I'll be passing through Osaka next week, arriving at Itami around 6pm and then departing Kansai at mid-day the next day, and will be staying at the Sheraton Miyako.

I realize the timing of my itinerary isn't optimal for sightseeing trips (but I've visited Kobe, Himeji, Kyoto, and the castle in Osaka already), so wanted to get suggestions on the part of Osaka that is most lively to explore at night.

Thanks for any advice!

Namba would be the place to go for night life in Osaka. Just take the Kintetsu Namba subway line from the Uehonmachi stn near the hotel.

Off the top of my head, I can only think of Namba area and the Osakako area. Although more people tend towards the Namba area at night. Just my best suggestion based on former stays in Osaka.

Sanosuke!

Umeda near Osaka station (NOT Shin-Osaka) for izakaya (gastropubs) and other eating and drinking, Amerika-mura in Namba for "clubbing".

Nightlife in Kobe is also quite fun and connections from and to Osaka good.

I would recommend Namba over Umeda just because it's much more of a "classic Osaka" area. Umeda is pretty much like any other big-city environment, but Namba has much more local charm, what with the Dotombori neon lights and the giant crab...

Takoyaki/Kushikatsu/Negiyaki....that's all I remember about Osaka !

Guys (and girls),

Need some help. I plan to take a day trip to Osaka from Kyoto by train. Can someone recommend some good places to visit? I will probably head out at 7/8AM and stay in Osaka until 8PM before taking the train back to Kyoto.

Thanks

John

Osaka Castle ?
Spa World ?
Namba (at night) ?
Umeda Sky Building ?
Universal Studios ?

-mrploddy

Kyoto? Two Words. Johny Hillwalker. That's a good half day and one of the best walking tours I've done anywhere. It's full day if you continue on at the end of his tour and do the Philosophers walk on your own.

I'm in Osaka as well most of next week (at the Sheraton Miyako no less) and have been deliberating side trips. I've already done Kyoto, so I'm looking at side trips like Mount Koya, Nara, Himeji, etc.

And what about okonomiyaki?! (pancakes with egg and toppings?!)

The philosophers' walk is a great way to pass time, that is for sure.

Sanosuke!

That is where the Negiyaki comes in!

negi-yaki - - pancake with scallion and squid served with special worcester sauce, mayonnaise, aonori and dancing fish flakes ?

I think I'll pass on that one, thank you.

Sanosuke!

Assume you check in at Miyako at 8PM, you still have time to experience the REAL Osaka at night. With the convenience of subways, you have time to do at least these (as many posts suggested, and perhaps I am echoing in approval with additional details):
Namba - at night is quite unique with Osaka and not to be missed. Your hotel is but 2 stations (west bound) away by subway. Here you will find every street and shops are lit up; and scores of restaurants. Dining in one of the restaurants here should be part of your Osaka experience.
If you have an interest (and still have time) in checking out the latest in consumer electronics, I'd head off toward Yodobashi Camera near Umeda Station. In fact, this should be your first stop before they close. Do check opening hours before going though.

Actually I prefer the one with wagyu beef tendons!

years ago I stayed one night at the osaka station hotel, and wandered for hours and had heaps of fun in the entertainment area just opposite.

Omeda i think it was. Lots of bars, restaurants, pachinko palours, great fun.

Gave me an insight to Japanese life after work.

Adam