While more and more people are turning to social media to gather information about their travel destinations, even in this day and age, recommendations from locals still hold a special appeal. In this section, we ask staff members at lodging facilities across the country to share the highlights of their workplaces and their top recommendations for nearby tourist attractions.
For this article, we spoke with Yurie Kubo, Front Desk Manager at Yumoto “Hananoi” Super Hotel Osaka Natural Hot Spring.
Facility Name: Yumoto “Hananoi” Super Hotel Osaka Natural Hot Spring
Address: 3-6-35 Edobori, Nishi-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture
――Please tell us what led you to start working at Super Hotel.
My parents took me on many trips when I was young, and since I’ve always loved traveling, I focused my job search specifically on the hotel industry. In particular, the COVID-19 pandemic was a time when I truly came to appreciate the importance of human connections once again. I resonated with Super Hotel’s philosophy of valuing people, and I decided to join the company because I wanted to grow in an environment that values not only our guests but also my fellow employees.
――What kind of hotel is it?
Super Hotel Osaka Natural Hot Spring is a relaxing hotel located in downtown Osaka where guests can enjoy authentic natural hot springs and a sauna. It’s packed with features designed to support a restful night’s sleep, such as clean guest rooms with excellent soundproofing and blackout curtains, as well as a pillow service offering a choice of eight different types. Furthermore, the next morning, guests can enjoy a “Healthy Breakfast Buffet” featuring organic vegetables and local specialties, ensuring a comfortable stay for both business travelers and tourists.
――What kind of experience is unique to Super Hotel Osaka Natural Hot Springs?
The main attraction is that this facility features one of the few authentic natural hot springs in Osaka—sourced from a depth of 1,000 meters—along with a state-of-the-art sauna equipped with an automatic löyly function and a 90-centimeter-deep cold plunge pool. Working up a good sweat in the sauna and then enjoying a free cold drink or alcoholic beverage at the “Welcome Bar” in the lounge after your bath is a special experience unique to this facility. Right in the heart of the city, you can fully indulge in a supremely relaxing and rejuvenating experience with the hot springs and sauna.
――Please let us know if there are any sightseeing spots or restaurants in the area around the hotel that you personally recommend.
Our top recommendation for a sightseeing spot is Utsubo Park, located within walking distance of the hotel. This urban oasis, featuring a beautiful rose garden and lush greenery, is perfect for a stroll in the fresh air after refreshing yourself in the sauna or hot springs. The surrounding area is home to many stylish cafes and popular restaurants, where you can enjoy a luxurious, leisurely moment under the dappled sunlight with a takeout drink in hand.
When it comes to dining, our top recommendation is “Udon Awaza Hyakku,” a hugely popular udon restaurant within walking distance of the hotel that’s so popular it often has lines out the door. The homemade noodles, crafted by the owner who trained at renowned restaurants, are glossy and springy, and the “Chicken Tempura Bukkake”—topped with large, crispy pieces of chicken tempura—is a masterpiece worth waiting in line for. Additionally, the lush “Utsubo Park” is nearby, offering plenty of spots perfect for a post-meal stroll or to refresh yourself after a sauna or hot spring.
――What are your recommended restaurant dishes?
At Super Hotel, driven by our desire to help guests start their day feeling healthy and energetic, we take special care in preparing our breakfast. We invite you to enjoy our “Healthy Breakfast Buffet,” featuring local specialties and organic ingredients.
We especially recommend the salad made with Super Hotel’s original dressing and organic vegetables. The organic vegetables used in the salad are highly sought after and packed with nutrients, including plenty of vitamin C and minerals. In addition to Osaka’s signature flavors, such as takoyaki, we offer a wide variety of healthy side dishes designed to provide a well-balanced diet.
――What are some recommended souvenirs?
When it comes to classic Osaka souvenirs that are sure to please, we recommend the pork buns from “551 Horai” and “Tsukikyo.” These pork buns, with their irresistible juicy meat filling and chewy dough, are perfect for taking home. As for sweet souvenirs, “Tsukikeshō” features a delicate milk flavor and smooth red bean paste; since they’re individually wrapped and have a long shelf life, they’re perfect for colleagues and friends. Both items are readily available at major train stations and the airport.
© Source travel watch