Waldorf Astoria is hands down my favorite hotel brand. This was my seventh stay at a Waldorf property, and I was so excited to see that they chose Osaka for their first location in Japan. The people here have a natural warmth and charm that feels different from the rest of Japan. It makes you feel like you’re at home, which actually fits really well with Waldorf’s image as a welcoming, luxurious brand. My partner and I stayed for four nights, just about a month after the soft opening, and overall, it was a fantastic stay. I already want to go back. Lobby The moment you walk into the lobby, you’re greeted with the scent of Vespoke—a really nice, fresh woody fragrance with a modern touch. I can still remember it clearly as I write this. The design is a bit playful for a Waldorf, with suspended glass terrariums and greenery that give the space a younger, more relaxed vibe without losing elegance. Room As a Hilton Diamond member, I was lucky to get upgraded to a corner suite with an amazing view of Osaka Station and the surrounding cityscape. Huge thanks to Blanche, the personal concierge manager, who was super professional and helpful. The suite itself had a modern design with subtle Japanese elements—definitely not the traditional Waldorf style, but I liked the fresh take. The room was spacious and beautifully done. I especially appreciated the full Aesop toiletry set, which even included skincare, mouthwash, and toothpaste. It’s rare to see that level of detail. Restaurants & Bars: The Peacock Alley here is probably the biggest I’ve seen at any Waldorf. It’s so large it feels more like a full restaurant than a lounge. The design includes these cool 19th-century-style street lamps inside, which is pretty unique. That said, the highlight for me was definitely the speakeasy, Cane and Tale. Every Waldorf has its own take on a speakeasy, and Osaka’s version was really fun. The menu is a book called Tales of Cocktails, and each drink has a story behind it, many with a local Japanese twist. Super creative. Jolie Brasserie is the French restaurant where breakfast is served. The head chef came from the Ritz-Carlton Osaka, and it shows. The French toast was crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside—seriously the best I’ve ever had anywhere. The Japanese breakfast was fine, but the Western items stood out more. I’d definitely recommend going with the Western options if you stay here. Fitness Center, Spa & Pool: The gym was a bit on the small side, and the equipment wasn’t super impressive for a luxury hotel. But I was pleasantly surprised to see the familiar fruity water in the gym, just like at other Waldorf properties. It’s not common in Japan, so that was a nice touch. The staff were also really attentive, regularly checking in to offer water while guests were working out. The spa was lovely, with a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room. The plush bathrobes and Aesop skincare made it feel extra relaxing. The pool was usually quiet, the water w
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