Hotel the Lutheran

The best part of our stay was breakfast. The kitchen team were polite, warm, and attentive, and we truly felt welcomed by them. The food was clearly prepared with care. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the same feeling from the front desk, so I wouldn’t recommend The Lutheran Osaka, especially if you’re driving. I travel to Japan often and stayed here with 11 people, including children and teenagers, in two cars. Although the hotel is near a train station, it’s awkward for cars. The website said onsite parking was first come, first served with no reservations, but on arrival we were told it was full even though we saw empty spaces. At checkout, we weren’t allowed to briefly enter the car park to load our luggage. There’s no designated drop-off or loading area either, which was difficult with a large group, children, and bags. If you’re bringing a car, especially with children or older relatives, you may want to look elsewhere. I didn’t feel especially welcome at reception. While we were having complimentary drinks, one staff member came out from behind the counter and stared at us, though we were just talking at a normal volume and weren’t noisy. I couldn’t tell what had prompted it. It left a bad impression, and I felt that Chinese guests weren’t particularly welcomed here. The four-person room was cramped, with almost no room to open luggage, so we had to do it under the table. The slippers provided were recycled. I found that unacceptable, particularly after I noticed the pair I’d worn was torn. There was a sign on top, but it was only in Japanese.

It was my first trip to Japan, and I didn’t know how to get to the airport for an early flight at 4-5am. I asked the receptionist to book a taxi, and Mr.Aida & Ms.Miyao were very helpful. The taxi arrived on time and the driver was helpful too. Thanks for the hospitality and comfortable rooms!

Getting my bags to Tokyo could've been a hassle, but the staff made it easy. They helped me fill out the taqbin form and even called my Tokyo hotel to confirm it would accept the delivery. The rooms felt a little dated, though they were very clean. Osaka castle is nearby, and the staff were so friendly throughout my stay.

I liked the location near Osaka castle and its gardens, and the beds were comfortable. The rooms are fairly spacious, but the carpets had stains and the air conditioner vents could use a cleaning. There’s a microwave and ice and water on every floor. Staff did their best to help, though I think they could be better prepared to answer tourists’ travel questions.