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Located in central Osaka, nestled within the historic Dojima neighbourhood, the striking Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is a sophisticated addition to the bustling city. The voluptuous form of the building itself resembles a sleek sailboat, whilst inside, modern minimalism meets warm tones and timber detailing to create an utmost comfortable environment. The hotel’s interior was overseen by a trio of design studios; CURIOSITY led by Gwenael Nicholas, SIMPLICITY led by Shinichiro Ogata and SPIN Design Studio.

The main entrance of Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is an intimate welcome. A pitch-black floating vase titled Dream Of The Stone designed by Gwenael Nicholas is filled with seasonal floral arrangements setting the tone for considered details. The lobby sees segmented spaces and corner nooks gently hidden behind lattice screens, that allow a moment of calm and privacy for guests and visitors alike.

With various guest room types ranging from Superior Room (43–46 sqm) to Premier Corner Room (45–52 sqm) or the Grand Tatami Suite (88 sqm), all designed by Tokyo-based studio CURIOSITY, there’s something for everyone. For those looking for a home away from home, the Presidential Suite (262 sqm) would suit all needs.

As a very unique offering, the hotel features expansive suites designed as a modern ryokan experience located entirely on the 28th floor. The entire GENSUI floor is comprised of 21 exclusive rooms designed by SIMPLICITY (helmed by the irrepressible Shinichiro Ogata). Inclined for longer stays and entertaining, Gensui guest rooms exude a refined elegance of minimalism with modernised traditional aesthetics.

Find tatami flooring, large stone-tiled baths, in-room floral arrangements and breathtaking skyline views — the GENSUI floor is a world unto its own. Rooms range in size from 44 sqm for the Tatami Premier Room to the 104 sqm Two-Bedroom Tatami Premier Corner Suite which can sleep up to 6 guests. Guest rooms within the floor also exclusively feature bedding from revered Japanese specialist bedding company Showa Nishikawa, utilising their innovative MuAtsu mattress to accurately disperse body pressure for an ultimate deep sleep.

Also located within the GENSUI floor is the exclusive SABO tea room, additionally designed by Simplicity.

The hotel’s on-site dining facilities are nothing short of impressive. Helmed by Executive Chef Paolo Pelosi, the offering highlights Japan’s defined seasons to ensure that a visit any time of the year is memorable. In summer, the Afternoon Tea at all-day bistro Jardin features seasonal Japanese fruits such muskmelon and Shine Muscat grapes. Malaysia-born Executive Pastry chef Hafiz Razali’s oversees the menu, alongside his speciality of crafting signature pastries at artisanal bakery Farine located on the first floor. 

High atop the 37th floor, find Jiang Nan Chun, the hotel’s signature Chinese restaurant led by Hong Kong-born Head Chef Raymond Wong Wai Man who helms a thoughtful menu of authentic Cantonese cuisine dishes. He notes, “Our authentic Cantonese cuisine comes with a modern twist. I love to learn new things and incorporate them creatively into the dining journey.” The restaurant features expansive, panoramic city views of the wide Osaka skyline — guests can observe Mt. Ikoma, the Okawa, Dojima, and Tosabori Rivers — perfect to observe over lunch. The ‘Signature Lunch Course’ presents a diverse array of dim sum (steamed and deep-fried), to a Cantonese beef (Wagyu) and tofu thick soup, Cha Siu Bao (Steamed Barbecue Pork Bun) and Hung Yun Dow Foo (classic almond milk) dessert.

For those opting for Japanese cuisine, Sushi L’Abysse Osaka Yannick Alléno is one of the city’s most unique culinary experiences. Blending the artistry of traditional Edomae sushi by Chef Yasuda Itaru with the French haute cuisine by acclaimed Michelin-awarded chef Yannick Alléno, the mergence creates a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Donned with sculptural artworks throughout the interior, find original tapestries by artists KRJST studio Justine de moraine and Erika Schillebeeckx, to an awe-inspiring flower vase crafted by artist Coraline Desile (inspired by origami art) and a very unique coffee brewer designed by Karen Swami. The main dining space features an all-timber 12-seater counter with natural stone base legs crafted from Komatsu stone sourced from Japan’s coast in Manazuru. To accompany, the seating is a pop of vermillion red chairs. In an adjacent room, find the restaurant’s private six-seater dining space that features a red, lacquered timber counter and white-speckled seating alongside darker-toned artworks for the intimate setting.

In the Omakase (Chef’s Choice) menu, discover playful yet sophisticated dishes such as Chirashi Francaise (Sole Fillet, Sea Urchin, Beef, Scallop, Shimeji Mushroom, Yuzu, Cucumber) to Modern Shiso Tempura (spectacularly prepared in nitrogen oxide) alongside nigiri sushi that you have never experienced before. Completely original, daringly radical and equally delicious. Master sushi chef Yasuda brings an exceptional approach to an unexpected, stellar sushi offering. Very fun!

Also located on the 37th floor is Bar Bota, the hotel’s main bar, where both classic and innovative cocktails add to the perfect night. Bar Bota’s fantastically original drinks include Yuzu & Caviar (Yuzu Kosho Tanqueray No.10, Sansho Pepper Vermouth, White Bitter Blend, Caviar), to an eye-widening Wasabi & Snap Peas (Wasabi Tanqueray No.10, Snap Pea Cordial, Sherry, Acid Solution) to a refreshing and fragrant Juniper & Kyoho (Ketel One, Campari, Orange, Fluffy Kyoho Grape, Lemon, Juniper Essence) or a more bolder Saffron & Muscat (Saffron Singleton 12 Years, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Chamomile Sour Tea, Peach Wine, Skinny Muscat Grape Juice).

Wellness is at the heart of the property, with the entire 36th floor — The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Osaka — dedicated to a 24-hr gym and fitness room; a spa, sauna and 16m-long swimming pool, five private treatment rooms and two optional private rooms with private baths. Designed by SIMPLICITY, the signature soft lighting, graceful curvature finishings, textured timber walls and warm timber flooring create utmost serenity, seamlessly integrating a visual calm in harmony with accompanying wide-spanning city views.

The Spa’s Signature Body Treatment is arguably one of the best spa experiences in Japan. From the prime location presenting panoramic views of the Osaka skyline to the thoughtful procession of the treatment itself encompassing and engaging all five senses. The treatment blends ancient massage techniques following meridian lines, to incorporating soothing aroma oils infused with blessings from nearby shrines. Can you imagine one of the best massage treatments in Japan can be found on a 36th floor overlooking Osaka?

The Spa’s teams of skilled professionals — during our visit we had a talented specialist named Waka Kin — create an exceptional environment to fully relax and rejuvenate. Starting with a herbal tea upon arrival, guests change into a robe and take seat in one of the five private treatment rooms. Depending on the hour of the day, the Osaka cityscape shines with reverberated daylight or glows from the afternoon setting sun. The location is undeniably phenomenal. The Singapore Body Treatment begins with a warm foot bath and foot massage, followed by a moment for pause and gratitude where a pinch of traditional Japanese incense powder is placed in the closed palm of one’s hands in reference to Japan’s spiritual culture and inhaling deeply. Whilst next reclining on the massage bed, a Koshi wind chime is played, audibly cleansing the space with its uniquely harmonised tone. A rejuvenating body massage follows using Osaka-founded luxury skincare brand Chi To Se, creating simply exquisite products derived from rice bran. Other facial and body treatments at The Spa utilise additional products from Swiss brand Nescens and Hungary brand Omorovizca.

Art is infused throughout the hotel. Find calligraphy artist Ayako Someya ink and paper artwork within the ground floor elevator landing, to Kyoto-based lacquer artist Genta Ishizuka’s mesmerising large sculpture titled ‘Inner Cycle’ perfectly positioned on the base of the hotel’s grand staircase. Beside the 36th floor pool, a gorgeous, swirling Gohare beige stone sculpture by Ayako Ueda creates a sophisticated atmosphere. The captivating silver bead sculpture by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel is a welcome sight upon arrival to the hotel’s main entrance. Further into the nearby garden, another spectacular work by Japanese artist Kohei Nawa can also be found.

The hotel is wonderland of discovery, with something for everyone. Whether it’s resting poolside or enjoying a cocktail from the 37th floor, to culinary activities (such Tasting Experiences for Japanese Whiskey, Rum and Mezcal or onigiri rice ball-making workshops), guests won’t be short of a memorable experience. 

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL OSAKA
2–4-32 Dojima, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0003

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Text: Joanna Kawecki
Images: Courtesy Four Seasons Hotel Osaka