Unforgettable Anniversary Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Osaka: Experience Ultimate Five-Star Luxury in Japan

Hello! I’m Taka.

In this article, I share my experience staying at The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, a luxurious five-star hotel.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary and indulged in:

• Delightful afternoon tea
• In-room breakfast

Please note that this information is from a stay a few years ago, so I recommend checking the official website for the latest updates.

If you’re considering a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, I hope this article provides you with some helpful insights!

Review Site	Hotel Rating
Rakuten Travel One of the largest online travel booking platforms in Japan	LUXURY SELECTION, Highest Quality (Top 0.3%)
Forbes Travel Guide (2024)	★★★★★ Recognized for exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and exquisite dining experiences.
MICHELIN Guide (2024)	One MICHELIN Key, A very special stay

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The Ritz-Carlton Osaka

The Ritz-Carlton, renowned for upholding the service philosophy of legendary hotelier César Ritz, offers a luxury experience rooted in its iconic values. The lion and crown in the hotel’s logo symbolize prestige and wealth, reflecting the brand’s commitment to excellence.

One of the key aspects of The Ritz-Carlton is its “Gold Standard” philosophy, which ensures exceptional service and hospitality. During my stay, I was truly impressed by the attention to detail and personalized care, which elevated the entire experience.

In Japan, The Ritz-Carlton has properties in major destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Okinawa, Niseko (Hokkaido) and Fukuoka. Of these, The Ritz-Carlton Osaka holds the distinction of being the first Ritz-Carlton hotel in Japan. I chose to stay here for a special occasion, and it was my first time experiencing the luxury of this world-class brand.

The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, a landmark as the first Ritz-Carlton hotel in Japan, opened on May 23, 1997. All guest rooms are located on the upper floors, offering sweeping views of Osaka city. With an exceptionally convenient location, it is a 5-minute walk from JR Osaka Station and a 45-minute drive from Kansai International Airport. Situated in the heart of Umeda, the hotel provides an ideal base not only for business, but also for shopping, theater, dining, and a vibrant city life.

The Ritz-Carlton Osaka embodies the core philosophy of the brand: “the finest location,” “the finest cuisine,” and “the finest facilities,” harmonized to create “a home away from home.” Guests are welcomed with heartfelt hospitality and are offered a truly comfortable stay.

Source: Official Website

A Timeless Elegance at the Main Entrance: A Classic Welcome Awaits

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At The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, the moment I approached the grand, classical entrance, a courteous doorman gracefully opened the elegant doors for me.

The experience felt like stepping into a world of timeless luxury, where every detail, from the ornate design of the doors to the warm, welcoming gesture, set the tone for an unforgettable stay.

As I stepped through the doors, I was greeted by a stunning marble floor and an opulent chandelier overhead. In the center of the lobby, a beautiful arrangement of Phalaenopsis orchids added a touch of elegance. To the right, the reception desk was visible in the distance, and I headed there first.

I had made a reservation for afternoon tea at 2:30 PM, so I opted for an early check-in at 2:00 PM. Despite the early hour, I was surprised to see the reception area busier than expected. For those staying on the club floors, however, check-in can be done in the exclusive Club Lounge for added convenience.

The staff were incredibly attentive and guided me through the check-in process with care. Even during this short time, I was repeatedly impressed by the level of hospitality The Ritz-Carlton Osaka is known for.

Originally, I had reserved a Superior Double Room on the standard floor, but to my delight, I was upgraded to a Deluxe Double Room, which was a spacious corner room. Additionally, they extended my checkout time from 11 AM to 12 PM, offering even more comfort and flexibility.

The Georgian-Style Lobby: A Blend of Classic Elegance and Timeless Charm

When you think of The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, the lobby’s iconic fireplace instantly comes to mind! The interior design is inspired by 18th-century Georgian style, evoking the atmosphere of a grand aristocratic estate.

By the way, since many guests were seated on the luxurious sofas during check-in, I waited until the evening to take some photos, when it was quieter. The marble floor is beautifully complemented by a Persian rug, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and sophistication.

The first floor has a dimly lit yet opulent ambiance, and I was truly taken aback by the grandeur of the elevator hall. It felt like a scene straight out of a movie!

On this floor, you’ll also find the venue for afternoon tea, The Lobby Lounge, as well as the breakfast venue, Splendido. Additionally, there is a gourmet shop offering exquisite chocolates and cakes, along with a boutique featuring the same towels and glassware used in the guest rooms.

Deluxe Double Room: A Luxurious Retreat Awaits

The Deluxe Double Room exudes a European elegance, showcasing a simple yet refined quality. It features a luxurious king-size bed, a cozy sofa with a coffee table, and a writing desk by the window.

On the left, the side table is equipped with a Bose Bluetooth speaker, allowing for easy connection to your smartphone. This means you can enjoy your favorite music in high quality, enhancing your stay with delightful melodies!

I believe the rooms have been further updated, as renovations are scheduled for 2024.

Although it was slightly overcast, the view extended beautifully all the way to Osaka Bay.

And here’s how the night view looked—absolutely stunning!

Inside the minibar drawer, I found a selection of tea bags, including both black tea and green tea, as well as Nespresso coffee capsules.

There were also a variety of premium alcoholic beverages and snacks available for purchase.

The refrigerator is stocked with a wide variety of beverages, including alcoholic drinks and juices, all available for purchase.

Surprisingly, they even had a drink containing turmeric, which is quite popular for its health benefits! (laughs)

Next, let’s take a look at the bathroom. It features a double vanity, which looks convenient for guests.

At the center, I found a luxurious soap from the British brand Asprey, which is complimentary along with the other amenities!

There was also a selection of bath salts from France, beautifully colored!

The yellow chamomile offers a sweet and refreshing scent, while the purple lavender provides a gentle and uplifting aroma. The orange rose, on the other hand, has a rich and noble fragrance.

The bathroom features a separate shower booth and bathtub. The rain shower, while simple in design, exudes a sense of luxury.

Across from the shower, the bathtub is spacious by Japanese standards, providing ample room for a relaxing soak.

Next to the shower booth, there is a toilet. I apologize for the darkness of the photo, as it was taken with the lights off.

The toilet features the latest technology with an automatic lid that opens! I believe Japanese toilets are among the cleanest in the world.

Afternoon Tea: A Luxurious Indulgence

This time, I enjoyed the “Laura Ashley Afternoon Tea,” which was available from September 1 to November 4, 2021.

The collaboration between The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, characterized by its interior reminiscent of an English noble’s residence, and the British brand Laura Ashley, known for its apparel, accessories, and home décor, created an afternoon tea experience that was both elegant and vibrant.

Once I was seated in a spacious spot by the window, I was presented with the menu and an informative note about “Laura Ashley.”

The staff informed me that the most popular choice was the “Royal Milk Tea,” so I decided to order that!

The teacup and saucer were also from “Laura Ashley.” I was pleasantly surprised with my first sip—it was the most delicious Royal Milk Tea I’ve ever had.

While I’m curious about the other teas, I’m already set on returning for this one next time!

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The afternoon tea has arrived!

The staff kindly took a commemorative photo for me, quickly adjusting the direction of the tea set and the informational note about Laura Ashley to ensure they were perfectly positioned for the shot. This exemplified the high level of hospitality at The Ritz-Carlton Osaka. With live piano music in the background, I was able to enjoy a delightful moment in a wonderful atmosphere.

I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant setting of the “Lobby Lounge,” reminiscent of an English noble’s residence!

When I returned to my room, it was already evening, creating a completely different atmosphere from the daytime.

With some time to spare before dinner, I relaxed while listening to piano music on the Bose speaker, gazing out at the view.

After the live piano performance during afternoon tea, I found myself completely captivated by classical music! (laughs) I was particularly soothed by Debussy’s “Clair de Lune,” which was performed in the Lobby Lounge.

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As the lights began to illuminate the cityscape, a moody ambiance filled the air.

While the full night view is undoubtedly stunning, I also appreciate the beauty of this transitional period when the sky displays its gradient of colors.

Now, it’s time to head out for dinner!

Dinner: A Culinary Experience to Remember

For dinner, I decided to visit “Lawry’s The Prime Rib,” located in the adjacent Harukas ENT, rather than dining at one of the restaurants within The Ritz-Carlton Osaka.

The staff kindly guided me to the nearest entrance, which was reassuring for someone like me, who tends to get lost easily.

The “thick-cut roast beef” served in the luxurious interior is an exquisite delight, boasting a tender and juicy flavor that is simply irresistible. This restaurant is a perfect recommendation for anniversaries, special occasions, or romantic dinners!

“Lawry’s The Prime Rib Osaka” is conveniently located on the 5th floor of Herbis PLAZA ENT, just a one-minute walk from Umeda Station and Nishi-Umeda Station.

It is adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton Osaka, making it easy to access as long as you don’t take the wrong exit from the hotel. If you happen to get lost, the staff will kindly assist you, ensuring a stress-free experience!

A massive chunk of roast beef, seasoned with a special blend of spices and slow-roasted for three hours, is presented before you on a silver cart. The Lawry’s carver skillfully carves the meat with a carving knife, serving it with a touch of flair.

I opted for the 300g “Lawry Cut.” It was incredibly tender and juicy, allowing me to fully savor the rich flavors of the lean meat.

This is a sublime roast beef experience that cannot be replicated at home, making it a unique delight found only here. The pairing with horseradish was exceptional, and I devoured the large, thick prime rib in no time. It truly transcended the boundaries of a mere meal, becoming a memorable experience!

Turn Down Service: A Touch of Luxury

Upon returning to my room, I found that the turn down service had been completed.

Turn down service refers to the thoughtful preparation done for guests while they are out, ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment. This includes closing the curtains, replenishing amenities, and tidying up around the bed.

On both bedside tables, I found water, glasses, and chocolates thoughtfully arranged.

What particularly impressed me was that the clock had been adjusted from facing forward to a side position, adding a personal touch to the service.

The table at the back had also been tidied up, and the curtains were drawn, creating a chic and sophisticated atmosphere.

In the evening, I enjoyed the stunning night view from this cozy spot.

I ordered breakfast through the in-room dining service using the room’s internal phone.

I pondered whether to dine in the breakfast venue, but ultimately, the appeal of enjoying a leisurely meal in my pajamas from the comfort of my room won out.

As expected, the service over the phone was exceptional. I was thoroughly impressed by the staff’s excellent communication skills.

In-Room Dining: A Delightful Breakfast Experience

The staff quickly set everything up for me.

This time, I ordered the American Breakfast Set (5,060 yen per person). While dining in the breakfast venue would have been more economical, I prioritized enjoying a leisurely meal in the privacy of my own space.

In the wooden bakery basket, I found a delightful assortment of whole grain bread, muffins, croissants, and Danish pastries (the whole grain bread can be substituted for regular white bread if preferred).

Accompanying these were a fresh green salad and a beautifully arranged fruit platter. While not prominently featured, there was also a side of fruit yogurt (laughs).

I truly enjoyed the fresh salad and dressing! The yogurt was available in plain or low-fat options as well.

The main egg dish consisted of an omelet accompanied by a delightful selection of sides, including crispy bacon, pork sausage, roasted potatoes, tomatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

The rich flavors and fluffy texture of the omelet were exquisite, making it a truly delicious experience!

For my beverage, I chose tea (Assam) from the options of coffee or tea.

In addition to English Breakfast, Darjeeling, and Earl Grey, there was also the option of chocolate milk. The teacup was from Noritake, and while I adored the elegant design of the Laura Ashley teacups used during afternoon tea, I also appreciated the simplicity of this one, adorned with a subtle line border!

After such a delicious breakfast, I was completely satisfied from the start of the day (laughs).

My wife, on the other hand, couldn’t finish her meal in one sitting, so she enjoyed hers at a leisurely pace, taking breaks in between. This is one of the wonderful benefits of dining in-room!

Checkout Experience

Time flies when you’re having fun!

During the checkout process at the front desk, the staff engaged in friendly conversation, making my stay truly enjoyable. It left me with the feeling of wanting to return to this wonderful hotel.

Although I didn’t take advantage of the facilities this time, I noticed they have an indoor heated pool, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, and a gym. I definitely want to experience those on my next visit!

Thank you for reading until the end!