Japan has a way of making you feel both inspired and at ease. My stay at MIMARU apartment hotels captured that balance beautifully.
It was my first time visiting Osaka and my second trip to Kyoto. I split my stay between two MIMARU properties: MIMARU Osaka Namba Station and MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo.
MIMARU’s accommodations are both versatile and inviting, with apartment layouts that comfortably host between four and ten guests. Larger families or groups with teenagers often opt for spacious two‑bedroom apartments. Families with younger children may prefer tatami‑style or bunk‑bed rooms, which add a cosy, playful touch to their stay.
Some properties, like the one we stayed at in Kyoto, have two MIMARU brands at the same site, with separate access areas and lift lobbies. Each brand is designed to suit different travel styles.
MIMARU Apartments
MIMARU offers a variety of room layouts. The family rooms are spacious, with sizes starting from about 40 sqm. Shared facilities include a coin laundry room and fitness center for some locations. Some MIMARU apartments have their own in‑room washer and dryer, while others provide convenient shared laundry spaces.
Certain MIMARU properties offer connecting rooms that strike the perfect balance between privacy and togetherness. With a door linking both spaces, guests can enjoy their own personal space while still being close to family or friends.
A highlight for many families is MIMARU’s thematic rooms, which create immersive experiences ranging from Pokémon-themed and board game-themed stays to castle and samurai designs that bring Japan’s cultural heritage to life. Guests can even choose Ninja-themed rooms, officially approved by the Japan Ninja Council, where playful design meets spirited adventure.
MIMARU Suites
For those seeking extra space and comfort, MIMARU Suites have exclusively two or three-bedroom suites, from about 50 sqm to 98 sqm.
These suites combine thoughtful layouts and for larger groups, there is one shared bathroom and an additional shower room inside the master bedroom. For some rooms, there is one separate bathroom and a shower room. The interiors of these suites also have additional stylish touches and premium tableware and furnishings.
MIMARU is designed with everyone in mind
The name MIMARU is a blend of two Japanese words—minna (everyone) and tomaru (to stay). That philosophy is felt at every corner of their properties: families laughing as they engage in friendly battle over board games, or young children enjoying playful fun in the lobby area.
MIMARU’s team brings together staff from 38 nationalities, offering warm Japanese hospitality complemented by global perspectives. With the ability to communicate in Japanese, English, and various other languages, they create a welcoming, stress-free experience for families and travelers seeking comfort in Japan.
First impressions in Osaka – MIMARU Osaka Namba Station
After an early flight into Kansai International, we arrived at MIMARU Osaka Namba Station well before check-in. The lobby had a calm, inviting atmosphere. I appreciated how the design of their public spaces blended modern Japanese aesthetics with a comforting sense of homeliness.
Since official check-in wasn’t until 3:00 pm, we were relieved that the staff warmly welcomed us to leave our luggage so we could head out for a day of sightseeing.
We were given a quick tour of the facilities, including their spacious game lounge—a unique space that had shelves of different board games. This definitely sets MIMARU Osaka Namba Station apart from standard hotel lobbies!
Subsequently, after we returned later in the afternoon to check in, we were pleasantly surprised to discover our bags had already been brought up to our room. It was a gesture that displayed the genuine hospitality of the MIMARU crew.
Stepping out from the lifts at Level 2, visitors will notice a numbered grid on the floor. Guests are invited to play an Elevator Guessing Game. To unlock the challenge, participants need to predict how many people will get off the elevator.
Turns out, our MIMARU Osaka Namba Station hotel-apartment is also affectionately introduced as MIMARU’s Games Hotel. This is because they have themed board game rooms like a Kids’ Board Game Room and a Werewolf Mystery Room.
Central Location and Accessible – MIMARU Osaka Namba Station
For families traveling to Osaka, MIMARU Osaka Namba Station is a standout choice for its enviable address.
Arriving from Kansai International Airport, one can ride the Airport Express train, the Nankai Limited Express Rapi:t and arrive in Namba within 35 minutes. From the station, it’s just a 5-minute walk to this family-friendly apartment hotel.
Osaka’s Namba Vibrancy
Namba, located in Osaka’s vibrant Minami (South) district, is a thrilling mix of neon lights, bustling streets, and unforgettable experiences. Kuromon Market, also known as the kitchen of Osaka is just two streets away.
From mouthwatering street food and acclaimed restaurants to lively entertainment, shopping streets, and cultural landmarks, Namba allows visitors to step into Osaka’s energy and local life.
Explore Osaka’s vibrant Shinsaibashi‑suji Shopping Street and Amerikamura, filled with boutiques, vintage shops, and unique finds. Just steps away, Den Den Town offers the best in electronics, anime, and Japanese pop culture.
First Impressions in Kyoto – MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo
I had a brief panic situation upon arriving at MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo. When the reception staff asked for my passport at check-in, I suddenly realised it wasn’t in my travel pouch. My heart sank. I had to trouble them to call MIMARU Osaka Namba Station, where we had stayed the night before, to check if I might have left it behind.
The staff were wonderfully calm and helpful, making the calls right away while I unpacked my luggage in the lobby, searching for my missing passport. After what felt like an eternity—but was really about fifteen minutes—I discovered my passport tucked safely inside my mother’s bag. I had forgotten that I had slipped it into one of the pockets the day before.
What a relief.
It dawned on me that these moments of small chaos are part of travel. The patience and kindness of the staff make all the difference.
Beyond the front desk, the lobby offers a rest area and kids’ corner with a cosy teepee, books, toys, and a big teddy bear.
I saw a young guest collecting his reward prize from the front desk. He had completed a “mission,” and his excitement was contagious. Watching him made me smile, his delight reflected in the laughter of his parents and grandparents, a heartwarming moment that captured the playful spirit of MIMARU.
Central Location and Accessible – MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo
We took the train from Osaka to Kyoto, then hopped on the Karasuma Line from Kyoto Station to Karasuma Oike Station (3 stops). At street level, look for the architecturally impressive Mizuho Bank Kyoto Building. From there, it’s a pleasant 5‑minute walk to MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo.
Along the same lane as MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo sits a FamilyMart convenience store, perfect for quick snacks or daily essentials.
With the Samurai Ninja Museum and cultural landmarks like Nijo Castle just a short walk away, the Shinmachi Sanjo neighborhood proved to be an ideal base for exploring the heart of Kyoto. From here, we easily strolled to Ippodo, my favorite traditional matcha teahouse, and even made our way to the beautiful Kyoto Botanical Gardens with ease. Staying in this central location made sightseeing, tea experiences, and cultural adventures wonderfully convenient.
Life Cycles Kyoto at Kyoto Botanical Gardens
Incidentally, one of my favourite experiences in Kyoto was stepping into the Conservatory at the Kyoto Botanical Gardens for Light Cycles Kyoto. To mark its 100th anniversary, Japan’s oldest public botanical garden transformed its lush indoor sanctuary into an immersive wonderland of light, sound, and colour. It was a magical tribute to nature — a sensory journey revealing the hidden life of plants.
Accidental Foodie Finds in Kawaramachi
Shinmachi Sanjo is part of the Karwaramachi neighbourhood, the epicentre of Kyoto. , Kawaramachi is an irresistible mix of culture, style, and atmosphere
Strolling through its streets, you’ll find the unique vibes of old Kyoto. Exploring Kawaramachi, Kyoto’s largest shopping and entertainment district, you’ll discover the unique blend of old and new — from narrow lanes lined with wooden façades, traditional tea houses, and artisan shops to sleek malls, modern cafés, and buzzing nightlife.
Taste Kyoto – Kyoto-only bread made with Kyoto ingredients
One block away from MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo, Amam Dacotan Kyoto elevates the status of bread to an art form. We stumbled upon Amam Dacotan purely by chance. Walking to and from our hotel, our curiosity was piqued by the winding queue outside the bakery.
We couldn’t resist finding out what was drawing the crowd. Thankfully, the line moved briskly, and stepping inside felt like entering a bakery wonderland.
Amam Dacotan Kyoto has an astonishing array of around 120 varieties, ranging from savoury breads generously filled with rich, flavorful ingredients to delicately sweet creations that feel almost too beautiful to eat. Each loaf and pastry reflects a deep passion for craft, and the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation as customers make their selections.
A unique highlight is their Kyoto‑exclusive menu, featuring breads made with local ingredients such as matcha, hojicha, and azuki beans. For the full experience, choose your favourite pastry for breakfast and enjoy it in the charming café space on the second floor — a truly delightful start to the day. Highly recommended.
Obanzai – Kyoto Home Style Cooking
Since our MIMARU stay didn’t include breakfast, we set out one morning on a little quest—looking for a restaurant open at 7 a.m. That search led us to Kyoto’s Karasuma neighbourhood, a charming area where quiet streets lead to bustling department stores, artisanal cafés, and off-the-radar eateries.
Our destination was Kyosaimi Nomura, a traditional Japanese restaurant where the art of obanzai—Kyoto home‑style cooking—takes centre stage. Here, you can create your own breakfast from a showcase of more than ten seasonal small dishes, prepared with fresh, locally sourced vegetables. Prices start at about ¥650 (~USD 4.50) for the signature obanzai breakfast plate, with set meals ranging from ¥850 (~USD 6) to ¥1,650 (~USD 11.50).
Ordering is simple: purchase a ticket from the vending machine by the door (an English menu option is available), then present it at the counter to choose your preferred dishes. Immersed in a calming zen atmosphere, breakfast here felt like a mindful ritual — the perfect start to exploring Kyoto.
A Sanctuary for Unhurried Moments
I loved that we had the freedom to create moments that felt uniquely our own. One evening, mom and I popped into a nearby supermarket, and picked out tender cuts of meat and local vegetables.
Back in our apartment, the kitchenette and dining area became a sanctuary for unhurried moments. We took our time preparing our meal, then savoured the delicate flavours of fresh Japanese ingredients. Words felt unnecessary—what mattered was the quiet companionship. For my mom and me, it was about sharing time together, pausing from our travel rush, and creating a lasting memory.
The full‑size fridge in each apartment—rather than a mini fridge found typically in Japanese hotel rooms, was well used by us. We loved how we could store our fresh milk, eggs and our ultimate indulgence, Ohayo Jersey milk pudding.
Thoughtful Amenities That Elevate the Stay
At MIMARU Osaka Namba Station, there was an amenities shelf where we could borrow pajamas. While guests are encouraged to bring their own toiletries to reduce their carbon footprint. If needed, it is possible to approach reception for toothbrushes and bedroom slippers. In the lobby at different MIMARU locations, there is an amenities shelf where guests will find travel guides, cosmetic samples and complimentary tea.
It was here that I first encountered TEARTH, a specialty tea brand from Osaka. TEARTH’s Sweet Honey Chai, quickly became my mid-morning favourite—rich, aromatic, and soothing. For a caffeine‑free option, Rooibos and Acai Berry blends offered a perfect end‑of‑day indulgence. Each evening, I looked forward to returning to our apartment to enjoy a quiet cup of tea, making it a simple but treasured part of our stay.
Guests can rent a variety of amenities for free, including family‑friendly essentials such as rice cookers and toasters.
For Muslim travellers, MIMARU offers separate cooking utensils such as knives, chopping boards, and tableware, so guests can cook and enjoy meals in accordance with their customs.
Pokémon themed rooms at MIMARU
Immersive experiences are a highlight and a big reason families love staying here. A top favourite is the Pokemon rooms where each booking comes with a complimentary collectible gift bag. I requested for a tour of a hotel with a Pokémon Room. It was impressive! The room had over 100 different Pokémon characters and even had a giant Snorlax plushie on the bed.
Playtime in the shower is a blast for kids and this extends to the kitchen area. Everyone will love the Pokémon-themed tableware. Plus paired with creative recipes like Pikachu omelet rice and Poké Ball cake pops, mealtimes will be a memorable family activity!
MIMARU Pokémon rooms (10 locations)
Osaka: MIMARU Osaka Namba North
Kyoto: MIMARU Kyoto Kawaramachi Gojo, Shimachi Sanjo, Kyoto Station, Nishinotoin Takatsuji
Tokyo: MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro, Ueno East, Hatchobori, Kinshicho, Ginza East
For more info, click here
The Verdict
MIMARU delivers on its promise to offer a place where families can connect, relax, and play. It’s these small, heartfelt experiences that transform a stay into something truly memorable.
Travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about sharing moments of connection. At MIMARU, that magic comes alive the moment you step inside. I watched children who were strangers just minutes before instantly bond, racing to the lobby play area, laughing, and discovering games together. Language didn’t matter—they were simply enjoying the moment.
Staying at MIMARU feels less like checking into a hotel and more like stepping into a home filled with warmth, laughter, and life.
MIMARU locations in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka
MIMARU has properties not only in Kyoto and Osaka but also in Tokyo (5 in Osaka, 7 in Kyoto, and 15 in Tokyo). They are located close to train stations, amazing food, and all the must-see spots. , so wherever you go, you get plenty of space to unpack, relax, and feel at home.
Our stay at MIMARU Osaka Namba Station and MIMARU Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo was sponsored.
