I have always been a big fan of the Aloft brand. As the sister brand to the luxurious W Hotels, Aloft provides the same ‘Sassy, Savvy and Space’ concept at a very economical and competitive pricing. In short, if you are looking for a ‘playful’ hotel, the Aloft Hotels are the ones you should be staying.
In fact, we had the opportunity to stay at a resort-themed Aloft Hotel in Langkawi Island, Malaysia, and you can check out our review HERE.
Aloft Osaka is the first Aloft brand hotel located in the West Japan Region, and only the second Aloft brand hotel in the whole of Japan, after Aloft Tokyo Ginza. Located in the Dojima Area and near the Dojima River, Aloft Osaka was reconstructed on the site of the former locally renowned Dojima Hotel – a popular social gathering place for the locals.
Aloft Osaka is only 7 minutes walk away to Osaka Umeda Station, and is within walking distance to the JR Line, Keihan Line, and the Osaka Metro.
First Impression
I took the Osaka Metro and arrive at Higobashi Station, and my walk to the hotel took about 7 minutes. It was a pretty leisure walk and you would pass by the Dojima river as well. Upon entering Aloft Osaka Dojima, I was impressed by the colorful and vibrant design of the hotel. Aloft Osaka Dojima aims to combine both the past and the future in its design.
The most notable design was a Daihatsu Midget – a highly practical small there-wheeled truck that was used to transport rice. It is indeed a real vehicle with just the engine removed. There is also a LED panel displaying the history of the Dojima area by using Ukiyoe, photographs as well as 3D computer graphics.
The lobby area also consists of The Warehouse – Aloft Osaka Dojima’s all-day-dining restaurant, as well as the W XYZ Bar, more on both later.
I especially liked the design of the lift area as well – makes you feel like you are a superstar.
The Room – Loft Suite
My stay at Aloft Osaka Dojima was in the Loft Suite, the highest room category in the hotel. With only 6 units of these suites in the hotel, it is sized at 51M² and can fit a maximum of 3 adults. As you enter the room, you are welcomed by a separated living area with a elevated dining table – which acts as your mini-bar area as well. Teas, Coffees, and bottled waters are complimentary. It also comes with a Marshall speaker.
Right beside the dining area, is a spacious living area with a sofa as well as a TV. Interesting to note is that the sofa is actually a sofa bed, hence why this room can fit 3 adults.
There is a walk-in wardrobe/luggage area that leads directly into the toilet. Separated from the toilet area was a double vanity, with full set of toiletries provided.
The shower area consists of a rain-shower as well as a huge bath tub.
A separated toilet area.
The bedroom has floor-to-ceiling windows giving me a stunning view of the Dojima area.
The view looks even better at night.
The Facilities
Aloft Osaka Dojima also has a self-service laundry room, as well as RE:CHARGE Gym, which operates 24/7
Breakfast was served at The Warehouse. It is a buffet style and has a combination of Japanese and Western offerings.
I also had the opportunity to try some of the food at The Warehouse during dinner time. I really enjoyed the food served and the service was top notch too.
I also had the opportunity to try out some signature cocktails at W XYZ Bar. All of the signature cocktails are original, and was inspired by the history and culture of Dojima area and Osaka. During weekends, live band performances are also available at night.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I enjoyed my stay at Aloft Osaka Dojima. The hotel brings a breath of fresh air in terms of service and design, but still pays homage to the history and culture of Dojima area. If you are looking for a fun place to stay, yet it is not far away from all the major attractions in Osaka, you should definitely check out Aloft Osaka Dojima.
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