Hoshino Resorts is known for providing high-quality accommodations across Japan, with a focus on making travel fun. Favored by international tourists, the company operates several brands, each with its own unique appeal.

These five brands include Hoshinoya, an extraordinary escape with a distinctive theme; KAI, a hot spring inn where guests can immerse themselves in the local cuisine and culture; OMO, a vibrant city-center hotel designed to hype up guests about the area; Risonare, a fun, family-friendly resort; and BEB, a laid-back destination for rest and relaxation.

Kiko Matsuda is a writer with Westplan who has covered various culinary spots and attractions in Japan and abroad for many years. As a frequent guest of Hoshino Resorts hotels, OMO is one of her go-to accommodations. The appeal of OMO lies in its convenient city-center locations, comfortable stays, and community-based sightseeing experiences, where staff who love their city work with local residents to highlight its charms. These experiences help visitors uncover forgotten history, appreciate the local lifestyle, and create lasting memories by engaging with the city’s culture and people.

OMO redefines urban tourism with its community-based travel experiences, featuring hidden local gems not typically found in guidebooks. When opening a new hotel, staff members dive into the area firsthand, exploring on foot to discover its unique attractions. They work closely with locals, deciding where to guide guests, which community members to partner with, and what local specialties to highlight.

From sake and sweets to handmade crafts and traditional art, OMO curates their activities with a fresh and immersive take on sightseeing, making every encounter uniquely captivating.

Specific OMO-branded hotels include OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka and OMO7 Asahikawa. The number following “OMO” represents the number of services offered. The higher the number, the more extensive amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and public baths, ranging from OMO3 to OMO7.

OMO3 is a basic hotel, ideal for casual travelers or business trips. The 24-hour Food & Drink Station offers items like bread, deli goods, sweets, and alcohol from popular local stores. Guests can enjoy these in the café area or their rooms using the Grab & Go system. Note that access to the café and shop is exclusive to hotel guests.

OMO5 is a boutique hotel, designed to reflect the characteristics of the city in which it is located. The café offers in-house prepared meals, with a breakfast menu highlighting local ingredients—a great choice for early risers. The café is also open to non-guests.

OMO7 is a full-service hotel that also functions as a landmark in the city. It features a café, restaurant, and bar, making it ideal for guests who want to indulge in a nice breakfast and dinner without having to leave the hotel. The large public bath is another feature. For airport hotels like OMO Kansai Airport, facilities include a fitness center and spa, ensuring a comfortable stay before or after your trip.

As you can see, there are four types of OMO hotels, allowing you to select the best one to suit your travel needs!

Each OMO hotel features the Go-KINJO Map, a large illustrated wall map filled with up-to-date information on local attractions and restaurants that you can visit on that day. Note that the map excludes any establishments that are closed for the day.

At OMO Base, the hotel’s public area, daily events highlight the local culture with talks and displays of regional delicacies and specialty products. It’s a great place to learn about the area before heading out to explore.

One unique aspect of OMO’s services is the Neighborhood Activities, led by staff members known as OMO Rangers. These Rangers guide guests to local spots and shops, sharing insider knowledge gathered through their own personal exploration of the area.

At check-in, be sure to check the schedule and make reservations for anything you’re interested in. Most activities are free, however some that include food or drink may incur a small fee, so be sure to confirm before heading out.

Guest rooms are stylishly designed with decor and amenities that reflect the local area, offering both functionality and comfort. Each location also employs English-speaking staff, with some members fluent in Chinese and Korean, ensuring a welcoming environment for international visitors.

The theme is “A Heartfelt Journey Through Time and Space,” where guests can unwind as they immerse themselves in the historical charm of Toji Temple, and the traditional ambiance of the old town.

With a history spanning over 1,200 years, Toji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its five-story pagoda stands as one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks.

OMO3 Kyoto Toji offers 120 guest rooms in three styles. Each room is relaxing and functional, with some even boasting views of the pagoda. Guests can also request a Baku-themed illustration from the front desk to place under their pillow.

According to Japanese folklore, Baku is a mythical creature believed to devour bad dreams, making room for sweet dreams to take their place.

In the center of the OMO Base, which is free to use for the duration of your stay, you will find a sand-covered sutra table, where you can write letters in the sand or create a Japanese rock garden using various props.

When you open the door, you'll also see a neighborhood map on the wall, which features a historical map of Kyoto from the time Toji Temple was built.

On the counter, you’ll also find a Shakyo (sutra copying) set with a brush, allowing guests to try this meditative practice for themselves. Once you’ve completed your sutra, you can either take it to Toji Temple for dedication or, if you're short on time, leave it with an OMO Ranger to offer on your behalf for a fee of 500 yen.

The OMO Food & Drink Station is open 24 hours a day and offers cashless payment. Here, you can buy local goods, including 10-yen snacks, breads from popular Kyoto stores, teas and goods made in collaboration with traditional shops, and local sake from Fushimi, all of which you can enjoy either back in your guest room or at the OMO Base.

The Neighborhood Activities led by OMO Rangers are primarily centered around Toji Temple. One activity is the Morning National Treasure Walk/Wake Up Mandala Circle Exercises, which departs at 6:20 AM and starts with some gentle exercises on the temple grounds.

This is followed by a visit to Miedo Hall, where guests can see the Buddha statue (Kobo Daishi) that's usually hidden from view. Guests will also find the crisp morning air within the temple to be incredibly refreshing!

At 11 AM, guests can then participate in the Toji Mandala Walk, where a guide delves into the history of Toji Temple and its Buddhist statues, highlighting the three-dimensional mandala in the Kodo lecture hall.

Additionally, the “Fortune and Protection” Toji Temple and Kobo Daishi Prayer Plan for solo travelers includes a formal visit to Toji Temple, where guests receive a protective talisman and a limited-edition OMO3 Kyoto Toji bracelet.

Hearing the monks quietly recite sutras in the peaceful Miedo Hall during this formal visit adds to the rare and calming experience.

In this neighborhood, with its old-fashioned Kyoto vibe, there's Hinodeyu, a public bathhouse frequented by locals with a retro wooden building and traditional ambiance that make it a visitor favorite. When checking in at the front desk, be sure to pick up a Rakuraku Sento Set, which includes everything you'll need for your bath, including towels and shampoo.

The friendly staff were very helpful in showing how to use the lockers, and there’s also the chance to chat with locals during your soak. The OMO x Hinodeyu Sento Iroha pamphlet is also available in multiple languages, making it accessible for foreign visitors interested in trying out the sento for themselves.

Toji Sento Experience and Rakuraku Sento Set: 1,200 yen (Face soap can be taken home; other items must be returned).

This hotel, inspired by the concept of a happy night out, offers guests various ways to fully enjoy Susukino, the lively downtown area of Sapporo in Hokkaido. It features 226 guest rooms in five different styles.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed by an impressive illuminated sign that measures 4.2 meters wide and 3.2 meters high, featuring the names of 26 fictitious restaurants inspired by the neon lights of Susukino, setting the tone for an exciting night on the town.

The Susukino Apero Meetings, held daily at 6 PM and 8:30 PM at OMO Base, are great events for anyone wanting to explore the area.

OMO Rangers share insights on Susukino's food scene through quizzes and introductions to various restaurants. After learning about the local offerings, you'll be eager to dive into the vibrant nightlife of Susukino!

One popular option is the Susukino Zero Street Development Tour, which explores Sapporo's oldest underground dining and drinking district, which has been in operation for over 50 years. Here, you can buy bread from a bakery that’s open from evening until dawn, visit shops featured in movies, and explore a multi-tenant building filled with nostalgic Showa Era pubs.

It’s great to be able to learn about spots one might otherwise overlook when exploring alone. Another nice perk is that participants can excuse themselves from the tour once they find a place they like. I personally did so at a café-bar known for its nighttime parfaits.

Another spot that caught my attention was the Susukino Hashigo-zake Tour, which takes you to a long-established ryotei restaurant that also happens to be the oldest robatayaki restaurant in Sapporo! Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time this visit, but it’s definitely on the list for next time!

Another popular accommodation option is the Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho Ramen-Hopping Plan, which allows guests to sample half-size portions of ramen from well-known eateries. This plan includes a ticket for orders of half ramen at three different restaurants within Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, which features 17 famous Susukino ramen shops.

OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi, located in Katamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture (the top gourmet town of the Hokuriku region) offers 101 guest rooms in six different types.

The hotel is designed to make guests feel at home, and its concept, ”Appare! Aji no Katamachi (“A Taste of Katamachi”), carries two meanings: to savor the local cuisine, and to appreciate traditional culture and history.

Upon entering, you’ll find Kutani ware artwork modeled after the Kaga Hachiman Okiagari figures. The Go-Kinjo Map in the corner of OMO Base lists lesser-known sushi restaurants, small eateries, and izakayas popular with locals, as well as shops selling Kutani ware and lacquerware, which are designated as national traditional crafts.

Despite knowing it would only add to my luggage, I couldn't help but visit a Kutani ware for some nice plates.

At OMO Base, guests can also enjoy in-house activities like Kanazawa Gold Leaf Letter Making (1,000 yen) and Nama Rakugan Making (1,000 yen).

The OMO Cafe & Bar is open all day, from breakfast to bar time. Breakfast is semi-self-service, where guests choose one main dish from several options, then grab their own salads, yogurt, and drinks to bring back to their table.

With all the distinct Kanazawa ingredients, seasonings, and tableware, guests are bound to have a delightful meal!

The Kanazawa Katamachi Food Culture Walk, one of the Neighborhood Activities, is packed with attractions, including a stroll around the historic streets of Nagamachi, and the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa-era drinking district, Shintenchi.

During the walk, we enjoyed exclusive tastings at a long-established Japanese confectionery shop and had a delightful shopping experience at a Kutani pottery store. Wandering through the back streets of Katamachi while listening to the OMO Ranger's insights, it felt just like hanging out with local friends. The Japanese sweets were also so delicious, I had to order more online even after returning home!

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Kanazawa Strolling Tour, held in the mornings when there are fewer tourists, was developed through trial and error by the museum and OMO5 Kanazawa Katamachi staff, providing many insights not found in the brochures.

Despite the tour being free of charge, it still offers a thorough experience of contemporary art. However, if you're interested in seeing more, we recommend checking out the paid areas after the tour is over.

OMO5 Kumamoto is situated along the Shimotori-Kamitori Shopping Street, a prime location in Kumamoto where streetcars run.

The hotel offers 160 rooms in eight different types, including the Yagura Room, which feature an attic-like bed space, and the Entaku Room, designed with a large table between two beds that’s perfect for enjoying drinks. It’s an impressive balance of fun and functionality!

Dekoboko Terrace at OMO Base provides a great view of Kumamoto Castle, with sofas and chairs nestled among lush vegetation that makes it feel like an extension of the surrounding forest. The intentional variations in height add to the sense of privacy.

Dekoboko Terrace is open to non-guests as well, where visitors can feel free to enjoy drinks and sweets from the café, chat with friends, or get some work done on their laptops.

One of the Neighborhood Activities, called Joshita Machi Saruku, takes its name from the Kumamoto dialect term for “strolling.”

Guests wander through shopping streets and back alleys, lead by OMO Rangers, who introduce them to spots like Meiji Era bookstores, retro cafés, tea shops, and other unique shops loved by “wasamon”—Kumamoto’s term for people who enjoy discovering new things.

One highlight of this stroll is the Granite Ball, a 300 kg stone sphere in front of OMO5 Kumamoto that spins with just a gentle touch. Locals affectionately call it Palu-tama, and it’s also a rather popular meeting spot!

OMO5 Kumamoto is surrounded by over 100 bars, so it’s no surprise that there’s a Kumamoto Go-KINJO BAR event held at OMO Base from 5 PM every day (except Fridays).

The bar-loving staff use a custom bar-matching chart to help guests find their perfect spot, offer samples of original cocktails from nearby bars, and recommend great places to visit after dinner.

OMO7 Osaka is located in an area where you can fully experience the vibrant Osaka vibe, with attractions like Tsutenkaku and Shinsekai nearby. As part of Hoshino Resorts, it provides the comfort and services associated with its Naniwa Luxury theme. The hotel features a front lawn with a 7,600 square-meter area known as Miyagurin, and includes 436 guest rooms in eight styles across 14 floors.

The hotel offers a variety of rooms for different needs and preferences, including high-floor accommodations with beautiful night views of Abeno Harukas, rooms with a direct view of Tsutenkaku Tower, Corner Twin Rooms with panoramic views of Osaka through double-wall windows, and the Idobata Suite, which offers a sense of privacy with the bed half-hidden behind a wall.

These suites can accommodate 4 to 6 people, and include a large table, making them ideal for larger gatherings.

The Go-Kinjo Map at the entrance, (also known as the Deka Osaka Board), features highlights and eateries all throughout Osaka. The OMO Base also includes a library lounge stocked with books on Osaka’s food and culture, as well as a spacious, open terrace that connects to Miyagurin. Staff can assist guests in English, Chinese, and Korean.

One recommended Neighborhood Activity is the Honaikoka, Tsuuna Shinsekai Sanpo (Guided tour for a deep dive into Shinsekai).

The Shinsekai area, with landmarks like Tsutenkaku Tower and Janjan Yokocho, captures a nostalgic Showa-era atmosphere while offering a friendly downtown vibe. This activity includes an English-guided tour, with English pamphlets also available for other activities.

The morning Ee Dashi Detemasu (Discover Dashi) Tour takes visitors to Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market, where they visit specialty shops and learn about Kansai’s dashi culture, with a focus on ingredients like dried bonito flakes and kelp.

The Meccha Kushikatsu Donburi (Binge on Kushikatsu) is a must-try experience for first-time visitors to Osaka, celebrating the city’s beloved 'B-class gourmet' specialty, kushikatsu (fried skewers).

OMO Rangers offer insights into the local customs, such as the strict no double-dipping rule for sauces and tips on ordering at the counter. You may even find yourself befriending the fast-talking staff speaking in Osaka dialect!

・Guide fee: 1,000 yen per person

After dark, guests can enjoy Pikapika Night at Miyagurin, an event exclusive to hotel guests. Aizuya takoyaki and local beer are served, and guests can appreciate neon Osaka-themed artwork, as well as a light show projected onto the building's exterior. After a relaxing soak in the bathhouse, guests can lounge around in a fancy yukata, exclusive to this OMO location!

At OMO Dining, guests can enjoy the dinner course, Naniwa Neo Classic, which features a gorgeous arrangement of Osaka's local cuisine. The eight-course meal is crafted with select ingredients that reflect the Kuidaore (“eat ‘till you drop”) food culture of Osaka, prepared with culinary techniques from France. The presentation is visually stunning, and the depth of flavor is truly impressive.

The wine and sake pairings are perfectly curated to complement each course.

Dinner Course:
・Adults: 13,000 yen; Elementary school students: 6,000 yen
・Pairings: 6,000 yen; Half Portions: 3,000 yen

Breakfast is served buffet-style with a selection of Japanese and Western dishes, featuring a deli corner with prepared specialties from Kizu Market, including homemade bread, salads, and more.

The live kitchen serves dishes like Dashimaki Kaiho-don, a rice bowl topped with fresh seafood from Osaka Kizu Wholesale Market, marinated in a special sauce and paired with fluffy dashimaki. Guests can also enjoy udon noodles with a generous topping of freshly shaved bonito flakes.

Breakfast Buffet:
・Adults/Children (7 and up): 3,000 yen; Children (4-6): 1,500 yen

OMO7 Kochi offers guests the chance to experience the exciting Yosakoi Festival and Japan’s “omotenashi culture.” It’s built on the concept “Kojanto Rakuen, Come on, Night!” with lots of activities designed to make guests fall even more in love with the city!

The hotel offers a total of 133 guest rooms in eight types, decorated with Tosa washi wallpaper and Japanese cypress furniture. The round tables are inspired by a traditional sawachi, a type of serving platter, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere for guests.

At the heart of OMO Base is a grand, open staircase that fills the space with a refreshing, airy feel. Guests are free to read or chat in this open space. In a session called “All You Need to Know About Okyaku,” OMO Rangers share their insights on Kochi's banquet culture, Okyaku.

Here, you can experience traditional Japanese drinking games, like Bekuhai and Kiku No Hana, which will quickly enchant you with the Okyaku culture. Although the session lasts only about 30 minutes, the catchy tune “Berobero no Kamisama wa” will surely linger in your head long after the event!

Each night, the space transforms into a stage for Yosakoi Rakuen Live, an exciting show hosted by the staff. As the lights dim, a dancer gracefully takes the stage, captivating the audience with traditional Japanese dances performed to the Yosakoi-bushi melody.

The program continues with lively conversation in the local Tosa dialect, a Yosakoi Naruko dance lesson, and a special performance exclusive to OMO7 Kochi. The audience is invited to join in with their Naruko clappers, bringing the entire venue to life with energy and excitement.

If you're staying on a Saturday, don’t miss the "Suga Kiichu - Japan’s Best Sunday Market Tour" the following morning. In Tosa dialect, “suga kiichu” can mean both “tangy and delicious” and “thoughtful and considerate.”

Led by OMO Rangers, this tour takes you through the Sunday market, where you’ll find products made with yuzu vinegar and meet vendors known for their attentive, thoughtful service—all reflecting the spirit of “suga kiichu.”

At OMO Dining, guests can enjoy buffet-style meals that incorporate Kochi’s local cuisine and cooking methods for both dinner and breakfast, allowing them to fully experience the region's culinary delights.

The Tosanoyu bathhouse includes an indoor bath, an open-air bath, and a sauna. In front of the open-air bath, a garden showcases wildflowers and medicinal plants native to the Tosa region, offering a pleasant view of the changing seasons. After bathing, guests can cool down with a refreshing citrus and ginger drink.

Located in the city center, OMO Hotels offer easy access from major train stations. This central location makes it convenient to get to sightseeing spots, event venues, and other destinations.

The OMO brand offers functional and high-quality spaces and services that provide reassurance, easing any anxiety one might have when staying in an unfamiliar hotel in a new place. The different OMO locations—OMO3, OMO5, and OMO7—are preferred for their ability to cater to various needs.

Instead of typical tourist activities, OMO Hotels offer experiences that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the region, enhancing overall satisfaction and allowing guests to discover new things they might not have encountered otherwise.

The OMO Rangers and other staff members share a genuine love for their local area, recommending stores and specialties they personally use, giving guests the opportunity to interact with local business owners.

OMO Hotels offer the comfort and luxury of Hoshino Resorts at reasonable prices that align with local market rates.

My first stay at OMO was a complete surprise. I checked in with no idea what to expect, but the warm welcome from the staff quickly drew me in, and I even found myself joining some impromptu Neighborhood Activities!

The in-depth exploration of local attractions was so enjoyable, I was instantly hooked! The hotel attracts a wide variety of guests, from families and couples to solo travelers of all ages, and it’s common to see international visitors as well. With its affordable prices and comfortable accommodations, it’s safe to say that OMO has become my go-to choice for a stay in the city!

Text: Kiko Matsuda (Westplan)