They're holding the line, a line I'm hearing more and more from European properties as well (lounge is too small to let every non-upgraded gold/diamond use it). This policy spreading to other Asian properties?

I think I've pushed this far enough and so will let it go. We're checking in on a Sunday, so perhaps that will work in our favor for an upgrade.

Sent this:

Dear Noritsugu Ohba,

Thank you very much for your kind reply.

However I am a bit puzzled. I have colleagues and friends who have stayed at the Hilton Osaka and, as Diamonds, were provided with lounge access even though they were not upgraded. Indeed I chose the Hilton Osaka for our stay based on their recommendations. Lounge access was one key determining factor since I've also been told that the Executive Lounge staff are truly superb.

Is this a recent change in policy? If so, it is very disappointing. We are also staying at the Hilton Beijing on this trip and I today received an email from Molly Huangfu, the Reservation Manager, confirming in advance that we will have Executive Lounge access:

"As a HHonors Diamond, you can enjoy our Executive Lounge afternoon tea, evening cocktail and breakfast if our Executive Floor fully booked upon check in. Anyway, we will try our best to free upgraded you to our Executive Floor room."

This is the sort of service my wife and I, both Diamonds, have come to appreciate from Hiltons around the world. And my friends and colleagues have
told me that the Hilton Osaka does indeed offer 5 Star service.

Can I please ask you to kindly reconsider our request, referring it to the Reservation Manager if you are personally unable to grant it? We would be most grateful.

Again, we are very much looking forward to our stay with you at the Hilton Osaka.

Thank you in advance.

Regards,
Chapel Hill Guy

Response:

Dear Mr. Chapel Hill Guy

Thank you very much for your email many times. Hilton HHonors policy you mentioned has not changed at all. We only would accomplish duties in following to policy.

Regarding executive lounge access, we are regrettable to inform you that only the guests who are staying on the Executive floors are able to access
to there. The reason is because a lounge capacity is no so large, and an originally visitor stayed at an executive room cannot manage to use a lounge on fully occupy.

In case of not providing up grade service to the guests, however, we are happy to present them a half bottle wine.

We apologize for the inconvenience that may cause you and deeply appreciate your kind understanding.

Yours sincerely,

Noritsugu Ohba
Rervation
Hilton Osaka