I have a friend making a mileage run. Neither of us is familiar with Osaka. Flying on the cheap ($455 all in, SMF-KIX on Air Canada). Wants a hotel on the cheap....clean and safe, but just for a few nights. Either close to the airport with easy trans into town or, preferably, in town close to something to see/do with easy rail connections to airport. I know things are expensive in Japan, and he's not willing to spend Westin/Sheraton prices.

Any help? thanks!