Lovely hotel, exceptional location, fabulous staff – this summarises my stay at this standout Hilton property.

Upon check-in I am warmly greeted by Noruma-san who manages to elicit an engaging conversation from me despite being tired from a long day exploring Kyoto by foot. She tells me I have been upgraded to the highest floor of the hotel which is also an Executive floor and upon request allows me to bring a guest free of charge to the lounge for evening cocktails and canapés despite the usual $40 charge. Such a lovely change from the Hilton Tokyo where it was all just a bit too difficult…. Here at Hilton Osaka all the staff are so friendly and genuinely want to know about their guests – where they are from, what brought them to Japan etc.

The room as expected is well appointed with sweeping views over Osaka. Upon request I have a Japanese Tatami pillow, an air purifier, and extra towels brought to my room.

The fitness centre and pool is in excellent condition, and I swim twice during my short stay and finish off relaxing in the sauna and hot and cold Japanese-style bath tubs.

My complimentary breakfast is Hilton standard with some additional delicacies from this part of the country including ‘Takoyaki’ – fried octopus dumplings.

Best of all though, is the location – right across the road from JR Osaka station (or above the subway lines). Convenient!!