Sakurajima Building

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about the Sakurajima Building – it’s not going to blow you away with fancy lobbies or Instagram-worthy infinity pools, but honestly? That’s kind of the point. This three-star spot sits right in Sakurajima, which most tourists completely overlook, and that’s actually their loss. You’re literally on this little island (well, former island) that’s connected to mainland Osaka, and while everyone else is fighting crowds in Dotonbori, you’re in this surprisingly quiet pocket that feels almost residential.

The building itself is pretty typical for this part of Osaka – nothing flashy, but solid and clean in that reliable Japanese way. What really got me was how the staff just… knew things. Like, they didn’t just hand me a generic tourist map, they actually marked up the good ramen spot two blocks over that doesn’t have English signage, and told me which train car to get on for easier transfers to Namba. The rooms are smaller than what you’d get in a Western hotel – I mean, this is Japan, so no surprises there – but everything works perfectly and the beds are surprisingly comfortable. The bathroom had one of those electronic toilet seats that took me three tries to figure out, but once I did, well, you know how that goes.

Here’s what I didn’t expect: the location is actually brilliant if you’re planning to hit up Universal Studios Japan, because you can walk there in about fifteen minutes instead of dealing with the packed trains from central Osaka. But even if theme parks aren’t your thing, there’s something really nice about staying somewhere that feels more like a neighborhood than a tourist zone. I’d hear actual families going about their daily routines, kids heading to school, that sort of thing. The 8.4 rating makes total sense once you realize this place delivers exactly what it promises without any pretense. Sure, the elevator is a bit slow and the English signage could be better, but the value is solid and you’re getting an authentic slice of how regular Osaka actually functions. If you’re the type who’d rather discover a hidden yakitori joint than wait in line for the famous ones, this might be your speed.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $248. Three-Bedroom House with 2 double beds, 2 × 1 double bed and 1 futon bed for Max persons: 9
• Estimated price from: $322. Three-Bedroom House with 2 × 2 double beds, 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 11

Reviews

• Chris from Japan – 22 December 2024 (8/10)

  Is basic , very clean , good value for money and really close to USJ
  
  What could be improved: There isn’t a lounge or space to sit as a group but we knew that before booking and where there for USJ so didn’t spend too long at the house

• Kieran from Australia – 17 November 2024 (8/10)

  Conscience to USJ

• Amanda from United States – 17 November 2024 (7/10)

  Very close to subway and universal. Beds were decent. Very tight for average sized people.
  
  What could be improved: No living space to hang out in. Just the bedrooms.

• Claudene from Guam – 5 July 2024 (8/10)

  Close to train station, convenient store and Universal.
  
  What could be improved: Stairs to 2nd floor steep. Wish there were couple more folding chairs in order to be able eat in kitchen. We had to take turns eating a meal at the table or stand at kitchen counter. New neighbors that arrived day before we left were very loud.

• Finarose from Philippines – 19 June 2024 (9/10)

  The location-if you plan a trip to USJ but on a budget with group of friends,this home is perfect for 9 people.Very neat and convenient with ATM and 7 Eleven nearby.Umbrellas were provided also to use while staying.Very good heating system for water,2 toilets is advantageous.
  
  What could be improved: There was no weighing scale and flat iron for clothes.Although it is not my intention to press clothes,but since I washed them-the washing machine was only set for spin and dry and the clothes were damp bec.of the rainy weather.

• Bernard from Malaysia – 16 February 2024 (8/10)

  The location – we intended to go to Universal Studios and it was very easy to get there from the property!
  
  What could be improved: We didn't have enough space for the family to dine, which is understandable due to the size of the space.

• Jacqui from Australia – 5 October 2023 (9/10)

  For a family with teenagers, this accommodation was great as both could have their own room. It was very convenient for getting to and from USJ as we had a 2 day pass. Much cheaper than the hotels next to the park-one train stop away.
  Very clean. Good bathroom. Up and downstairs toilet. Easy check-in. 7/11 nearby but not much else. Quiet street.

• Lee from Malaysia – 3 June 2023 (9/10)

  The owner of the property are good well behave and sending instruction how to manage the key , so no worry ,there is a simple way , owner a better which good communication and manage well for me to check in advance for luggage only , already help me more . Worth to have a pleasure with and stay , room are big enough ,kids are happy with the snoopy decoration almost everything , clean and all well prepare !
  
  What could be improved: Maybe its the time to renovate the floor little saggy .. soft

• Joan from Australia – 29 April 2023 (9/10)

  Great location for Universal theme park and an easy walk from the station. Plenty of room for a large family.

• Lauren from United States – 7 April 2023 (9/10)

  The beds were actually comfortable! Best sleep while traveling in Japan. The location was perfect for going to Universal.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities