In my wanderings through Osaka, this budget hotel near Tennoji proved to be a reliable find. The rooms, while compact (as expected in Japan), deliver the basics with Japanese efficiency – clean beds, private bathrooms, and that all-important free WiFi.
You’re just a 14-mile hop from Itami Airport, and the neighborhood brims with temples and local life.
The downsides? The structured bathing times can catch first-timers off guard (typical in smaller Japanese hotels), and you’ll sometimes need to walk a few extra blocks to catch certain train lines. But don’t let that deter you.
This place hits the sweet spot for independent travelers who want a no-frills, clean base without breaking the bank. It’s especially good for culture buffs – you can walk to major shrines and Tennoji Park, then return to a dependable bed and a simple breakfast.
Solo travelers and couples watching their yen will feel right at home here. If you’re seeking luxury or spacious rooms, look elsewhere, but for a practical, well-located crash pad in Osaka, this fits the bill.
This hotel features in the top 26 hotels in Tennoji Ward, Osaka.
Good To Know
- The Smile Hotel Tennoji in Osaka is situated in a convenient location, 14 miles from Itami Airport and close to cultural and natural attractions.
- The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, free high-speed WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk for guest assistance.
- Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast featuring local and international cuisine, though there are no onsite dining options.
- The hotel is well-rated by guests for its cleanliness, comfort, and value for money, though some concerns have been raised about transit options and bathing times.
- The hotel welcomes children aged 6 and above, but does not allow pets or parties, and has flexible check-in and check-out policies.
Hotel Overview
The Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji lies within Osaka Prefecture, located in the Tennoji Ward of the city. Rated 7.8/10 based on 101 guest reviews, it’s a good-rated hotel situated 14 miles from Itami Airport.
Nearby attractions include several shrines, temples, and natural sites like Chausuyama burial mound and Tamade No Waterfall.
Guests praise the hotel’s convenient access to Osaka’s transport and local sights, as well as the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms.
However, some note limited public transit options nearby and concerns about gender-specific bathing times.
Convenient Location
Conveniently situated within Osaka’s Tennoji Ward, the Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji provides easy access to the city’s major attractions and transportation hubs. Just 14 miles from Itami Airport, the hotel offers a hassle-free starting point for your Osaka adventure. Nearby, you’ll find a trove of cultural gems, including the Horikoshi Shrine, Isshin-ji Temple, and Yasui Shrine. For those seeking outdoor recreation, Tennoji Park and the Chausuyama burial mound are within easy reach.
| Attraction | Distance (km) | Time (min) |
|---|---|---|
| Horikoshi Shrine | 0.4 | 5 |
| Isshin-ji Temple | 0.6 | 8 |
| Tennoji Park | 1.2 | 15 |
| Itami Airport | 22.5 | 35 |
The hotel’s strategic location allows you to maximize your time in Osaka, providing a comfortable and convenient base for your urban exploration.
Accommodation Details
Rooms at the Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji come equipped with essential amenities to meet guests’ needs.
Each air-conditioned room features a private bathroom with a bathtub or shower, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. Guests can relax in front of the flat-screen TV and work at the provided desk.
The hotel offers free WiFi throughout, rated at 9.7 for connectivity. A 24-hour front desk is available, and a buffet breakfast is served daily.
While the hotel doesn’t allow pets or parties, it welcomes children 6 and above, charging them as adults.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of the hotel’s central location, with easy access to local attractions and transportation.
Hotel Amenities
Guests at the Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji can take advantage of a variety of amenities. The hotel features air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and free toiletries. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property, and a 24-hour front desk is on-site. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast each morning. The hotel also offers non-smoking rooms and a convenient location close to popular attractions.
| Room Features | Facilities | Bathroom Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Air-conditioning | Non-smoking rooms | Bathtub or shower |
| Private bathroom | Free WiFi | Hairdryer |
| Flat-screen TV | 24-hour front desk | Towels |
| Free toiletries | Buffet breakfast | Toilet paper |
| Desk |
Dining Options
The Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji offers a buffet breakfast for guests each morning. The breakfast features a variety of local and international cuisine to cater to diverse tastes. Guests can enjoy a hearty meal before starting their day exploring the city.
The hotel’s breakfast is known for its freshness and quality, providing a great value for the cost. While there are no other dining options onsite, the hotel’s central location provides easy access to a range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries in the surrounding Tennoji Ward.
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Japanese fare or international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of dining options within walking distance of the hotel.
Nearby Attractions
Although the Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji is conveniently located, it’s surrounded by a variety of notable cultural and historical attractions that guests can easily explore.
Within walking distance are shrines like Horikoshi and Yasui, as well as the ancient Chausuyama burial mound. Slightly farther are the Isshin-ji Temple and the serene Tamade No Waterfall.
Guests can also visit the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art to experience the city’s artistic heritage. For a more lively outing, the Ichinoderaji Theater Club offers traditional Japanese entertainment.
With Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara within easy reach, the Smile Hotel provides an excellent base to discover the rich cultural tapestry of the Kansai region.
Guest Reviews
Based on the reviews, the Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji generally receives positive feedback for its convenient location as a good transport base to explore Osaka.
Guests appreciate the hotel’s proximity to the airport and local attractions. Plus, the rooms are described as clean and comfortable.
However, some guests have noted issues with the limited public transport options nearby and gender-specific bathing times.
The positive guest reviews highlight the hotel’s strengths:
- Convenient access to the airport and local landmarks.
- Clean and comfortable accommodations.
- Good value for the money.
- Helpful staff at the 24-hour front desk.
Policies and Practices
Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji’s guest-centric policies and practices aim to accommodate travelers’ needs.
The hotel offers flexible check-in from 2 PM to 12 AM and efficient check-out by 11 AM. Children aged 6 and above are welcomed, though charged as adults. Unfortunately, pets aren’t permitted, and parties aren’t allowed.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, providing flexibility. Guests can expect non-smoking rooms and complimentary high-speed WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hotel’s location provides convenient access to Osaka’s attractions and transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Gym or Fitness Center at the Hotel?
The hotel doesn’t have a gym or fitness center, but it offers a convenient location and basic amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a buffet breakfast to meet your travel needs without extravagant costs.
Can I Request an Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
The hotel generally allows early check-in or late check-out, but it’s subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Guests should contact the hotel directly to inquire about these options and any associated costs.
Are There Any Special Packages or Deals Available?
The hotel doesn’t seem to offer any special packages or deals, but guests can check with the front desk upon arrival for any current promotions or discounts that may be available to help keep costs down.
What Are the Options for On-Site Entertainment or Activities?
The hotel doesn’t offer any on-site entertainment or activities. However, it’s conveniently located near various temples, parks, and cultural sites, providing guests with plenty of options for exploring Osaka’s vibrant attractions during their stay.
Does the Hotel Offer Airport Shuttle or Transportation Services?
The hotel does not offer an airport shuttle service. However, it’s conveniently located just 14 miles from Itami Airport, making it easy for guests to arrange their own transportation to and from the airport.
The Sum Up
The Smile Hotel Osaka Tennoji offers a central and comfortable base for exploring Osaka. With easy access to key attractions, air-conditioned rooms, and a buffet breakfast, it caters to a range of travelers. While public transport options nearby may be limited, the hotel’s convenient location and well-appointed accommodations make it a budget-friendly choice for those looking to discover the vibrant Tennoji Ward and the broader Osaka region.