Family friendly hotels in Osaka

There is plenty of choice for family friendly hotels in Osaka, but how can you narrow that down and ensure you have the best trip? As always it is very much a matter of personal preference, in this post I break down the pros and cons of the main areas so you can pick what fits best with your family. I have also put together a list of well thought out accommodation to make the choice easier for you.

Osaka is a brilliant city filled with great attractions for families with all interests, in my opinion it should be an integral part of everyone’s Japan itinerary. Picking the right area ensures you have a smooth trip and maximises your time enjoying and exploring rather than travelling around, let’s jump into my guide to help!

Best area to stay in Osaka for families

Namba

Pros:

  • Central location makes this the best place to stay in Osaka for access to attractions like Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and Namba Parks shopping mall.
  • Good transport links via Namba Station, including connections to Kansai Airport and major subway lines.
  • Wide variety of dining options suitable for families.
  • Hotels with spacious rooms and connecting options available.

Cons:

  • Often busy and noisy, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
  • Few open spaces or parks for younger children.

Shinsaibashi

Pros:

  • Walkable area with shopping and dining options nearby.
  • Close to Dotonbori and Namba for additional entertainment.
  • Family-friendly hotels with quad rooms and apartment-style accommodations.
  • Shinsaibashi Station provides subway access to key parts of the city.

Cons:

  • Crowded, particularly in shopping districts, which may not suit families with small children.
  • Limited hotels with outdoor spaces or specific amenities for children.

Umeda

Pros:

  • Calmer atmosphere compared to Namba and Shinsaibashi.
  • Convenient access to Osaka Station for transport to Kyoto, Nara, and other cities.
  • Shopping malls like Grand Front Osaka offer kid-friendly dining and activities.
  • Some of the best hotels in Osaka with larger family rooms and connecting options.

Cons:

  • Fewer dining options compared to other central areas.
  • Farther from southern attractions like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi.

Universal Studios Area

Pros:

  • Suitable for families visiting Universal Studios Japan, with hotels located near the park.
  • Themed rooms and family-focused amenities such as larger suites.
  • Universal City Station connects to Osaka Station and Kansai Airport.
  • Less crowded in the evenings.

Cons: 

  • Limited dining and shopping options outside the theme park area.
  • Distance to central Osaka attractions, approximately 30 minutes by train.

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The perfect family friendly hotels in Osaka

Hankyu Respire Hotel

Twin beds with striped grey coverlets in modern room. Night cityscape visible through angular windows. Geometric carpet and wall lighting.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.6

Hankyu Respire Hotel is a fantastic family-friendly option near Osaka Station, making it a convenient choice for exploring the city. Its guaranteed connecting rooms can accommodate up to five guests, ideal for larger families or those with younger children who share beds. The rooms are modern and well-equipped, offering plenty of space by Japanese standards, with thoughtful touches like air purifiers and blackout curtains.

The hotel features an expansive garden terrace, a rare find in central Osaka, which is a lovely spot to relax after a long day. For dining, the on-site Grigliato Cuccina Italiana offers Italian and Western cuisine, with breakfast buffets featuring fresh ingredients and a mix of Japanese and international dishes.

Its location, just a 5-minute walk from Osaka Station, provides easy access to transport links, shopping, and attractions. 

Nest Hotel Umeda

Contemporary twin bedroom with grey walls and geometric wall art. Floor-to-ceiling window offers night city views. Modern furnishings in dark tones.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 7.8

Nest Hotel Umeda is designed with family comfort in mind, offering rooms that cater to families of up to five if you have small children. The minimalist, clean-lined interiors provide a relaxing environment after a day of sightseeing. Rooms are efficiently arranged, with compact yet functional layouts that include everything a family needs without unnecessary clutter.

The hotel is located in the bustling Umeda district, only an 8-minute walk from Osaka-Umeda Station, meaning it is very easy to explore everything on your list in Osaka.

While the dining options are limited to a simple breakfast buffet, the surrounding area has numerous restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to family-friendly spots. 

Westin Osaka Hotel

Luxurious twin bedroom with panoramic night city views through large windows. Mint armchair with footstool and wooden desk in warm lighting
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.6

The Westin Osaka Hotel offers a more luxurious option for families, with spacious rooms that accommodate up to five guests. Its design emphasises comfort, featuring Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds and large windows. Families will appreciate the option of interconnecting rooms, ensuring everyone has enough space to relax.

Dining is a highlight here, with three on-site restaurants offering Japanese, Chinese, and international cuisine. The breakfast buffet has a wide range, meaning there are options for even the pickiest eaters.

The hotel features a beautiful garden area and an indoor pool, giving families places to unwind after exploring. Located near the Umeda Sky Building, the Westin is slightly removed from the city’s busiest areas, while still being just a 15-minute walk from Osaka Station.

Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi

Modern family room with twin beds, wooden bunk bed, and dining area. Grey accent wall features crane artwork. Light wood furnishings throughout.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 9.2

The Mimaru chain in Japan often comes out top of the best family friendly hotels and for good reason. I always recommend these hotels as the first thing to check for families.

In keeping with the brand, Mimaru Osaka Shinsaibashi has apartment-style accommodations. Rooms are spacious and designed for functionality, featuring separate sleeping and dining areas, a rare feature in Japanese hotels.

A kitchenette in every room allows families to prepare meals, an advantage when travelling with young children. The dining area includes a table and chairs, providing a practical space for eating or planning your day.

The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant on-site, but its location in the Shinsaibashi area means you’re within walking distance of dining options, from casual street food to full-service restaurants.

The hotel also offers laundry facilities, which is helpful for longer stays and those with younger children. Shinsaibashi Station is just a 6-minute walk away, providing easy access to Osaka’s main attractions. 

Mimaru Osaka Namba North

Pokemon-themed room with Snorlax plush on bed. Walls decorated with Pokeball patterns and character artwork. Themed dining table set.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 9.1

Mimaru Osaka Namba North delivers the same family-focused experience as its Shinsaibashi counterpart, with spacious, apartment-style rooms. Each unit includes a kitchenette, giving families the flexibility to prepare meals. The rooms are cleverly designed to maximise space, with separate sleeping and living areas. Some rooms at this Mimaru feature playful decorations, adding a touch of fun to the stay.

While the hotel does not have its own dining facilities, the area offers a mix of traditional and modern restaurants, as well as access to street food like takoyaki.

Namba Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, making it a convenient base for visiting key sites like Dotonbori and the Kuromon Market. 

TOP TIP! I have written similar guides to help families in Tokyo and Kyoto

Book and Bed Tokyo Shinsaibashi

Capsule-style bed nook with white bedding, surrounded by built-in bookshelves filled with manga and travel guides.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 7.8

The most unusual option on my list, Book and Bed Tokyo Shinsaibashi offers a capsule hotel experience that’s family-friendly.

Unlike traditional capsule hotels, this one allows children, giving every family member their own pod. The pods are cosy and private, surrounded by a library filled with books, free to read.

The hotel does not offer on-site dining, but its location in Shinsaibashi ensures easy access to a wide range of options.

The minimalist design and quirky concept makes this one of the best Osaka hotels for families after something more memorable. Located just a 3-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station, it provides excellent transport links for exploring Osaka. 

Randor Hotel Namba Osaka Suites

Bright room with wooden floors and raised platform bed. Large green cushions, yellow pouf and cream curtains create casual seating area.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.3

Randor Hotel Namba Osaka Suites offers spacious suites tailored for families who need extra room to relax. Each suite includes a separate bedroom and living area, with both western and Japanese style rooms available. The rooms are contemporary in style, with clean designs that prioritise functionality over frills. Some suites even come equipped with private onsen baths, a rarity in such a good location.

The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant on-site, but the nearby Namba area offers plenty of options for dining, from family-friendly restaurants to casual izakayas.

Located about a 10-minute walk from Osaka Namba Station, the hotel provides convenient access to transport and nearby attractions like Dotonbori. 

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Japanese-style room combining tatami dining area with floral centrepiece and western bedroom. Wooden furniture and roller blinds.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.6

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka combines convenience and comfort, making it a solid choice for families. Located directly above Namba Station, it provides excellent transport links, including easy access to Kansai Airport and Universal Studios Japan.

Breakfast includes Western and Japanese options, and this hotel has a unique offer, kids under 13 eat free. The hotel also has an indoor pool and spa facilities, while the central location allows easy access to attractions like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi. 

Families benefit from guaranteed interconnecting rooms, triple rooms, and cots available on request. 

Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba

Corner hotel room with city views through large windows. Navy built-in storage, double bed, grey carpet and modern seating with brass accents.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.5

Mercure Tokyu Stay Osaka Namba offers quad rooms and connecting rooms, making it a practical option for families of four or more, or even groups of adults.

A standout feature is the inclusion of washing machines in each room, which is especially helpful for longer stays or families travelling with young children. The rooms are compact yet well-organised.

The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Namba Station, providing easy access to Osaka’s main attractions. While there is no full-service restaurant, breakfast is available, featuring a mix of Japanese and Western options. 

Centara Grand Hotel Osaka

Modern bedroom with abstract leaf wall art, white bedding and turquoise armchairs. Dressing area visible through doorway.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 9.0

Centara Grand Hotel Osaka combines luxury with family-friendly features, offering spacious quad rooms and connecting rooms for larger groups. The rooms are designed with a focus on comfort, featuring cosy beds and larger than normal rooms with well-organised layouts that give families plenty of space to relax.

Dining options at the hotel include several restaurants catering to different tastes. Families will appreciate the all-day dining venue with international and Japanese cuisine, alongside other specialty restaurants offering everything from Thai dishes to sushi.

The hotel’s central location near Namba and Shinsaibashi ensures easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment. It’s just a 5-minute walk to Nipponbashi Station.

Holiday Inn Osaka Namba

Twin bedroom with L-shaped grey sofa, black coffee table and patterned carpet. Two artworks add colour to white walls.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.0

Holiday Inn Osaka Namba offers practical accommodations for families, with rooms that can sleep up to four guests. The central location, just a 5-minute walk from Namba Station, puts you in the heart of Osaka’s vibrant dining and shopping. Dotonbori, one of the city’s most famous districts, is just steps away, offering endless things to entertain the family.

The hotel provides a breakfast buffet with a mix of Japanese and Western options. While dining options within the hotel are limited, the surrounding area has countless family-friendly restaurants. 

Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi

Minimalist hotel room with double bed, walnut wood accents and built-in desk. Grey carpet and black storage units.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 9.3

Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi offers quad rooms, designed to fit four adults comfortably, provide ample space for families travelling with children. The clean, modern interiors are functional, with plenty of storage and comfortable bedding.

Breakfast is regularly called out as a highlight at the flag. While there is no full-service restaurant for dinner, the surrounding Shinsaibashi area has plenty of options to pick from.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station, the hotel offers easy access to nearby attractions, including the lively Dotonbori district. 

Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka

Indoor pool with wooden slatted wall and stone texture panels. Large window overlooks lit bamboo garden.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.9

Hotel Resol Trinity Osaka balances modern with a touch of Japanese elegance. The family-friendly suites accommodate up to six adults, making them ideal for large families or groups. The guaranteed connecting rooms provide added flexibility, ensuring everyone has enough space.

The standout feature here is the rooftop public onsen, where guests can relax while enjoying city views.

Breakfast is available on-site, offering Japanese and Western dishes, but the hotel’s location near Hommachi Station (a 4-minute walk) gives plenty of other options. 

Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba

Rooftop indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking night city skyline. Lanterns line glass barrier.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.1

Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba caters to families with spacious suites that can accommodate up to six adults. Guaranteed connecting rooms add flexibility for larger groups.

One of the hotel’s unique features is its rooftop sky spa, offering panoramic views of Osaka.

Breakfast is a mix of Japanese and international dishes. The hotel is conveniently located, just a 6-minute walk from Namba Station, making it easy to explore attractions like Dotonbori and Kuromon Market. 

Map of the best place to stay at Osaka

TOP TIP! If you are struggling to find availability on this list there are more options to consider

Best hotel options for Universal studios

It is very possible to do a day trip to Universal studios, however after a full day at the park, I recommend considering an options that requires less travel. You also tend to get bigger rooms for your money, which can make a difference for larger families.

I also strongly recommend getting your tickets in advance as you can often get a discount online, including cheaper fast passes

The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan

Hotel tower beside illuminated Universal globe at sunset. Pink and purple sky with palm trees lining entrance plaza.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.9

The Park Front Hotel at Universal Studios Japan is a favourite for families planning a visit to the theme park. Located directly in front of the entrance, you cannot get closer than that! The rooms are designed with families in mind, with bunk beds, triple and quad options that are spacious by Japanese standards. The décor features park-inspired touches that kids will love.

The hotel has multiple dining options, including buffet-style and à la carte restaurants, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The breakfast buffet is particularly popular, with a wide variety of dishes to suit all tastes.

Proximity to the JR Universal City Station, just a 2-minute walk away, makes it easy to explore Osaka beyond the theme park. 

Hotel Universal Port

Pink-themed lounge room with built-in seating, crystal chandelier and metallic pouffe. White storage units line walls.
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.9

Hotel Universal Port has spacious triple and quad rooms, perfect for families, featuring comfortable beds and ample space for kids to play. The hotel’s colourful design, inspired by Universal Studios, adds a fun touch to your stay.

Dining options include an all-day buffet restaurant offering a mix of Japanese and Western dishes. The breakfast buffet is highly rated, with plenty of options to start your day.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan, the hotel also offers easy access to Universal City Station for trips into Osaka. 

Hotel Universal Port Vita

Modern hotel buffet restaurant with curved serving stations. Warm lighting and industrial-style ceiling decor with striped floor
Source: Booking.com

Booking.com rating: 8.9

Hotel Universal Port Vita adds a bit of magic to your Universal Studios trip with its Minion-themed rooms, which are a hit with kids. These quad rooms are well-sized. Standard rooms are also available for families who don’t need to be surrounded by minions!

The hotel has an on-site restaurant. Its location, just a 5-minute walk from Universal Studios Japan, makes it incredibly convenient for families wanting to maximise their time at the park. 

FAQs about where to stay in Osaka

Is Japan family friendly?

  • Yes, Japan is very family-friendly. The country is known for its safety, cleanliness, and accommodating public facilities. There are numerous family-oriented attractions such as theme parks, museums, and cultural sites.

Can a family stay in a capsule hotel in Japan?

  • Many capsule hotels do not allow children, and those that do often have age restrictions. The exception to this rule is Book and Bed in Osaka, which is a great opportunity to create some memories and enjoy a capsule hotel as a family

Is it possible to stay in Osaka and visit Kyoto?

  • Yes, it is entirely possible. Osaka and Kyoto are very close, with frequent train services connecting the two cities. The journey takes about 15 minutes by Shinkansen or around 30 minutes by regular train.

How long should we spend in Osaka?

  • It is recommended to spend 2 to 3 days in Osaka. This allows you to see the main attractions comfortably, such as Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan. If you plan to take day trips to nearby cities like Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe, you might want to extend your stay to 4 or more days.

Final thoughts on Osaka family friendly hotels

You should npow be armed with everything you need to pick the perfect hotels to stay in Osaka with your family. Whether you are after luxury, or are keen to try a family friendly osaka capsule hotel, there is something for everyone to maximise this leg of your trip to Japan.

Be sure to make sure you explore everything Osaka has to offer, and go hungry, after all, it’s not got the name Japan’s Kitchen for no reason!