芋ノ宿ー大正

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first pulled up to 芋ノ宿ー大正, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect – the name literally translates to something like “Sweet Potato Inn,” which had me curious from the start. It’s tucked away in Taisho ward’s Sangenjahigashi area, and you know what? That actually turned out to be one of its biggest strengths. This isn’t touristy Osaka – it’s where regular people live and work, which means you get genuine neighborhood vibes without the crowds.

The hotel itself is a solid 3-star that punches above its weight. I mean, an 8.3 rating doesn’t happen by accident, and after staying there I totally get why. The rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed (very Japanese approach), and the staff clearly takes pride in the place. What really struck me was how quiet it stays at night, even though you’re still technically in Osaka proper. The Taisho area has this almost residential feel once evening hits – you’ll hear the occasional train from the nearby Hanshin line, but it’s more of a gentle rumble than anything disruptive.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before booking: the location is actually brilliant if you want to explore Osaka like a local. You’re about a 10-minute walk to Dome-mae station, which puts you on the Hanshin Main Line – that’s your direct shot to places like Amagasaki or even over to Kobe if you’re feeling adventurous. But more importantly, you’re right in the heart of what feels like “real” Osaka. There’s this fantastic little shopping street nearby where I grabbed some of the best takoyaki I had during my entire trip (and trust me, I tried a lot). The morning fish market action around here is something else too – if you’re an early riser, definitely take a walk around 6 AM.

The check-in process was refreshingly straightforward, and the front desk staff spoke enough English to handle any questions, though having Google Translate handy never hurts. One small thing – parking can be a bit tight if you’re driving, but honestly, in this part of Osaka you’re better off using public transport anyway. The hotel’s sweet potato theme shows up in subtle ways throughout (some artwork, a few menu items), which is charming without being over-the-top about it.

What really sold me on this place was how it managed to feel both authentically Japanese and genuinely welcoming to travelers. You’re not staying in some sanitized hotel bubble – you’re in a neighborhood where people actually live, where the convenience stores stock items for locals, not tourists, and where you might be the only non-Japanese person walking around. That’s either exactly what you want or it’s not, but if you’re looking to experience Osaka beyond the usual Dotonbori circuit, 芋ノ宿ー大正 puts you in the perfect spot to do it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $139. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 single bed, 2 × 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 6

Reviews

• Ruth from Australia – 21 November 2024 (8/10)

  The location was great, just over 7mins walk from the train station and on a quiet street. There are many small eateries, and convenience shops nearby. It was very clean and instructions were clearly communicated beforehand.
  
  What could be improved: The internet speed was very slow, and the washing machine was on the 2nd floor balcony. There was no shade over clothesline and our laundry got wet in the light drizzle.

• Brianna from Australia – 3 January 2025 (8/10)

  Great accomodation for our family of 4, was a home away from home and very comfortable. 3 stories and we were pleasantly surprised when we checked in. It’s in a more quiet residential area but we didn’t mind that at all, Taisho train station or the metro is a short walk. Convenience stores nice and close, we had a wonderful stay.

• Sophie from New Zealand – 20 October 2024 (9/10)

  Location was great, so close to Taisho station. Rooms were large and comfortable.

• Daniel from Japan – 13 August 2024 (8/10)

  The room was very affordable especially split among friends. Plenty of space for all of us. The fridge was also spacious for breakfast foods and coffees.
  
  What could be improved: The stairs were extremely narrow. And since the top room was 3 floors up it was a little scary to go up and down.

• Colgan from Ireland – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  The house was very spacious and spotless clean. A great place to have to come back to after daily activities and unwind.

• Elliyanty from Malaysia – 26 February 2025 (9/10)

  neat and tidy
  
  What could be improved: all good

• Socheata from United States – 31 July 2023 (9/10)

  how spacious the apartment was, especially the bathroom/shower, and the location of the building
  
  What could be improved: My friends couldn't figure out how to make the shower run warm. In the summer though, the cold shower was a blessing.

• Emil from United States – 28 October 2023 (9/10)

  Great location less than 10 minute walk from JR station and 5 minute walk to delicious ramen. Huge bedrooms and plenty of living space. Also has a washer/dryer for anyone needing to clean clothes.
  
  What could be improved: The bed on the second floor where I stayed was a it uncomfortable. Not sure how the one on the 3rd floor was but my daughter said it was nice.

• Mareva from Switzerland – 5 May 2025 (6/10)

  This 3 story house is in a residential rather quiet neighborhood. A few minutes away from taisho station. The beds were comfortable. We picked this place because it offered a cot for our baby as well as a high chair.
  
  What could be improved: The bathroom was moldy and a bit smelly. It could use a refurbishment. All light fixtures did not work in the room on the 2nd floor. We could have used a night stand 🙂

• Anonymous from Australia – 22 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very comfortable space, everything that we needed was supplied and considered. As a large family we had quite a bit of rubbish that we needed to dispose of and they left clear instructions of how to do so. It was in a great spot only 5 minute walk from the train station. Very quiet neighbourhood.
  
  What could be improved: We couldn’t get the washing machine to work, but there was a laundromat just around the corner that was about a two minute walk so we weren’t too worried

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities