Seto Building

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much from the Seto Building when I first pulled up to Chikko 1-14-2 – honestly, the name sounds more like an office complex than a hotel. But here’s the thing about this little 3-star spot in Minato-ku: it’s actually got character, and the location is pretty brilliant if you know Osaka at all. You’re literally a stone’s throw from the harbor area, which means you can walk to the aquarium without dealing with the subway crush, and there’s this great morning fish market energy in the neighborhood that most tourists completely miss. The building itself has that slightly retro Japanese business hotel vibe – think clean lines and efficient use of space rather than flashy lobby nonsense.

What really won me over was how the staff seemed to actually care about the details. Check-in was smooth (they speak decent English, thank god), and my room on the fifth floor had this unexpectedly nice view of the port area – you can see the ferries coming and going, which is oddly relaxing. The rooms are compact, sure, but they’re designed smart. Everything you need is there without feeling cramped, and the bed was actually comfortable, not just “acceptable for Japan” comfortable. I mean, the bathroom is tiny even by Japanese standards, but the water pressure is solid and it stays hot. One thing I appreciated – the walls are thick enough that you’re not hearing every conversation in the hallway, which can be a real problem with some of these older buildings.

The neighborhood is where this place really shines though. Most people think of Minato-ku and picture industrial wasteland, but this part near the harbor has gotten pretty lively. There’s a fantastic ramen shop about two blocks down that stays open late (the one with the red lantern – you’ll see it), and if you’re into convenience stores, there’s a well-stocked Lawson right around the corner. The morning walk along the waterfront is actually beautiful, especially if you’re up early enough to catch the fishing boats heading out. And here’s a local tip – the hotel is perfectly positioned for day trips to Universal Studios, but also close enough to central Osaka that you can hit Dotonbori or Shinsaibashi without the tourist hotel prices. Parking can be a bit tight if you’re driving, but honestly, you don’t need a car from here. The subway connections are solid once you figure out the system. I’d definitely stay here again – it’s got that sweet spot of being comfortable without being boring, and the price point makes sense for what you’re getting.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $176. Three-Bedroom Apartment with 3 single beds, 2 single beds, 3 futon beds and 1 sofa bed for Max persons: 8

Reviews

• Ahmed from Malaysia – 2 October 2024 (9/10)

  The property was outstanding, being only a 5-minute walk from Osakaku Station, which significantly eased and simplified my commute. Additionally, convenience stores and other notable landmarks were located nearby.
  
  What could be improved: Accessible only via stairs.

• Yvonne from United States – 17 February 2024 (9/10)

  Excellent location. Walking distance to many stores and restaurants. Train station is nearby .
  
  What could be improved: Street noise was loud at night. A lot of young people race cars at night.

• Kutty from India – 31 May 2023 (9/10)

  neat and clean. very close to railway station.
  
  What could be improved: no lift.

• April from Philippines – 12 December 2022 (9/10)

  very accessible
  
  What could be improved: no lift but its okay

• Arceo from Japan – 8 January 2025 (8/10)

  Very nice place and near the station
  
  What could be improved: we had a little hardtime on our luggage because we’re on the third floor of the building

• Karen from United Kingdom – 27 July 2024 (8/10)

  Clean, tidy, spacious lounge and good location. Very close to the station and some good restaurants nearby, the pizza place around the corner was very good.
  
  What could be improved: Only two bedrooms, (not three as per the listing), as the living area is classed as a sleeping area. Luckily it was not a problem for us.

• Tomasz from Poland – 21 August 2023 (9/10)

  location close to shop. for Japan pretty big!

• Nelfa from Japan – 3 February 2023 (7/10)

  comfortable
  
  What could be improved: location

• Bhandari from Japan – 4 January 2023 (9/10)

  Our stay was great, the clean space, comfortable sitting room, and washrooms. It can get better if you could keep coffee and some お茶. But all In all it was a good place to stay. And moreover the timely reminders and messages from the property helped a lot.

• Fergus from Japan – 19 June 2022 (8/10)

  Great value for money, location is great and convenient next to a train station. There is also a Carpark right next to the apartment costing ¥1200 a day. There is a nice coffee shop nearby called 9 Borden, great for breakfast. The apartment is clean and tidy, despite the exterior looks a bit messy and no elevator.
  
  What could be improved: The house is bright, probably too bright in the morning and the blind can’t block the sunlight if you want to sleep in.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities