8 Best Hotels in The Kansai Region, Japan

This affordable hotel is within a few minutes’ walk of JR Nara and Kintetsu-Nara stations. Rooms may be basic, but they are more stylish and spacious than most hotels within a similar price range. Beds are super comfortable, and the area is quiet at night, despite the central location. The morning breakfast buffet will set you up for a day of sightseeing.

For travelers on a budget, the Hearton Hotel Shin-sai-bashi offers a good location and very reasonable rates. Located in Amerika-mura, a short walk from the Shin-sai-bashi subway stop and the Mido-suji and Shin-sai-bashi shopping streets, the Hearton is perfectly situated so you can take advantage of Osaka's shopping and nightlife. The rooms are small but comfortable. The hip Planet 3rd café is next door.

With its excellent staff, comfortable rooms, and award-winning breakfasts, Hotel Piena is a step above other midrange business hotels in downtown Kobe. Just a short stroll from the fashionable Kitano area, Sannomiya Station, and Shin-Kobe Station, the hotel is a good base for exploring the city and surrounding area. While the rooms are smaller than those of higher end hotels, they are elegant, comfortable, and good for travelers who plan to spend most of the day out sightseeing. The hotel staff are friendly and helpful, happy to give advice about sights in the surrounding area. With its central location, affordable price point, good food, and excellent service, Hotel Piena is one of the best all-around values in the city.

Of all the traditional-style guesthouses in Naramachi, this refurbished property is one of the most stylish and authentic. Accommodations are simple but give you an idea of what living in a 100-year old town house would be like, the peaceful atmosphere accentuated by the soft tatami floors, wooden fittings, and a charming inner courtyard. The lattice-fronted building also functions as a café during the day, and staying guests receive a ticket for free use of the neighborhood bathhouse. Bookings are done via the website, so you may need to translate some Japanese to make a reservation.

Of the many inexpensive, small ryokan in Nara-machi, this family-run establishment is the best pick for its spotless rooms and attentive service. The quiet neighborhood contributes to the inn's relaxed atmosphere. Simple accommodations overlook a large central garden. For those interested in local history, sit down for a chat with Mr. Shigeki whose family has owned the building for three generations. This place is very popular, so it's best to book far in advance.

Part of a no-nonsense chain of business hotels, the Shin-Osaka Washington Hotel Plaza is the smartest of its kind. The rooms are not large, but are comfortable and nicely designed. Among the highlights is the China Table Chinese restaurant, equally well known for its food and city views. The hotel is convenient to JR Shin-Osaka Station, where you can catch the bullet train.

This budget-friendly business hotel is cheap and cheerful; it's also in a convenient downtown location. The bathrooms are tiny, and for these prices you shouldn't expect stunning interior design. But you get a clean, functional space with a comfortable bed in central Kobe, halfway between the city's two main train stations.

Close to the laid-back cafés of Minami, the Toyoko Inn is a comfortable business hotel with rates that won't empty your wallet. All the amenities a budget traveler needs are here, including computers with free internet access in the foyer. The rates include a light breakfast of rice balls, miso soup, and coffee. The hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Shin-sai-bashi subway station.