Waldorf Astoria has arrived in Japan. Marrying New York style with Japanese soul, Waldorf Astoria Osaka – which opened in April – is a celebration of tradition and modernity in a sought-after sector of the country’s culinary capital and vibrant “second city”.

The hotel occupies floors 28 to 38 of the Osaka Grand Green development in central Umekita Park, granting spectacular panoramas of the city skyline from every angle – something acclaimed designer Andre Fu took full advantage of in his vision for the guest rooms with their expansive room-height windows. Looking out, the windows display jaw-dropping views of Osaka Bay and the city’s glittering façades; looking in, they flood the space with natural light, showcasing Fu’s masterful blend of Art Deco opulence and authentic Japanese craftsmanship. They also enhance the sense of volume and spaciousness, but this is not an optical illusion: the 252 rooms and suites at Waldorf Astoria Osaka are the most generously sized accommodations in all of the city.

Superlatives are also in order when describing the culinary repertoire. As a new outpost of one of the world’s most elite brands in one of its most food-forward cities, expectations were lofty for the hotel dining programme. Waldorf Astoria Osaka rose to meet them. 

A particular standout is Tsukimi, where exquisite Japanese delicacies like Tajima beef are skilfully prepared under the guidance of Chef Junichi Yoshida, the first Michelin-starred teppanyaki chef, and Chef Kubota, a sushi master with six Michelin stars to his name. Meanwhile, French favourites and local specialities are served in an airy, elegant atmosphere at modern Brasserie Jolie, and creative cocktails are mixed with Jazz Age flair at speakeasy-inspired Canes & Tales.

For day-to-night sipping, savouring and socialising, there’s Peacock Alley – a stunning lounge with eight-metre ceilings and towering windows designed to evoke a traditional Japanese lantern. Here, coffee hour gives way to afternoon tea and evening rounds of Champagne, all with show-stopping views of the city below.

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Panoramas are in ample supply in the wellness areas, too. The state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness centre overlooks the skyline, and the 30th-floor infinity pool boasts sweeping vistas across the bay; at 20 metres long, it also provides plenty of space for early morning laps and splashes of family fun. True tranquillity can be found in the Waldorf Astoria Spa, where guests can luxuriate in the vitality Jacuzzi, dry sauna and mist sauna, or enjoy curated treatments inspired by local Japanese ingredients and traditions.

The hotel’s patent elegance and penchant for sophistication, however, shouldn’t frighten away travellers with children. Families are well catered for here, from the spacious suites to thoughtful kid-friendly dining options and age-appropriate cultural activities arranged by the signature Personal Concierge. What’s more, the Waldorf Astoria Osaka’s privileged location just steps from the JR Osaka Station facilitates friction-free adventures exploring nearby destinations like Kyoto and Nara. 

Lively yet discreet, timeless yet innovative, above the bustle yet in the midst of it, Waldorf Astoria Osaka is an address shaped for those who expect the city at their doorstep, and refinement at every turn.