A One‑Stop Taste of Osaka: InterContinental Hotel’s MICHELIN Key Luxury

"I stayed at the InterContinental during a magical spring trip, and between the dining and spa — an on-site, upscale take on onsen baths — I left with an appreciation of the hotel as a local experience I don’t always expect from such a large international brand. Steps from Osaka Station, the 20th-floor lobby offers skyline views, a traditionally minimalist aesthetic and bright artwork, and I became obsessed with the cool citrus water served in artsy, colorful glasses; the concierge would even call the spa to save some for me when I returned too late. The spa recreates regional hot spring traditions with two warm baths meant respectively for sitting and lying, alongside typical offerings like massage, facials, a 24/7 gym and a swimming pool. The sprawling breakfast buffet — a haunting favorite — combined Japanese sensibilities and simple cooking with beautiful fresh fruit, tamago, perfectly salty cod roe and fresh pastries. It felt like pure excellence and high-end luxury while still unmistakably Osaka." - Alexis Benveniste