Where to Stay in Osaka in 2023 (Best Areas and Places)

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you have to visit Osaka. A vibrant city full of culture, that’s famous for its mouthwatering street food, various shopping options, and exciting nightlife. But, before you can explore everything Osaka has to offer, you first have to figure out where to stay in Osaka.

I’ve visited Osaka countless times; not only was Osaka my home base when I spent a year living abroad in Japan, but my mom was born and raised in Osaka. As a result, I consider the city to be my second home.

I’ve been traveling to Osaka ever since I was a child and have stayed in accommodations around the entire city; from Tennoji to Umeda. Needless to say, I have a fair bit of experience with most of the Osaka neighborhoods.

So, whether you’re looking for an urban oasis close to the action or something quieter but still easily accessible by train, I’ve got you covered. Within this post, I will outline the best areas to stay in Osaka for first-time visitors, for the best nightlife, for the coolest vibes, for families, and for those on a budget. I’ll also provide some of the best accommodation options, from chic boutiques to luxurious hotels and lively hostels.

Without further ado, let’s get into this list of the best places to stay in Osaka:

Best Areas to Stay in Osaka

Quick Look: These are the Best Areas to Stay in Osaka

Kita (Umeda): Best Place To Stay in Osaka for Your First Time

First up, if you’re looking for places to stay in Osaka center, then you should look at the Kita (Umeda) area. Considered to be the best neighborhood in Osaka, Umeda is located in the north of Osaka (Kita translates to north). The center for transportation and business, it offers a bit of everything: delicious food, great shopping, various museums, historic shrines, and tranquil parks.

I absolutely love staying in Kita (Umeda), since you can’t beat this area for convenience. Umeda Station is one of the largest and busiest train stations in Japan, with lines heading into Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. Being so close to this line saves so much time, and as a result, means you’re unlikely to get lost on any train transfers (which I’ve done multiple times on my trips to Japan).

It’s also close to some amazing shopping and dining options, and yet there are many quiet, spacious streets too, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. In all honesty, I prefer Kita (Umeda) over Minami (Namba) for this reason alone, as I’m not…