APA Hotel Osaka Higobashi Ekimae

Hotel Description

So here’s the thing about APA Hotel Osaka Higobashi Ekimae – it’s one of those places that does exactly what it says on the tin, and honestly, sometimes that’s all you need. I mean, the name literally tells you it’s right by Higobashi Station, and they weren’t kidding around. You step off the Keihan Main Line and you’re basically there, which is pretty clutch when you’re dragging luggage through Osaka’s summer humidity.

The hotel sits on Tosabori-dori, and you know what I love about this spot? It’s in Nishi-ku but feels way more chill than the chaos around Namba or Dotonbori. You’ve got the Dojima River right there – actually makes for a decent morning jog if you’re into that sort of thing. The building itself is typical APA style, sort of no-nonsense and compact, but the lobby’s got this surprisingly airy feel with decent lighting. Check-in was smooth when I was there, though I’d avoid arriving during the evening rush when all the business travelers are flooding in from Tokyo.

The rooms are… well, they’re APA rooms. Compact doesn’t begin to cover it, but everything’s laid out intelligently. The bed’s comfortable enough (firmer than what Americans are used to, but that’s pretty standard in Japan), and the bathroom’s one of those all-in-one units that somehow manages to not feel claustrophobic. What I really appreciated was how quiet it stays – you’d think being right by the station would mean constant noise, but the windows do their job. The WiFi actually works consistently, which honestly can’t be said for every hotel in this price range. One minor gripe though – the air conditioning can be a bit temperamental, so don’t be shy about calling the front desk if it’s acting up.

Location-wise, this place is kind of a hidden gem for exploring Osaka without the tourist crowds breathing down your neck. You’re a quick train ride to anywhere you actually want to go, but you’re also walking distance to some solid local spots. There’s this izakaya called Torikizoku just a few blocks away that’s perfect for cheap drinks and yakitori, and honestly, the convenience stores around here stock better onigiri than the ones in the touristy areas – probably because they’re catering to locals heading to work. If you’re planning to hit up Osaka Castle or Universal Studios, the train connections are straightforward, and you’ll save a decent chunk of change staying here instead of right in the thick of things.

Look, this isn’t going to be the most Instagram-worthy place you’ve ever stayed, but it’s solid, reliable, and the staff actually seems to care about doing their jobs well. For a 3-star place, it punches above its weight in terms of cleanliness and service. The 7.8 rating makes sense – it’s not going to blow your mind, but it’s not going to disappoint either. If you’re the type of traveler who wants a clean, comfortable base to crash at while you explore the city, and you’re not looking to blow your budget on a hotel room you’ll barely spend time in, this place delivers.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $95. Double Room with Small Double Bed – Non-Smoking with 1 single bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $105. Small Double Room with 1 single bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $115. Double Room – Non-Smoking with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $124. Economy Double Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $128. Twin Room – Non-Smoking with 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $138. Economy Twin Room with 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $286. Triple Room – Non-Smoking with 3 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $76. Single Room – Non-Smoking with 1 single bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $86. Economy Single Room with 1 single bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Gabriela from Ireland – 3 June 2025 (8/10)

  The location is quite central with two metro stations nearby. Loved the onsen onsite.
  
  What could be improved: The rooms are quite small.

• Liva from France – 30 May 2025 (7/10)

  the location
  
  What could be improved: the room cleaning was not every day

• Karen from Australia – 27 May 2025 (8/10)

  Right near subway

• James from United States – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Amazing view overlooking the river. Friendly staff, ideal location
  
  What could be improved: The restaurants on the roof and ground floor weren’t open.

• Sebastian from Japan – 11 May 2025 (8/10)

  The room was very clean and it had good ammenities.
  
  What could be improved: A little bit too small.

• Kris from Australia – 9 May 2025 (7/10)

  The location is the most convenient and close to major stations.
  
  What could be improved: Too crammed for comfort. Very tiny room. Not much room for our luggage.

• Laura from Romania – 5 May 2025 (8/10)

  The metro station was in front of the hotel.
  
  What could be improved: The room was indeed small but this is something common in Japan.

• Burgos from Hong Kong – 26 April 2025 (9/10)

  The location is very convenient and the hotel has everything you need.
  
  What could be improved: The check-out should be at least at 12:00 pm

• Scott from United Kingdom – 21 April 2025 (8/10)

  The bed was comfortable and the laundry facilities were very helpful. With train lines nearby it was easy to get around the city
  
  What could be improved: The location wasn’t great for nearby restaurants at the weekend

• Juhee from Australia – 21 April 2025 (9/10)

  What could be improved: Small Laundry with poor drying. Extra drying option with additional money still didn’t dry my clothes.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities