FDS Serene

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first pulled up to FDS Serene in Chikko, I wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star place tucked away in what’s basically Osaka’s port district. But you know what? Sometimes those unassuming spots end up being the real gems, and this place totally caught me off guard with its 9.1 rating that actually makes sense once you stay there.

The thing about Chikko is that it’s not where most tourists end up – it’s got this working waterfront vibe that feels authentically Osaka without all the crowds you get around Dotonbori or Osaka Station. FDS Serene sits right in this sweet spot where you can actually hear the harbor in the distance (which I found oddly soothing, though if you’re sensitive to ambient noise, maybe request a room facing away from the water). The staff here genuinely seems to care about getting things right – check-in was smooth, they actually remembered my name throughout the stay, and when I mentioned I was planning to hit up the morning fish market, the front desk guy gave me this whole rundown about timing and which vendors to check out. That’s the kind of local insight you just don’t get at the big chain hotels.

What really won me over was how they’ve managed to nail that Japanese attention to detail without making it feel stuffy or overly formal. The rooms aren’t huge – I mean, this is Japan, so manage your expectations – but everything feels thoughtfully designed. The bathroom setup is actually clever (separate shower and toilet areas that somehow don’t feel cramped), and they’ve got these little touches like really good reading lights and outlets exactly where you need them. The bedding situation is solid too – none of that scratchy hotel linen nonsense. I stayed during Golden Week when everything in Osaka was absolutely packed, and while I could hear the city humming outside, the rooms stayed surprisingly quiet. There’s something to be said for being slightly off the main tourist track – you get better sleep and the whole experience feels less rushed. The area around 2 Chome in Chikko has some fantastic little izakayas that locals actually frequent, and you’re still only about 15-20 minutes from the major sights if you know the train system. Plus, parking here is way less of a headache than anywhere central, if you’re brave enough to drive in Osaka. Honestly, FDS Serene feels like one of those places where the sum is greater than its parts – it’s not trying to be flashy or Instagram-perfect, but it delivers on the stuff that actually matters when you’re traveling.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $89. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Mohamed from Bahrain – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Everything was perfect the way it is, spacious and cozy, really enjoyed the stay
  
  What could be improved: Not having fresh cleaned towels everyday

• Mary from United Kingdom – 16 June 2025 (9/10)

  Location is good. The support staff were excellent. I did not receive the door entry code and check in code from Booking.com. I was panicking after reaching Osaka Station. Aoi san, a staff from FDS Serene who speaks English, was patient and kindly sent me the information. I am grateful to her. I had problem checking in with the tablet in the lobby and had to call the support staff. Ko san, another staff from FDS had kindly guided me through the process. The location is good. Room is ok. Support staff from FDS Serene are excellent!
  
  What could be improved: The toilet seat needs to be cleaned or changed.

• Eloise from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (9/10)

  Best accommodation we stayed in Japan! Very clean, comfortable, spacious and great facilities. Very good value. Good location – not central but very close to the train station.

• John from Japan – 27 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location for things like the 2025 World Expo, Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium, and Universal Studios. Everything you need for an easy stay with family.

• Travis from United States – 25 May 2025 (9/10)

  Great location for Osaka Expo and aquarium! Pretty much brand new and cute design.
  
  What could be improved: Was pretty small for a slightly taller than average American. But it’s a room just for sleeping so no complaints.

• Niki from Malaysia – 6 May 2025 (9/10)

  The amenities including cooking stove, washing machine and the close amenities to attractions and Expo 2025
  
  What could be improved: None

• Rayan from Japan – 4 May 2025 (9/10)

  The facility is so accommodating, big room and very clean
  
  What could be improved: The check in is too late and check out timing is too early

• Georgina from New Zealand – 30 April 2025 (9/10)

  Location was amazing! So close to plenty of amenities and things to do/see. There are a lot of great food options nearby and all within easy walking distance!
  This was our home base while we checked out Osaka and Kyoto including USJ. We ended up catching a taxi that was super cheap both ways for USJ. Close to the train station too which made getting around easy.
  Quiet neighbourhood which was lovely.
  The space is huge and very nice! The size is between a studio and 1 bed appt which was so nice to have plenty of space for my hubby and I to relax including a lounge area.
  We appreciated the kitchen facilities c
  Bathroom – amazing! Having a washing machine and a bathroom with full services including a function to dry clothes quickly was so handy.
  
  What could be improved: The bed and couch were both a bit hard but not a biggy for us. We did appreciate having a lot of pillows!

• Douglas from United States – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  Very good location for Expo. Also it was a very quiet part of town.

• Jude from United Kingdom – 10 April 2025 (9/10)

  a fantastic property and would use again
  
  What could be improved: the code given to enter the property didn't work.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities