HOTEL THE FLAG Shinsaibashi

The room size is pretty standard for a Japanese hotel, but the location is absolutely fantastic! Turn left out of the hotel and in just 3 minutes you're right in the middle of Shinsaibashi (at the Miki Gakki instrument store). Turn right again and it's only a 1-minute walk to the Midosuji Line. Daimaru department store is also super close (to the left). Dotonbori is less than a 10-minute walk away, and there's an Ichiran Ramen right next door – it's so convenient for exploring! The hotel staff at the front desk speak good English, and there's free coffee. All the services were great. This is our go-to hotel in Osaka, we'll definitely stay here again next time! Highly recommend!

The room was more spacious than what I booked in Tokyo. The lobby is on the second floor, and communication in English was seamless. After seeing my passport, they even called over a Chinese-speaking staff member who explained the no-smoking policy in the room. The room was very clean, and the subway nearby was super convenient, just a 5-minute walk. The area is very bustling, with plenty of options for dining and shopping. The breakfast selection was also extensive. My only complaint was that the pillows in the room had a strange smell. I arrived late on the first day, and was too tired to ask for a replacement on the second, so I just made do.

Overall, my experience was quite satisfactory. Although the room had a floor-to-ceiling window that could be opened slightly, it was impossible to keep it open at night because of the food street right outside, which reeked of cooking oil. However, it was fine to open it in the early morning for some fresh air. Getting around was very convenient, with easy access to transport and shopping. Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi were only about a kilometer away. But the price was a bit high, considering the simple room decor and basic hotel facilities. Besides the good location, it really depends on your needs, as it's essentially just a place to sleep at night.

First off, the hotel's location is excellent, really close to Shinsaibashi. It's about a 2-minute walk to the main street and less than 5 minutes to the subway station. Second, almost all the staff speak English, and it seems like a lot of international guests stay here. There are also staff who can communicate in Chinese, which is very convenient. The soundproofing is quite good too. On the downside, the hotel facilities are pretty basic. Besides a bed and a table, there really isn't anything else in the room; it felt more like a hostel. Also, the trash can in the bathroom is tiny – so small that after just three or four pieces of tissue, it's full. When you're using the toilet, your feet practically touch the wall, and you can't even bend over.

This hotel is super close to Shinsaibashi subway station, which is incredibly convenient. After a long day of shopping, you can easily pop back to drop off your bags and then head straight back out. I highly recommend it! My only comment is that for families with kids, it seems like there are fewer family rooms available. However, one bed was enough for our family with a 10-year-old.