Metro The 21 Hotel, Osaka

The Metro 21 is overpriced and did not meet our expectations, being one of the more expensive hotels that we stayed at in Japan. We did not receive the non-smoking room that we requested. As a result, we had sleepless nights due to the persistent smokey air being delivered from other rooms. The question then remains is - if we did have a non-smoking room, would we return to the Metro 21? All other aspects of the hotel were average at best. The Metro 21 is conveniently located amidst the shops and restaraunts in the Namba area. However, the Namba area is not an ideal location in relation to the rest of Osaka. In order to use the Osaka loop line, you need to travel one station from Namba to Imamiya, and then join the loop line. This may seem like a small nuisance, however the daily travels around Osaka makes it undesireable.

Hotel was well located within the main night area of Osaka. The room was smaller than expected and smelt strongely of smoke. Bathroom was normal sized for Japan - the room was relatively clean with small fridge, TV and hairdryer. Customer service were very helpful and spoke relatively good english. Very close to all trains and nightlife in particular.

I was greeted graciously upon check in. They gave each of us a key card, which I favor over a single key in case we lose it and it would be less of a hassle if each of us came back at different times. Unfortunately, I booked my reservation late so I was on a smoking floor, but that's my fault. I was very glad that the hotel staff had accounted for my request for 3 beds. Everything in the room was nice and tidy. My reservation package included the breakfast buffet, and that was something I looked forward to each morning. They had both Japanese-style breakfast entries as well as the eggs-ham-sausage! This is the second time I've stayed at this hotel because of the great location. I would definitely come back!