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OSAKA is Japan’s second largest city and one that has magnetism in spades.
For Southeast Asians, Osaka is an accessible hub from where to begin the Japan tour. Plus, rail access via the skinkansen service means that you’re in Tokyo in under three hours. For a day with beautiful temples in Kyoto, the journey from Osaka can take as little as 15 minutes.
In the heart of Namba is Swissôtel Nankai Osaka, a five-star hotel that sits right above Nankai’s Railway Namba Station which connects you to the city’s most-visited tourist attractions including out-of-town destinations like Nara and Kobe. As a bonus, it’s only the only hotel in Osaka that directly links to Kansai International Airport.
Namba is not short of city pleasures, one of the most iconic being Dotonbori, a river that runs through Osaka and fringed with shops, restaurants and of course, the now-infamous Glico Running Man. At night, the riverbank is illuminated with what looks like an unending display of neon billboards, making for excellent photo opportunities.
Source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
The hotel is also close to the Shinbaishi, a covered shopping arcade where you can buy just about anything. Trawl through displays of kitchen ware, secondhand kimonos, rare records, and video games, or if you prefer, simply watch the crowds roll by while eating okonomiyaki, a type of grilled savory pancake topped with squiggles of sauce.
After a long day of exploring, Swissôtel Nankai Osaka will prove as restful solace especially if you’re booked into the Swiss Advantage Room, a modern blend of work and play. Rooms come with free wireless internet, free access to the gym and pool, a Nespresso coffee machine, and an ergonomic desk chair.
Meanwhile, the Swiss Select Rooms offer impressive views of Osaka and can accommodate up to three people with installation of an extra bed. We also adore the Waraku suite, a sophisticated take on the Japanese ryokan with plenty of soothing blond wood.
To extend the ryokan feel, book in a treatment at the in-house Purovel Spa & Sport whether it’s a revitalizing anti-aging facial or a pampering massage to ease tired joints. All ingredients used at the spa are Swiss -inspired, made of natural elements, and applied with signature Japanese hospitality.
Source: Swissôtel Nankai Osaka
While Osaka is something of a culinary haven, the hotel’s in-house restaurants too are impressive if you don’t feel like stepping out. Hana-Goyomi is an elegant space that takes pride in Kyoto-style kaiseki meals, Minami is a fast-paced teppanyaki restaurant and especially great for the kids, and Tavola36 is on the hotel’s top floor is a glitzy entry for a special occasion.
For a drink or three, The Lounge is where you want to be seen with a champagne flute. In the afternoon, pair your tipple with high-tea. For a casual beer, Nambar 10 is a sports bar where your favorite team and a cold one go hand in hand – the perfect cap to a whirlwind stay in Osaka.
The post Swissôtel Nankai Osaka: A smack-in-the-city stay for a holiday in Osaka appeared first on Travel Wire Asia.
Source: travelwireasia.com