A new integrated resort is set to rise on Yumeshima, the island that hosted Expo 2025. Photo Credit: Karen Tee
Expo 2025 might be drawing to a close on 13 October, but Osaka is hardly stepping off the global stage. Instead, Japan’s secondary city is doubling down on its long-term appeal as a destination for business and leisure travellers with a string of hotel debuts, revitalised civic spaces and infrastructure upgrades that will keep the events momentum going long after the pavilions come down.
New hotels on the block
The latest wave of international hotel launches – including the Patina Osaka near the iconic Osaka Castle; The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection; and the Waldorf Astoria Osaka – has expanded the city’s room inventory while elevating its profile with dining, wellness and event-ready amenities.
Function space with city view at Four Seasons Hotel Osaka.
The Four Seasons Hotel Osaka features a 220-sqm ballroom that can be divided into three flexible spaces and a dramatic 37th-floor sky salon with sweeping city views. Its 148 guest rooms and 27 suites are bright and contemporary, while the Gensui Modern Ryokan floor offers 21 tatami-style rooms for a uniquely Japanese experience. The hotel also curates bespoke group activities such as private river cruises, glass art workshops and immersive TeamLab visits which are suitable for incentives or networking sessions.
Also new is Canopy by Hilton Osaka Umeda at the Grand Green Osaka mixed-use development. The brand’s first outpost in Japan has quickly become an attractive choice for small and mid-sized groups, with a dedicated events floor that accommodates up to 100 guests, alongside 308 guest rooms and suites in a vibrant design reflecting Osaka’s energy.
Grand Green Osaka itself is one of the city’s most ambitious redevelopments, transforming a former freight yard in the Umeda business and transport hub into a sprawling urban centre. The district, which will complete its final residential phase in 2027, already houses Congrès Square with a 1,700-sqm convention hall and flexible smaller spaces as well as the JAM BASE innovation hub, a co-working and innovation facility designed for cross-industry collaboration.
Adding a lifestyle element, Umekita Park’s 45,000 sqm of lawns and gardens provide a refreshing outdoor venue for breakout or wellness sessions, while the newly opened Time Out Market brings together a selection of the city’s most well-regarded eateries to offer groups an informal yet curated culinary experience.
Umekita Park is a sprawling 45,000 sqm of lawns and garden. Credit: Karen TeeA new crop of attractions
But it is not all business as the city’s playful side continues to shine through. Osaka’s reputation as Japan’s most spirited destination makes it especially attractive as a travel destination, with Universal Studios Japan leading the charge. Of note is the theme park’s new Donkey Kong Country attraction which injects extra thrills for group visits and keeps travel itineraries fresh.
Looking further ahead, perhaps the strongest signal of Osaka’s long-term ambitions is the integrated resort planned for Yumeshima, the island where the Expo is situated. Once completed, the project will include large scale infrastructure including entertainment facilities, hotels, museums and exhibition halls, ensuring the grounds remain a focal point for global gatherings well into the future.
AloJapan.com