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City Express by Marriott Launches in Osaka

Japan News
Marriott International has introduced the City Express by Marriott brand to the Asia Pacific region with the opening of two hotels in Osaka, Japan, according to a press release issued by Marriott International. The launch of City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya and City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South marks the brand’s first entry into Asia Pacific excluding China and expands Marriott International’s midscale accommodation portfolio in one of Japan’s major tourism and business destinations.

The simultaneous debut comes as Japan continues to attract growing numbers of domestic and international travelers. Marriott International stated that the two Osaka properties are positioned to meet increasing demand for accessible and value-driven accommodation offering connectivity, convenience, and functional hospitality experiences for both leisure and business guests.

Cristiano Rinaldi, Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China at Marriott International, said the launch represented an important milestone for the company’s regional growth strategy.

“City Express by Marriott brings a compelling value proposition that resonates with today’s travelers – combining efficiency, comfort, and accessibility in vibrant urban destinations,” Rinaldi said in the report.

City Express by Marriott is designed around streamlined hospitality concepts focused on simplicity and operational efficiency. The brand currently operates around 150 properties across six countries and serves both business and leisure travelers through several brand formats, including City Express Plus by Marriott, City Express Suites by Marriott, City Express Junior by Marriott, and City Centro by Marriott.

The newly opened Osaka properties incorporate the brand’s standard offerings, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, workspaces for business travelers, breakfast selections with local and international dishes, and lobby beverage stations serving complimentary coffee and tea. Marriott International stated that guestrooms at both hotels were developed to provide practical and comfortable accommodations for guests exploring the city or traveling for work.

City Express by Marriott Shin-Imamiya features 100 guestrooms and is located in Minami, an area known for its commercial districts, shopping streets, and entertainment venues. The property sits adjacent to Shin-Imamiya Station, providing access to the JR Osaka Loop Line, Nankai Main Line, and Osaka Metro network.

The location allows guests to travel directly from Kansai International Airport via the Nankai Main Line in approximately 50 minutes. Marriott International noted that the hotel also offers convenient access to several attractions including Tsutenkaku Tower, Tennoji Zoo, and Kuromon Market. Districts such as Namba, Dotonbori, and Shinsaibashi can be reached within 7 to 10 minutes from the property.

Meanwhile, City Express by Marriott Osaka Namba South offers 143 guestrooms in the Hanazono-kita area of Nishinari-ku. The hotel is situated next to Hanazonochō Station on the Osaka Metro Yotsubashi Line, providing direct transportation links to central Osaka.

According to the report, guests staying at the property can reach destinations including Abeno Harukas and Tennoji in approximately seven minutes, while Namba, Dotonbori, and Shinsaibashi are accessible within 10 to 15 minutes. Osaka Dome and Osaka Castle Park are also connected through the city’s transportation network. Kansai International Airport can be reached in around 45 minutes through direct rail services on the Nankai Line.

Yuji Tanaka, Market Vice President for Japan and Guam at Marriott International, said the company sees continued opportunity in Japan’s hospitality sector and growing demand for value-focused lodging options.

“The debut of City Express by Marriott in Osaka reflects our confidence in Japan’s travel market and the growing demand for high-quality, value-driven accommodations,” Tanaka said in the press release.

He added that Osaka’s cultural and commercial activity made the city a suitable location for the brand’s regional debut, providing domestic and international visitors with access to the city’s retail, dining, and entertainment districts.

Marriott International stated that both hotels are operated by Shin-Imamiya Hospitality G.K., a subsidiary of Pacifica Hotels G.K., under a franchise agreement with the company.

The two properties also participate in the Marriott Bonvoy travel program, allowing members to earn and redeem loyalty points during their stays. Marriott International said guests using the Marriott Bonvoy mobile application can access digital services and contactless travel features during their visits.

The company described the Osaka openings as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its midscale presence in key international markets. The launch also establishes the first operational base for the City Express by Marriott brand within Asia Pacific excluding China, supporting future regional expansion plans.

Osaka has remained one of Japan’s major tourism gateways, recognized for its transportation connectivity, culinary culture, and commercial districts. Marriott International noted that both new hotels are positioned near rail infrastructure to accommodate travelers seeking efficient mobility throughout Osaka and the wider Kansai region.

The opening follows broader travel recovery trends across Japan as international tourism and domestic travel activity continue to increase. Marriott International stated that the City Express by Marriott concept aims to address evolving traveler preferences for practical accommodations with simplified services and strategic urban locations.