The Only View – Self Check-In Only

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first saw “The Only View” and that whole self check-in thing, I was a bit skeptical. But this little place in Ebisuhigashi actually surprised me in the best way possible. You know that feeling when you stumble onto something that just works, even though it shouldn’t on paper? That’s exactly what happened here.

The location is what really sold me, honestly. You’re right in the heart of Naniwa-ku, which means you can literally walk to Shinsekai in about ten minutes – and I mean the real Shinsekai, not just the touristy bits everyone talks about. There’s this incredible ramen joint called Kinryu that’s open 24/7 just a few blocks away, and trust me, you’ll want to know about that after a long day of wandering around Osaka. The self check-in process was actually smoother than I expected (though I did panic for like two minutes when I couldn’t figure out the keypad – turns out I was overthinking it). Once you get the hang of it, there’s something oddly liberating about not having to make small talk with front desk staff when you roll in at midnight covered in takoyaki sauce.

What really gets me about this place is how it nails that sweet spot between being affordable and not making you feel like you’re roughing it. The rooms aren’t huge – I mean, we’re talking about Osaka here, so manage your expectations – but they’re thoughtfully designed. The bed was actually comfortable, which is more than I can say for some pricier places I’ve stayed. And honestly? The view they’re talking about in the name isn’t just marketing fluff. Depending on which room you get, you can see glimpses of the city that remind you why you came to Japan in the first place. There’s something about watching the early morning light hit those densely packed buildings that just hits different, you know?

The neighborhood comes alive at night in ways that surprised me. You’ll hear the distant hum of pachinko parlors and the occasional drunk salaryman singing karaoke, but it’s not obnoxious – more like the soundtrack of real Osaka life. During the day, it’s actually pretty quiet, especially if you’re someone who needs to catch up on sleep or work remotely for a bit. The WiFi held up fine for video calls, which honestly wasn’t something I was counting on. One thing though – if you’re the type who needs someone to carry your bags or arrange restaurant reservations, this probably isn’t your spot. But if you’re comfortable figuring things out and want to feel more like you’re staying in a neighborhood rather than a tourist bubble, this place gets it right. For what you pay, especially considering that 8.7 rating isn’t just inflated nonsense, it’s actually a pretty solid choice for exploring this part of the city.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $133. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 double bed, 2 × 1 futon bed and 2 double beds for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Raj from United States – 18 June 2025 (9/10)

  The most Spacious stay in Shinsekai

• Cameron from Australia – 24 May 2025 (9/10)

  Close to train stations, many restaurants food outlets near by. Everything we need for a family of 5.

• Mohd from Malaysia – 21 November 2024 (9/10)

  This accommodation is perfect in every aspect!
  
  What could be improved: Hardly found any

• Raj from United States – 13 June 2024 (9/10)

  I especially like the Location, spaciousness, easy access, easy check in

• Raj from United States – 23 June 2023 (9/10)

  The most spacious stay in Shinsekai. The large apartment easily accommodated my family of four including two small children. The apartment is literally steps away from ample dining options, a pharmacy and a Lawson's. I will book again with no hesitation

• Nur from Japan – 28 February 2023 (9/10)

  very spacious! complete with toothbrushes, towels and other amenities. easy access using code.
  
  What could be improved: it would be great if you prepare an english translation to use the remote and bathroom.

• Gerald from Australia – 18 May 2025 (8/10)

  A very spacious apartment in a central location, close to transportation, shops and restaurants. Generally clean with comfortable beds. The bath room is the typical Japanese home-style one, which was really nice. Very handy having a washing machine and drying rack as well.
  
  What could be improved: The awful drain smell coming from both the kitchen and bathroom sinks – easily fixable but had not been done before our arrival. We couldn't use the kitchen for cooking because the drain smell made us want to vomit.
  Also, the lighting in the bedrooms is super dark – the globes really need to be changed to brighter ones.

• Simone from United States – 13 May 2025 (8/10)

  The space was great, very roomy and bright with comfortable couch. The location was great, even in the busy are it was quiet. Except when there was a party on the roof deck during the day. But at night it was quiet.
  
  What could be improved: It looked at bit run down and overly used. It needs a bit more maintenance with chipped color on the doors and walls. There were no forks and no dish towels in the apartment.

• Tracy from Australia – 16 April 2025 (8/10)

  Location was amazing, price was un matched for what you got. That size accommodation is un heard of in Japan.
  
  What could be improved: Apartment is to dark, no ironing board or working vacuum or broom. But these items are fixable

• Andrew from Australia – 20 January 2025 (8/10)

  Location ideal
  
  What could be improved: Sticky floor in entrance for two days

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities