The Westin Osaka

With 30 floors, this hotel stands tall next to the iconic Umeda Sky Building, fitting right into the glistening skyline. Outside, there are water features and lovely gardens that make a tranquil first impression in this bustling city. However, its high-rise status is on par for the Westin brand, and the hotel lives up to the expectations that come with this business-friendly property. Several sets of glass doors lead into the lobby, and interiors embrace a blend of traditional corporate style and local, classically Japanese touches. The lobby is spacious and grand, with a huge glass chandelier hanging over a floral arrangement in the center. Ornate carpeting complements framed Japanese calligraphy, and antique wooden pieces are arranged here and there, adding even more class. There are a number of places to unwind here, including an extensive gym plus bars and restaurants, and the hotel works well as a self-contained place to spend time as a business or leisure traveler.

Located in the Umeda district of Osaka, this hotel is part of the modern Shin Umeda City complex that's also home to the iconic Umeda Sky Building with its floating garden observatory. Osaka Station is about a 10-minute walk from the hotel, or guests can take the hotel's free shuttle service. Osaka Castle is about 15 minutes away by car or 45 minutes by public transportation, and Universal Studios is about 20 minutes by car or 35 by public transportation. Osaka International Airport will take 20 minutes to reach by car or 45 minutes by public transportation. 

The hotel offers a variety of room types, including rooms on a ladies-only floor and traditional Japanese spaces. Decor is modern and clean, with soothing neutral color schemes, wallpapered accent walls, and stylish medium-tone wood furniture. Some rooms look a little more fresh than others, and the Executive Suite that we visited seemed a bit dated, with less attractive color palettes that off-set the elegant hardwood furniture. Amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, music players, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Westin's own Heavenly Beds are dressed in white linens and score solid marks from previous guests. Bathrooms also are modern, with black granite or marble countertops, upscale toiletries, magnifying mirrors, and hairdryers. Most have separate tubs and showers, and robes and slippers are provided. Some rooms, especially those on the corners, have exceptional views of the city. Suites add more space and sitting areas. Up to five people can stay in the traditional Japanese rooms, which are outfitted with tatami mats. These rooms also have traditional Japanese dining tables and cypress baths. 

This hotel offers a number of convenient features. A breakfast buffet with Western and Japanese offerings is served daily in the lovely Amadeus restaurant in the spacious atrium area next to the garden. The space is open, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing views of lush greenery outside. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner. Hanano Japanese restaurant features a sushi bar as well as teppanyaki, and the upscale Imperial Palace serves Chinese fare. There's also a lounge in the lobby and another bar. Room service is available and there's a pastry shop on-site as well.

The Westin Fitness Club has an indoor pool and whirlpool, as well as a sauna and a gym with cardio and weight training equipment. Unfortunately, there is a fee to use any of it. The long, narrow indoor pool is suitable for swimming laps, and large windows allow plenty of daylight plus views of the city. Lounge chairs are provided poolside, and potted plants are a nice touch. There's also a jogging track outdoors and an acupuncture salon on-site. 

The hotel's events spaces include a grand ballroom, a wedding chapel, and smaller spaces for more intimate gatherings. Guests staying in the Executive Suites get access to the Executive Club with free breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. There's space for up to 1,000 people in the hotel's large events spaces, which include a ballroom and wedding chapel. For those with their own chopper, there's a helipad as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property and a free shuttle runs to Osaka Station.