Shoichi Imamura is an Osaka-based international business consultant. He has lived in Osaka all of his life.

Where do you live and why?

In the Hirano district on the western part of the city, about 20 minutes from Tennoji and 40 minutes from Umeda. It’s a district with a large number of foreign residents, which gives it a more international flavour.

What advice would you give a tourist?

The must-see areas are the Umeda and Shinsaibashi districts, but especially the latter. Shinsaibashi has the best restaurants, traditional Japanese cultural events like kabuki theatre, and all sorts of shops that are, compared to Umeda, relatively cheap.

What advice would you give a visiting businessperson?

Understand that the best hotels are all concentrated in the Umeda district.

If you have to head off to Tokyo or elsewhere, it’s best to get a hotel there, as Umeda is close to both Osaka airport, which has domestic flights, and to the bullet train station.

What and where have been your most memorable meals?

Trader Vic’s, in the Hotel New Otani is definitely memorable for not only the food but the great night view of Osaka Castle. I also like Ashoka Indian restaurant in Umeda, as it’s got good food and friendly staff.

Where would you take a client to wow them?

Definitely to any of the restaurants in the Ritz-Carlton. They are all good, and the service is superb.

What do you miss about Osaka when away?

The people, the efficient train system, and the fact that, unlike most countries, you don’t have to worry about tipping.