GUEST HOUSE APPLE

Hotel Description

You know what strikes me first about Guest House Apple? It’s tucked away in this quiet residential pocket of Minato-ku that honestly feels worlds apart from the tourist chaos you’d expect in Osaka. I mean, you’re still close enough to everything that matters, but when you step outside in the morning, you’re surrounded by actual neighborhood life – locals heading to work, the smell of fresh bread from a tiny bakery around the corner, that sort of authentic Japan experience that’s getting harder to find.

The place itself has this understated charm that grows on you. It’s not trying to be fancy – it’s a 3-star spot, after all – but there’s something genuinely welcoming about how they’ve set everything up. The rooms are compact (as you’d expect in Osaka), but they’ve actually thought about storage in ways that make sense. Little hooks in just the right places, a desk that’s actually usable, and – this might sound weird – but the lighting is spot on for both working and winding down. I’ve stayed in plenty of places where you’re either squinting or dealing with harsh fluorescents, so these details matter more than you’d think. The tatami elements mixed with modern conveniences hit that sweet spot where you feel like you’re in Japan without sacrificing comfort.

What really explains that 9.2 rating though is how the staff treats you. Not in that overly formal way that can feel intimidating, but like they genuinely want your stay to work out. They’ll sketch out walking routes to places that aren’t in guidebooks, and honestly, some of my best meals came from their casual recommendations. The neighborhood has this fantastic kushikatsu place about six minutes away that I never would’ve found otherwise – it’s literally just a counter with eight seats, but locals line up for it. The walk there takes you through these narrow streets where you’ll see glimpses of daily life that tour groups never encounter. Plus, the train connections are actually more convenient than staying in the super central areas where you’re fighting crowds just to get on the platform. From here, you can reach Dotonbori in about fifteen minutes, but when you come home at night, you’re stepping into this peaceful residential rhythm instead of neon and noise. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re staying in Osaka rather than just visiting it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $100. Apartment – Ground Floor with 2 double beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Maria from Philippines – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  It was very clean, spacious and comfortable. It is like a home away from home. It is located in a mostly residential neighborhood that has a Family Mart and laundry services nearby; and quaint coffee shops within walking distance. One other main reason why we chose this property is that it is near Universal Studios Japan. We were able to get a free round trip private boat ride that only took a few minutes to get us to USJ!
  
  What could be improved: If you’re looking to go to shopping areas like Dotonbori, train stations, and other tourist spots, you’ll need to allot 30-45 minutes travel time by car or taxi.

• Sophia from Australia – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  The apartment is modern, so clean and spacious

• Hitesh from Australia – 21 April 2025 (10/10)

  Good location for Universal Studios Japan (USJ). Good sized accommodation, very clean, very comfortable, has all required amenities. Owner is very kind and helpful. Owner was also the driver for our ferry ride to USJ, and he kindly waited for us to arrive for our return boat trip in the evening when we were running late. Would highly recommend it.
  
  What could be improved: There are several steps to reach the room 301, and there is no elevator (lift) facility in the building, which makes it difficult to carry heavy suitcases.

• Michelle from Australia – 8 April 2025 (9/10)

  It was all really good. Clean, spacious, comfortable.
  The boat ride to USJ was a highlight.
  10min walk to Osakako subway.
  
  What could be improved: The only dislike was the traffic noise but nothing can alter that.

• Chris from Australia – 6 January 2025 (10/10)

  Key was available for us apon arrival, huge, spacious room easily accommodated our large family of 5. Two full bvathrooms and toilets. Location is excellent for the Osaka Aquarium and giant ferris wheel. The best part, BOAT TRANSFER to universal studios was a huge highlight (our host was the boat driver). Our host was very friendly and even made us some beautiful sandwiches upon departure. Highly recommended, will definitely return.
  
  What could be improved: The only downside (not the hosts fault) is that if there is a child stomping around upstairs at 5am, you will hear it!!!

• Amber from United States – 26 November 2024 (10/10)

  the communication with three host was quick, check in was easy. pictures of room matched exactly.
  
  What could be improved: nothing that comes to mind at all

• Lucas from United States – 29 October 2024 (10/10)

  The apartment was an amazing value overall. Situated in a quiet located that was actually safe during all hours, it was close enough to the aquarium and USJ plus a short distance to some great restaurants and all major convenience stores. The boat service offered to USJ was a great added perk and added to the experience, the boat operator was kind and helpful, and the views you on the boat ride during the day and especially during the night were amazing. The apartment itself was a great mix of traditional with modern and felt really cozy, with all the bathroom and kitchen amenities you could need for your stay. HIGHLY recommended if you are coming to Osaka to see the Kaiyukan or Universal Studios.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was everything I needed for my stay and MORE!

• Bell from Japan – 4 April 2024 (9/10)

  The room was spacious and well equipped. Attention to detail was appreciated in bathroom and kitchen supplies. It’s very nice to have a few common items like salt and sauces. It seems this host thought of everything! Linens and beds were very comfortable. In particular, the boat ride taxi to USJ dock was so helpful and was a fantastic feature as was the Tuk tuk transport from the wonderful Aquarium and Mall area. Highly recommend.
  
  What could be improved: Very little to dislike. The building sways a little when large trucks drive by. There was a slight stuffy odor in the house that easily cleared with opening windows or turning on the air.

• Higgins from Australia – 29 December 2023 (9/10)

  Loved the space, beautifully decorated and tidy. Helpful staff and free tuktuk ride was fun. Extremely comfortable beds
  
  What could be improved: Location wasn't amazing in terms of how it looked, loud noise from trucks and cars on the road outside.

• Mae from Japan – 12 November 2023 (9/10)

  It was so clean, spacious and comfortable. The staff was so kind.
  
  What could be improved: Maybe the stairs.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities