Osaka/Tennoji

Tennōji (大阪 天王寺) is a city district of Osaka.

Understand
On the southeast side of Osaka, Tennōji is named after the nearby ancient temple of Shitennōji, which dates back to 593. Today it's better known as a major train hub with plenty of shopping and eating options. The south side of the district is a working class neighborhood, and Shinsekai (新世界, "New World"), built in 1912 in conscious imitation of New York and Paris, has acquired a bit of a rough reputation.

By plane
The fastest trains between Kansai International Airport and Tennoji station are "Ltd.Express Haruka" which operates by JR West. The journey takes approximately 32 minutes at a cost of ¥1760: ¥1030 regular fare + ¥730 limited express fare.

By train
Tennoji is a major train hub and well connected not just to Osaka, but other major cities in the region. The JR Kyoto Line links to Shin-Osaka (for Shinkansen services) and Kyoto, the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara, while the subway Midosuji Line connects to Namba and Umeda and the JR Loop Line to the rest of the city.

Stay safe
Ironically, the promised "New World" of Shinsekai has turned into one of the poorest neighborhoods in all Japan, with a large homeless population. Visitors are highly unlikely to be targeted by criminals, but it's still not the most savoury place in Osaka to hang around, especially after dark.