signs and a map provided by the helpful concierge.

Accommodation

Intercontinental Osaka caters very well to families with their selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments equipped with kitchenettes. For couples we would recommend spacious Club rooms.

The two-bedroom apartment is The Lux Traveller’s choice – combined living and dining areas feel open with floor to ceiling windows showcasing Osaka’s skyline, the master bedroom features a king size bed and an ensuite. Kids can share a bedroom with two singles. If you have babies in tow, a little kitchen is great to prepare small meals and the dining area for six guests makes it a wonderful setting for a family dinner.

Dining

Intercontinental Osaka is home to a one Michelin star restaurant, Pierre, a must visit, even if you are not staying in the hotel.

The French cuisine enhanced by Japanese touches offers an element of surprise in each dish. The menu is a mystery box of surprises, you will only find the ingredients to your meal on paper so there is an element of surprise as your dishes are presented to you.  The chef encourages his guests to indulge in his creations with all 5 senses. Why limit yourself to just taste? Pierre offers a degustation menu only, so you are in for a night of pure indulgence, with every menu featuring at least eight dishes.

NOKA Roast & Grill serves a buffet breakfast and an a la carte dinner, featuring an open kitchen and a delectable selection of roasted and grilled meats as its speciality. The restaurant is located on Level 20 of the hotel, boasting the city skyline views.

Club Intercontinental

Club Intercontinental also deserves a special mention. It is the most elegant club I have seen recently with stunning interiors, white table cloths at meal times, silver service and gourmet food. The Club is exclusively for Suites and Club guests, never crowded, with just a few elegant guests in the Club at any time. Here, guests can enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, pre-dinner drinks and beautiful hot / cold buffet in the evening. I would highly recommend Club access in your stay – in this hotel it is quite an experience.

Adee Bar

Adee Bar on level 20 of the hotel is a little gem with live music that goes off on Friday and Saturday nights. The vibey atmosphere and great cocktails make it a place to see and be seen.

Meguri Spa and Fitness

I love a hotel with beautiful relaxation facilities. It makes a huge difference to the stay when you can return after a day’s work or sightseeing to a beautiful pool, well equipped gym or indulge in a relaxing massage. Intercontinental boasts all of the above – the heated pool on level 25, a great gym and a wonderful spa with Japanese Bath facilities. I enjoyed a massage treatment and it was absolutely perfect after a day at Universal Studios.

Splitting Hairs

Some of the suites, although spacious, would benefit from a face lift. However the hotel represents a good price-to-quality ratio so no complaints from us.

The Lux Traveller Loves

Spacious Two-Bedroom Family Suites

Elegant Club Lounge with excellent food and service

Michelin Star dining

Excellent location

All In All

Fantastic hotel in a great location. Well priced. Offers exceptional dining and a fun bar for those who enjoy a good night out.