Hotel Review: Fairfield by Marriott Namba, Osaka

This is my first stay at a Fairfield property outside of North America and I must say that I was very impressed. This hotel whilst not directly connected to any train station, was a very easy 10-minutes walk away from the central hub of Namba station. It is extremely convenient to Kansai International Airport, as well as the heart of Osaka’s dining, shopping and entertainment district of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.

Upon entering the hotel, I could quickly notice the lobby was not very large but certainly exudes a very welcoming homey feeling, and I was promptly greeted by a very friendly agent. It was just before 11am when I arrived but there was already a large group of people in the lobby awaiting to check-in. Like most Japanese mid-range hotels, they are usually quite strict on their check-in times. However, the hotel was kind enough to allow me to check-in early thanks to my Bonvoy Platinum status.

The guest rooms at this hotel are slightly larger than the typical mid-range Japanese hotel and are very well furnished. I really liked the glass partition between the entry/bathroom area and the bedroom, it kind of gives it a mini-suite feeling!

As a Platinum member, I had picked breakfast as my welcome amenity. Whilst this is usually given for the entire stay, this hotel only offers members a one-time voucher. This did not really bother me but might be something others might wish to consider. The cooked to order ramen is excellent!

One highlight of this hotel is that the restaurant area transforms into a lounge/co-working space after 11am. Platinum and above members are invited to use the area on a complimentary basis whilst non-guests may be a nominal fee to use this area. I have noticed several university students and perhaps WFH-workers using the area during every day of my stay.

The hotel also has a small gym and a self-serve laundrette.

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Andrew
Andrew
Andrew is a self-confessed guru when it comes to frequent flyer programmes. He claims that he is more familiar of the terms & conditions than the one who came up with the terms & conditions. His dream is to be able to feast on cookies day and night without getting fat.