It’s time to ditch Dotonbori’s neon-lit chaos and throngs of tourists because Umeda is where it’s at. The sleek and recently rejuvenated district is easily accessible via Osaka Station and has seen a wave of shiny new hotel openings.
Among them, Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda stands out. It’s the first Canopy by Hilton in Asia outside of China and delivers on the brand’s signature hospitality with a refreshingly playful spin. Set in a glimmering high-rise, the hotel leans into local culture with cheeky touches – think takoyaki-inspired lights at the elevator lobby, a fully functional seesaw that’s a hoot for both kids and kidults and bright, bold artwork throughout the space.
What are the rooms like at Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda?
I spent a week in the 63sqm King Canopy Corner Suite, so trust me when I say that I inspected every inch. The interior takes cues from the Tai An tea room designed by legendary tea master Sen No Rikyu in the 16th century and leans into that minimal, clean-lined Japanese aesthetic with warm woods and an efficient layout.
I loved the floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the bedroom, flooding the space with light – and the twinkle of the nighttime cityscape as I laid down in bed. The rooms here are a far cry from the showboxes you typically find in Japan, ranging from 32sqm to 127sqm. And if you have a four-legged travel buddy, there are even pet-friendly rooms with space for your pooch to roam.
Service is equally impressive. Housekeeping pops by twice a day and even helped neaten up my shopping that I had strewn over the sofa. Nightly turndowns include a cup of chamomile tea and squares of mint dark chocolate, an unexpectedly charming touch.
What’s good to eat and drink nearby?
Start at Carbon Copy, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. Breakfast ticks all the boxes: eggs your way, flaky pastries, and Japanese staples like beef udon and miso soup. I especially appreciated the nods to Osaka’s street food scene, like crispy kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). For a midday pick-me-up, there’s Bean There for coffee brewed from Osaka roasts and locally sourced pastries. Come evening, head to Jaja Bar for cocktails (from ¥1,500 and without a pesky cover charge) and Osaka-style bar snacks. If you’re lucky, there might be a live music set on too.
The building also hosts plenty of other casual eateries, including a buzzy burger joint, a craft beer bar and a DIY okonomiyaki spot – because if you didn’t have okonomiyaki in Osaka, can you really say you’ve been to the city? And for any late-night cravings, there’s always Lawson’s.
What about the gym at Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda?
There’s no pool or spa, but the gym is more than decent. Expect TechnoGym equipment and all the basics for a full-body workout. If you’re a runner, download the Rungo app, where the hotel has curated scenic jogging routes, including a 10km round trip to Osaka Castle that I was tempted to attempt before succumbing to taking the subway instead.
What’s the area like around Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda?
Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda is located within the brand new Grand Green Osaka complex, which features a mall, Umekita Park and a water feature area that’s still in development. Here, major brands like Nike, Zara and Uniqlo rub shoulders with indie boutiques. You’re also steps away from Time Out Market Osaka, where 17 kitchens and two bars showcase the best of Osaka’s culinary scene under one roof.
Need a break from the skyscrapers? Just 10 minutes away on foot, Nakazakicho is an artsy enclave full of charming cafés, vintage stores tucked under railway arches and old houses repurposed into quirky shops and restaurants.
Why you should book a stay at Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda
If you’re after a hotel that’s chic, convenient and comfortable, then Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda ticks all the boxes. Its prime location directly connects to Osaka Station via a sheltered walkway; the spacious and stylish rooms offer a cosy home away from home; and you have everything you need at your doorstep from convenience stores to a variety of F&B offerings.
Address: 6-38 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0011, Japan
Price per night: From ¥40,000
Closest transport link: Osaka Station