When Hilton created their luxury series named after the man himself, Conrad Nicholson Hilton, we knew it was going to be something special. The Conrad Osaka certainly did not disappoint.

First impression

Located along the river in Kita Ward in the CBD stands the impressive silhouette of The Conrad Osaka, with an unassuming street entrance where guests are ushered into the lift by besuited and attentive staff.

The true scale of the hotel is not revealed until guests step out into reception on level 40 where towering glass windows provide a breath-taking panoramic view of the city.

The visual theatre continues a few steps around the corner as you’re met with a series of gigantic sculpted bubble installations and shimmering streams of ribbons that cascade from the ceiling. All this before you even reach reception!

Despite being filmed in Tokyo and not Osaka, Sofia Coppola fans will feel transported into the dreamlike world of ‘Lost in Translation’ taking in the vast and glittering city from lofty heights.

Location

Conrad Osaka is perfectly situated near prominent businesses, historical attractions, Japanese cuisine and exciting entertainment.

The hotel is on the inner-city island of Nakanoshima – known for its architectural remnants, culture and art – and guests will find art installations as well as iconic Japanese colours of red and black throughout the hotel.

The hotel is also directly connected to the Higobashi and Watanabebashi subway stations for easy travel to Osaka Airport (ITM) in 15 minutes and Kansai Airport (KIX) in 50 minutes.

The room

The room reviewed was the Deluxe King Suite, as the name suggests it was indeed both deluxe and kingly.

The sweeping views of the city continue into the guest suites, with high windows providing an inspiring snapshot of Osaka’s hustle and bustle below.

A great feature is the jacuzzi style spa bath; the perfect perch to enjoy an ice-cold Asahi and watch a movie. If that isn’t luxury, we’re not sure what is.

Breakfast with a view

What better start to the day then a delicious breakfast amongst the clouds at The Conrad’s breakfast buffet, aptly named ‘Atmos Dining’.

The Conrad offers a refined selection of Western and Japanese breakfast items, as well as fresh pancakes and waffles freshly cooking on the grill. Wash it down with some freshly brewed coffee and a selection of fresh juices.

Take a dip

A must-do for your stay here is a few laps or a leisurely float in the exquisite pool, similarly miles above the city, the perfect spot to clock in some exercise or recline with a book.

Hot tip!

Be sure not to leave Osaka without trying their famous local delicacy, the Okonomiyaki pancake. A savoury wheat-based pancake made with cabbage and a mix of either meat or seafood and drizzled with a generous amount of Kewpie mayonnaise and tonkatsu sauce (the Japanese answer to BBQ sauce).

Of a similar ilk and not to be missed are the Takoyaki Octopus balls. Made from a batter and cooked en masse on a big moulded skillet you can find these delicious morsels sizzling away on every corner.