I've been there once or twice, it's a very simple setup and not much food/drink options. I prefer JL's Sakura Lounge instead. :D

Two of us are flying out of KIX on CI153 (2pm departure) in J (DL award ticket). The purpose of this post is equally as much to ask for current guidance on "which lounge(s) should we go to if we have time", as well as simply to catalog them for OCD purposes :o :D

Between the CI and Skyteam web sites it seems the choices are the KAL landside lounge, KIX Airport airside lounge, or JAL Sakura lounge all at T1 where the flight operates from.

The DL web site also mentions a KE lounge in "North Wing by Gate 11" -- but all references to KE lounges I can find only mention the one that is landside. Is this maybe a mistaken reference to the Asuka Lounge which also seems to be at North Wing, Gate 11? (or maybe there's both?)

FWIW I also have PP but that only seems to get access to the KE landside lounge as noted above.

And 3 years later it is! (actually probably 2, or was it even 1?)

Further to my previous post, we're currently at the Sakura lounge near gate 30, will probably just stay put for logistical reasons.

It's pretty nice, bright and open with large windows offering a view of the apron. Reasonable food spread and decent beverage variety, including a self-serve bar although nothing to get excited about. They do have separate beer machines with Suntory, Asahi, and Kirin :) Separate quiet area, non-dining area, and glass-walled smoking room. Lots of power outlets. 4/5 would lounge again.

The same "FULL" or the similarly purposed, permanent sign (saying they don't entertain Priority Pass or Diners Club if it is full) is also found at KAL lounges at FUK and ICN (main terminal).

I ignored the sign and went to the reception. The lounge wasn't full and I was on a KAL flight in Y, so other potential J passengers on that flight might show up. I was not allowed in.

Shame on them. Priority Pass and Diners Club should just remove those lounges from their lounge lists.

I was just in the Asuka lounge two days ago. I think it's a dump.

So is the consensus that no airside lounge has a shower? Not even a contract lounge? Looks like the airport might offer free showers, but not sure what those are like...don't have enough time to go to outlet stores/onsen, but definitely want to refresh!

Don't know about free showers. Here's the list on the airport site.
https://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/.../relax/01.html

I liked both NH and JL lounges; nothing groundbreaking, but had all the drinks/food I could have wanted. Now, the Asuka Lounge, I have no idea. It seems United uses that one, and I can't decide whether to use that one or the NH lounge for my return on UA. Any recommendations?