Waqoo Shitaderamachi

A very unique, calming and beautiful stay in what can be crazy (but wonderful) Osaka. From the moment you walk through the noren, everything feels calm and relaxing - the design of the space has been very thoughtful and well executed. Even to the point that I normally dislike incense, but the smell when you walk in is lovely (maybe all my friends had nasty incense over the years!). The rooms are really lovely - I'm not quite sure what a traditional Japanese room would like like, but in my Australian mind I like to think it is like this including (what I would define as) the slightly raised futon (not going to claim accuracy for my terminology!!). The room size is also excellent - one of the larger in Japan that I've had - not huge but just that wee bit more. I love the pyjama thing in Japanese hotels - plus they had 'toe socks' the traditional socks with the split after the big toe. And of course, staff were amazing - kind and helpful at every interaction. I would happily stay here again - a beautiful space, and great value for money.

This was a unique experience. Since it is a buddhist hotel, you can enjoy a session of guided meditation right with the master from near by temple. You can also try your hand at copying the heart sutra and rewriting the characters using brush and ink. The rooms have an option for a pleasant and calming music. The staff were simply amazing. They were extremely friendly and kind, ready to help with whatever you needed. Breakfast was great, tho it might not be for everyone, as it is exclusively vegetarian dishes due to the buddhist belief of not eating meat or fish. But I can only praise the breakfast and the staff preparing it, they were probably the kindest people I met so far in Japan. Overall a great experience, I would be honored to stay at this place again some time in the future.

This hotel is absolutely gorgeous and was a pleasure to stay in. All of the staff are extremely kind and helpful, especially the morning staff who prepare the most incredible vegan breakfast each day. The room is perfectly clean and very comfortable. We loved the tatami flooring. Osaka was our favorite destination during our Japan trip, largely in part to how wonderful this hotel was. I will absolutely be staying here again when I come back to Osaka!

We like the smell of the incense they always put on. It is so calming.. In every room they provided guest with book (in english, korean, and japanese) about the teaching of Buddha and I personally enjoy reading the book. The location is also amazing. For us, it's walking distance to the dotonburi (we walk a lot!), and also that famous market near Hitachi tower.

Excellent place to stay in Osaka. The room was clean and of decent size. Breakfast was delicious even for now vegetarians like myself. The Japanese philosophy and aesthetic of the hotel was also a wonderful touch. But I think the best part is the hospitality and friendliness of the staff. They were a big help in locating a package that was supposed to be delivered to the hotel. Despite some language barriers, they knew how to navigate around. Definitely worth returning!