Why Stay?

Opened in August 2024, this high-rise hotel has set a new benchmark for international luxury in the heart of Osaka, offering a modern take on a traditional ryokan through the Four Seasons lens. Guests can expect Japanese hospitality with a worldly touch, and locally inspired calm matched by the ample space afforded by a top-tier global hotel brand. Sweeping city views from the well-appointed rooms and public spaces are another highlight.

The Neighborhood

Part of the new 50-story One Dojima development, Four Seasons Osaka is in a centrally located area a 10-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a short stroll from the Dojima River. At the narrow riverine island on the opposite bank, a giant space-age cat sculpture stands outside the Nakanoshima Museum of Art. The Dotonbori district (the place for Osaka street-food delicacies like octopus fritters and okonomiyaki pancakes) lies 10 minutes away by car. Also nearby are major sights like Osaka Castle and the Tsutenkaku Tower, the centerpiece of the nostalgic Shinsekai quarter.

The Feel

Quiet luxury, both in muted tones and the overall ambience, define the hotel, though it’s close to the main freeway. Contemporary artistic touches connect the Four Seasons to the surrounding locale: huge cream stone pillars in the lobby nod to the ramparts of Osaka Castle, while wooden latticework references the area’s maritime heritage. From the creamy hues of the lobby the decor changes to amber lacquer at the lift hall, reminiscent of traditional bento boxes. The interior is designed by Gwenael Nicholas, of multi-disciplinary agency Curiosity, based in Tokyo. The work of local artists and artisans features throughout, with painters and potters capturing the beauty of Japan. From a floating vase of weekly changing florist creations to a lacquer sculpture: Inner Cycle by Ishizuka Genta and the rippled stainless steel of the Thousand Mirrors sculpture by reception all highlight modern artistry. Look closely at the ‘wallpaper’ on the grand staircase to the ballroom and discover it is actually panels of intricately woven fabric from local experts Hosoo, which is also used to create cushions throughout the hotel.

Guest Quarters

Calmly welcoming spaces have been designed in subdued Four Seasons style, with neutral hues offset by spice-colored cushions. Every room has a memorable view, whether over the bright lights of the city or toward the mountains. Some also feature a window-side chaise longue. Dream-worthy beds are firm but inviting, with large square pillows offering support. The huge TV and coffee/tea making facilities (with an automatic temperature controlled kettle) make leaving for early meetings difficult. In the marble bathrooms, sizeable walk-in showers and a Japanese tub bring the local bathing culture to the fore. Toiletries from Spanish spa brand Natura Bisse add to the luxe factor.

Food and Drink

Breakfast service at all-day restaurant Jardin starts at 7 a.m.; it covers local favorites to Western dishes, fresh pastries, and daily prepared juices. If you’re on the go, grab a coffee from the lobby lounge or a pastry from Farine bakery. Two more restaurants and a bar await on the 37th floor. The striking black-and-silver decor at Jiang Nan Chun sets the scene for lunchtime dim sum or a dinner pairing menu, and at Sushi L’Abysse Osaka Yannick Alleno, French haute cuisine intermingles with expert sushi-making. Before dinner, settle in for a sunset cocktail at Bar Bota, which sits between both restaurants.

Wellness Factor

There’s no scrimping when it comes to the facilities at Four Seasons Osaka. An entire floor is dedicated to wellness, its curved interiors and soft edges creating a cocoon-like feel in the five treatment rooms, including one for couples. Featured local spa products include some by Kyoto-born skincare brand “chi to sé true.” A 16-meter indoor pool opens up to a panorama of the city from sunrise to past sunset, while there’s also a 24-hour gym. Japanese bathing traditions are fulfilled with both public and private ofuros, with signature bath rituals available in the latter.

Family Matters

Every room is big enough for a crib and safety amenities such as a bed rail guard and bottle sterilizer can be arranged. Bath products for junior guests aged five and under, as well as kids’ pajamas and bathrobes, are bookable in advance. The hotel also provides jigsaw puzzles, crayons, and coloring sheets, along with sweet treats such as cupcakes and chocolate. In-room tents are set up for children staying in the Premier Corner suite category or above. Jardin offers a complimentary menu for the under fours.

Sustainability Cred

Single-use plastics have been eliminated from the hotel. Sustainable and seasonal menus support local artisans and suppliers. A root-to-shoot approach in the kitchens turn imperfect fruits and vegetables into gelées, sauces, and stocks, while food waste is reduced through tracking and auditing. The hotel has a food waste reduction program in place, which includes training, tracking and auditing. Throughout the property single-use plastic water bottles, food and beverage containers, straws and utensils have been eliminated.

What Else?

A first for Four Seasons in Japan, the 28th floor at the Osaka hotel offers what’s called the Gensui experience. Here, 21 rooms and suites have been furnished in a contemporary ryokan style, complete with tatami flooring and low futon beds. The Sabo lounge on the same level is open only to Gensui guests; it serves bento breakfasts, sake, and traditional Japanese teas.

Reviewed by Alison Marshall

fourseasons.com
+81 6 6676 8697
2-4-32, Dojima, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan

Four Seasons Hotel Osaka

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