Discover old-world charm amidst the urban pulse of Osaka, Japan

Tatler heads into the heart of Midosuji for two nights at The St. Regis Osaka

In the ever-thrumming heart of Japan, Osaka stands as a city of contradictions: age-old traditions dancing with the high-tempo beats of modernity. It's a living embodiment of Japan's urban spirit. As the world resumes its adventures, our path is drawn to a beacon of luxury, The St. Regis Osaka, which—much like the city itself—whispers stories of yesteryears while offering the sleek allure of today. Read on as we chronicle our stay in this highrise of grandeur, ensconced in the central district of Midosuji.

First impressions

Photo 1 of 2 The entrance of The St. Regis Osaka

Photo 2 of 2 The reception area

At first glance, approaching The St. Regis Osaka is like revisiting an old classic film—grand and sepia-toned. Despite certain architectural nods to its golden years, the hotel bustles with an international vibe, courtesy of its polyglot staff. Its prime location is an open invitation to the city’s bustling streets that are brimming with remarkable dining and shopping experiences, keeping one anchored to the city's pulse. And yet, within its confines, there's a world of luxury waiting to be discovered. As for the views, they’re the stuff of brooding film noir scenes, casting a melancholic glow over the sprawling cityscape below.

Do not disturb

Photo 1 of 3 The Grand Deluxe King Room

Photo 2 of 3 The marble bathroom and bathtub

Photo 3 of 3 You may ask your personal butler to press two garments per day

Much like the elegant lobby, the living quarters here are a sophisticated affair. The Skyline Grand Deluxe King Room, in particular, is comfortable and spacious. There are some modern touches, from high-speed Wi-Fi to USB ports, interspersed with old-world elegance including a walk-in closet, a sleek marble bathroom with a bathtub and double vanities, and a porthole for you to leave garments for your personal butler to press. It’s a splendid experience, cushioned by the comforting embrace of silence thanks to the room’s soundproof floor-to-ceiling windows.

Bells and whistles

Photo 1 of 4 Welcome drinks prepared by your personal butler

Photo 2 of 4 The eButler service is but an email away

Photo 3 of 4 The Sothys Spa

Photo 4 of 4 The fitness centre

The famed St. Regis Butler Service is less a service and more a masterclass in pampering. It's a time-honoured ritual, perfected over a century, of anticipating your every whim, whether it’s a freshly pressed shirt or a morning jolt of caffeine. And for those digitally inclined, the eButler is but an email away, ensuring the world remains at your fingertips.

The 14th floor houses the Iridium featuring Sothys Spa—a sanctuary of rejuvenation. In the urban heart of Osaka, it offers solace to weary souls and bodies. And for those who lean towards physical invigoration, a well-appointed fitness centre awaits.

Wine & Dine

Photo 1 of 5 Teppanyaki Wajo

Photo 2 of 5 Wajo makes the most out of local, regional and seasonal ingredients

Photo 3 of 5 Enjoy The St. Regis Bar’s signature Shogun Mary

Photo 4 of 5 French bistro Le d'Or

Photo 5 of 5 Italian restaurant La Veduta

There are six options for dining at The St. Regis Osaka. The Western offerings, from the French bistro charm of Le d'Or to the Northern Italian delights of Restaurant La Veduta, are dependable. However, it's Teppanyaki Wajo that truly steals the show. Embodying the Azuchi-Momoyama period's tea ceremony culture, it serves as a culinary theatre where the chef crafts dishes using the slow and low method with seasonal ingredients, each a crescendo in a play of textures and flavours. Swift, knowledgeable and friendly service make this a worthwhile dining experience alone. Thereafter, The St. Regis Bar’s signature Shogun Mary, a delightful twist on a beloved classic, tantalises with zesty yuzu, fiery wasabi, and rich soy sauce, providing the perfect denouement to a day well spent.

Until next time

Above The view from the hotel

Leaving The St. Regis Osaka feels like the end of a gripping novel; the allure of Osaka's streets and its vibrant spirit is a reminder of chapters yet to be explored. The hotel’s unique blend of traditional glamour and contemporary luxury attracts travellers of all kinds, from young families to seasoned globetrotters. But, whether it’s the allure of Japan’s timeless elegance or the very essence of The St. Regis hospitality that appeals most, one thing is certain: like a thrilling storyline, it beckons you to return for just one more page.

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Hotel review The St. Regis Osaka Osaka Japan