Living in Itami

The central station area of Itami City, home to Osaka Airport (Itami Airport). The old merchant-town charm, with a deep sake-brewing history that is said to make it the birthplace of seishu (refined sake) in the Edo period, coexists with a large shopping mall connected directly to the JR station. It is distinctly cheaper than downtown Osaka and Kobe, but Sannomiya requires a transfer, so access to Osaka is far easier, and since the Hankyu Itami Line is a roundabout route, JR is the practical way to get around.

This is a practical commuter town of the Hanshin corridor beside Osaka Airport, served by the Hankyu Itami Line and the JR Fukuchiyama Line. It has the old charm known for its shopping streets and sake brewing, and reasonable rents make the burden light for families commuting to both Osaka and Kobe. The airport is close, so it is worth knowing that some areas are affected by aircraft noise. It is a solid choice for families who want low housing costs along with access to both city centers.