I thought I'd build off the other thread about Tokyo and ask about tips for solid hotels but inexpensive in a couple of the big destinations in Kansai.

Was looking at mainly Japanese Western style options/chains.

In Kyoto I was looking at Hotel Kanra, which looks quite nice, but I wasn't so sure about the location. I would like to book the Miru Kyoto Nishiki, but they have no openings for bookings for February onwards at this point- does anyone know if they only release availability a few months at a time?

In Osaka I was looking at Hotel the Flag, but also wasn't sure re: location.

Anybody else with experience have suggestions on these hotels or other good hotels in these cities? Would love to hear as I plan for May.

I like the Tennoji area in Osaka for the more residential selection of stores like Ito Yokado and easy access to KIX. It probably wouldn't be great for a first time visitor who is going sightseeing around Osaka but could be good for those going towards Kyoto and Yoshino.

Haven't stayed in Kyoto in some time but last I visited, I stayed near Sanjo Keihan stop. I prefer staying in the lower buildings and less office building neighborhoods of Kyoto as I like the charm and makes me feel like I'm actually in Kyoto. If I'm paying for Kyoto prices then I want to enjoy the architecture.

I stayed in Tennoji for my last trip to Osaka/Kansai and it was a great base for using the Kansai JR Pass and regular access to Kyoto. The Osaka Miyako Marriott is right across Tennoji station and that was a breeze. Loved access to Ito Yokado I think I went several times as I love checking out local supermarkets.

I just got back from Kyoto recently and chose to stay at the Nol Kyoto Sanjo, a lovely little boutique hotel converted from a former sake brewery. You get free flow sake in the lounge from 3-9pm, rooms are generously sized and well appointed. It even has a washer/dryer in the room and it was perfect for my mid-trip laundry!

I usually stay in the Tennoji/Tsutenkaku/Nipponbashi area as the hotels are cheaper especially in the Tennoji/Tsutenkaku area (as it is one street away from the sketchy area of Osaka, you just need to make sure you don't cross the road).

I am staying at the Citadines Osaka this time where the old Takashiyama used to be. 0 mins walk to Den Den Town, 10 mins walk from Nankai-Namba/Dotonbori so it is fairly conveinient. Will report on how the hotel is in November

How is that area in Kyoto near Sanjo Keihan? We'll be staying at the Wing Kyoto Sanjo which is pretty close by.

I booked the Accor ibis Styles Osaka Namba. Haven't stayed there yet, but right next to Dotonbori and reviews were good. Fairly newish hotel I believe. The Dotonbori hotel (one with all the big heads in front of it) seems like a popular option as well. I've stayed at the Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka, which is right above the Uehonmachi station and one stop from the Osaka Namba station. Location was great as you don't leave the hotel to get to the subway, but the hotel itself was kinda meh.

If you're into nightlife, the ibis is located right at it. Tons of bars, clubs etc. around it and older ladies offering their "massage" services. Lots of convenience stores around and 24h supermarket with free cash withdrawal is a 5 min walk away (Foodium).

It feels fairly residential. I liked it and would stay in that area again. It is walking distance to some temples which makes it great for fall color viewing and not as busy of a neighborhood, despite being near Sanjo station. Plenty of restaurants within 1km on the other side of the river and distanced enough with a really nice stroll that making the walk back was enjoyable "wind down" rather than a chore. I might feel differently if I were making that walk in summer or rain, though, as I also visited in fall.

Do tell as I somehow occasionally find myself in the sketchy areas, much to my amusement (so not the target demographic). Is it Tobita Shinchi? I was happy to have come across so many restaurants while looking around Tennoji on Google Maps streetview until I was puzzled as I'd definitely have read of a period era neighborhood with so many restaurants. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tobita_Shinchi

Having traveled in war zones in Latin America and gun/drug-ridden neighborhoods in the US, I always laugh when I hear people talk about sketchy/dangerous areas in Japan. Women may want to use caution, but men need not worry about much more than being propositioned.

A couple times I've stayed in Shin-Imamiya for under �2,000/night and thought it an interesting experience. Quite a few backpackers make it down there as well.

One should be aware that while Japan is generally safe, you can still get into trouble if you throw caution to the wind. Among the crimes that visitors have encountered - particularly around drinking / clubbing / nightlife areas - are bar scams and drink spiking. A typical bar scam can start with a new "friend" introducing you to a bar and ends with a demand for thousands of dollars for a few drinks, enforced by some intimidating thugs. Drink spiking can happen when someone buys you a drink or when you leave a drink unattended, and ends with you being robbed or worse.

If you're accustomed to high crime zones, your natural level of situational awareness will probably keep you out of trouble. If you're not so streetsmart, you should keep in mind that Japan, like any country, is not a crime-free paradise.

Stayed here on last trip. Huge room. About 12,000Y for a double room. Pretty close to Osaka Umeda station.

https://www.hotelvischio-osaka.jp/?u...paign=hvo_1907

delete - was irrelevant to this topic

I booked the cross hotel right by dotonbori, was pretty affordable for the dates I wanted so I opted for one of the nicer rooms they offer

I personally like that area so the location was great for me.

Any opinion on the two Ibis Styles hotels in Kyoto? I'm looking for Early November and the "ibis Styles Kyoto Shijo" is like 40 USD a night