Ryokoheya Tenrokukan

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of places in Osaka, but Ryokoheya Tenrokukan genuinely surprised me. It’s tucked away in Honjohigashi in Kita-ku – you know that quieter area that’s still close enough to everything but doesn’t have tourists stumbling around at 3 AM? The building itself has this understated elegance that feels very Japanese, if that makes sense. Not flashy, but when you walk in, you immediately know you’re somewhere that takes hospitality seriously. The lobby has this subtle woody scent – maybe hinoki cypress? – and the staff actually remembered my name after the first day, which honestly never happens at bigger hotels.

What really got me was how they’ve managed to blend traditional ryokan elements with modern hotel conveniences without it feeling forced or gimmicky. The rooms have tatami areas alongside Western-style beds, and the bathroom setup is brilliant – proper Japanese soaking tub but also a walk-in shower that doesn’t flood the entire bathroom floor (you’ll know what I mean if you’ve stayed in older Japanese hotels). The futon bedding is incredibly soft, though I should mention the rooms can get a bit warm in summer even with the AC – just something to keep in mind. The walls are surprisingly thick too, which is a blessing because you’re still in the city and there’s definitely some street noise during the day, but nights are pretty peaceful.

The location is actually perfect for people who want to experience Osaka without being right in the chaos of Dotonbori or Namba. You’re maybe a 15-minute walk to Osaka Station – I timed it because I’m obsessive like that – and there’s this amazing little ramen shop called Menya Saimi just two blocks away that barely fits six people but serves the best tonkotsu I had during my entire trip. The hotel staff clued me into that one, actually, along with a few other local spots that definitely aren’t in any guidebooks. They also have this small but thoughtful breakfast spread with both Japanese and Western options, though honestly, the miso soup and grilled fish made my mornings. I mean, there’s coffee and pastries too, but when in Japan, right? The only minor thing is that check-in can be a bit slow if you arrive during busy periods – I waited maybe 20 minutes on a Friday evening – but they offered tea and a comfortable place to sit, so it wasn’t really a problem. With a rating of 9 out of 10, you’d expect something special, and Tenrokukan delivers that through dozens of small touches rather than one big wow factor. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re staying with particularly gracious relatives rather than just occupying a room for a few nights.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $130. Holiday Home with 4 futon beds and 3 futon beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• David from New Zealand – 16 May 2025 (9/10)

  Clean, tidy, comfortable. Close to Seven Eleven and train station.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing to dislike

• Nataša from Slovenia – 11 May 2025 (9/10)

  It was a really nice experience a stay in a sort of typical Japanese home. We stayed on 6 different location while travelling around Japan and this one was without a doubt our favorite. It's great for the kids as there are some toys in the house that the kids can play with.
  The house is very close to the subway station but the host picked us up as it's a bit challenging to find it. It was a very nice surprise and we really appreciated it as the kids were super tired after a full day in Nara.
  The house was clean, with a kitchen, washing machine, small balkony where you can dry your clothes…
  
  What could be improved: Some additional plates would be appreciated, we had to combine few items when eating dinner. Just info for other travellers – there's no "western" table with chairs, this is really a Japanese home with a low table where you eat your dinner sitting on the floor. I wouldn't change it as it really adds to a perfect Japanese experience.

• Laukau from New Zealand – 28 March 2025 (9/10)

  I really enjoyed the ambience of the place. You can feel the culture staying in this holiday home apartment. Kitchen/bathroom/bedrooms/living area were well equipped with what anyone would need during their stay. To top it off the location of the place was spot on 10 minute walk to to Tema train station and a five minute walk to a closer one sorry I can’t recall the name but it’s near family mart.
  
  This place is located close to shopping mall and restaurants so you have so much to explore right outside the door step.

• Wu from Australia – 5 March 2025 (9/10)

  Very comfortable and clean
  
  What could be improved: A little small for 4 people

• Hamid from Malaysia – 2 March 2025 (9/10)

  Friendly host, a clean and charming Japanese house with a great local vibe. It’s tucked away from the busy areas of Osaka, yet still close enough to the city’s main attractions. With a convenience store nearby and a train station right next door, everything is easily accessible. An amazing stay, this will definitely be our go-to place whenever we’re in Osaka.
  
  What could be improved: The downstairs area is a bit cold, while the heater does its job, the floor isn’t heated, so your feet might get cold quickly. The main living hall is still comfortable, though nothing too extreme. Regardless, this is just a minor detail in what was otherwise an awesome stay overall

• Jana from Philippines – 26 December 2024 (9/10)

  Its like a legit japanese home. Its not big but all areas are very functional. Definitely way better than booking a room in a hotel
  
  What could be improved: Couldve been better if therr were more pillows for embrace.

• Yu from United Kingdom – 23 December 2023 (9/10)

  It is such a lovely and cozy apartment.

• Erwin from United Arab Emirates – 22 December 2023 (9/10)

  Very clean and near at the train station
  
  What could be improved: None

• Carlo from Switzerland – 10 January 2025 (8/10)

  Good location, it's next to a tube station plus plenty of restaurants and bar nearby. The area is quiet though. The house is nice, well equipped and comfortable.

• Liz from United States – 7 October 2024 (9/10)

  Great location, cute little 2 floor house very traditional. Close to train and walking distance from a market with so many stores. Host was nice as well. Washing machine worked very well and AC super strong.
  
  What could be improved: Just wish the towels and sheets were washed a better

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities