HANA HOSPITALITY Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Founder and CEO: Glass Wu) celebrated the grand opening of The GALA Hotel Umeda in Osaka’s Nakatsu area on March 3, 2025, with a festive opening ceremony.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held with distinguished guests including (from left):
Mr. Kazuhiro Kobayashi, President & CEO of Kobayashi Shoji Co., Ltd.;
Mr. Kazuhiko Maeda, Secretary-General of the Osaka City Council (LDP);
Mr. Jason Lam, Vice President of Japan Hana Real Estate Co., Ltd.;
Mr. Glass Wu, Founder & CEO of HANA HOSPITALITY Co., Ltd.;
Ms. Atsuko Maeda, former AKB48 member and actress;
and Mr. Noriaki Takeda, President of PROCESS5 DESIGN Co., Ltd.
More than 30 guests from Japan and abroad attended the ceremony to celebrate the hotel’s opening and express high expectations for the future of the new property.
This ceremony embodied the brand’s philosophy of valuing community connections while providing heartfelt hospitality to every guest. Surrounded by elegant décor and a warm atmosphere, the event marked an important first step for the hotel as a new brand within the HANA HOSPITALITY Group.
Going forward, The GALA Hotel Umeda aims to become a convenient and comfortable base for both tourism and business, contributing to the local community and creating long-term value.
Message from Glass Wu, Founder & CEO of HANA HOSPITALITY Co., Ltd.
Glass Wu commented on the hotel concept:
“The GALA Hotel Umeda is an urban botanical hotel surrounded by greenery, offering a relaxing stay away from the bustle of the city. Located within walking distance of Umeda Station, it is the ideal location for both leisure and business travelers.”
“The GALA Hotel Umeda is not just a place to stay—it is a destination that shares the charm of Osaka and creates new experiences, offering all guests a comfortable and memorable stay.”
Regarding the hotel’s opening amid the excitement around Expo 2025 Osaka, she added:
“As Osaka gains global attention ahead of Expo 2025, we expect to welcome many domestic and international guests. Through our unique and vibrant hospitality, we look forward to providing exceptional experiences and warm service to all who visit.”
Message from Kazuhiko Maeda, Secretary-General of the Osaka City Council (LDP)
Mr. Maeda expressed his congratulations:
“I sincerely congratulate you on the opening of The GALA Hotel Umeda. The concept explained by President Wu highlights a relaxing space where families can feel at ease. The custom-made interior design creates a warm atmosphere with the natural touch of wood. I hope that The GALA Hotel Umeda will continue to shine at the heart of Osaka and grow together with this city.”
Conversation Between Actress Atsuko Maeda and CEO Glass Wu
Atsuko Maeda shared her impressions:
“There are surprisingly few hotels that accommodate small children, and some even refuse them, but The GALA Hotel Umeda is very family-friendly. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed. I think it’s wonderful that the hotel reflects so much thoughtful consideration.”
About The GALA Hotel Umeda
Located in Osaka’s Nakatsu district, The GALA Hotel Umeda is a boutique hotel offering refined design and warm hospitality. It provides a peaceful retreat away from the city’s bustle while delivering a special stay experience for both travelers and business guests.
The hotel lobby includes Areca Café & Bar, opening on April 1. Guests can enjoy fresh-baked pastries in the morning and craft cocktails or natural wines in the evening.
The property features 100 guest rooms, including Deluxe Family Suites and Luxury Suites. With modern, calming interiors and well-appointed amenities, the hotel ensures a relaxing stay for every guest.
The GALA Hotel Umeda is more than just accommodation—it is a place that showcases Osaka’s charm and creates new travel experiences. With easy access to the lively Umeda area, the hotel is perfect for both tourism and business.
Designed under the concept of harmony with nature, the interiors feature warm wood tones and abundant greenery, creating a tranquil atmosphere where guests can relax and unwind.
Accessibility & Location
The hotel’s excellent location within walking distance of Umeda Station makes it an ideal base for business, sightseeing, and shopping. Blending convenience with sophisticated comfort, The GALA Hotel Umeda promises a pleasant stay for guests from Japan and around the world.
Comfort for Families
The GALA Hotel Umeda is thoughtfully designed with families in mind. Family rooms and shared spaces include amenities and layouts that allow guests with children to stay comfortably and safely. Every detail enhances convenience and enjoyment for family trips.
Key Features of The GALA Hotel Umeda
The hotel’s stylish and colorful interiors evoke the feeling of an overseas getaway. It offers an exciting atmosphere where simply being in the hotel becomes an enjoyable experience.
Hotel Concept and Background
The GALA Hotel Umeda was created to meet the diverse needs of modern travelers. It is designed to provide a comfortable and functional stay for families, female travelers, and long-term guests.
The concept originates from challenges faced by families traveling with young children. By offering baby beds, facilities for preparing milk, in-room kitchens, and washer-dryers, the hotel ensures a worry-free stay for parents. Spacious living rooms allow families and friends to relax together.
While many accommodations are designed from a male perspective, The GALA Hotel Umeda also prioritizes comfort for women, making it suitable for business trips or girls’ trips. The colorful, sophisticated interior design turns the stay itself into a memorable experience.
The GALA Hotel Umeda offers warm, thoughtful service and a comfortable, unforgettable stay for business travelers, tourists, families, and female guests alike.
Contact for Media Inquiries
The GALA Hotel Umeda
1-18-14 Nakatsu, Kita-ku, Osaka 531-0071, Japan
Email: pr@thegalahotel.com (Public Relations Department)
Official Website: https://thegalahotel.com
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegalahotel
Official X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/thegalahotel
Recruitment Page: https://thegalahotel.com/career/
This press release references information published on PR TIMES:
https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000004.000157297.html
