A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hat Yai vs. Osaka for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hat Yai or Osaka?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Osaka can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a cultural, lively, and festive city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Osaka?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Hat Yai. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Hat Yai is famous for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples.

How is Hat Yai different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Osaka and Hat Yai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Osaka?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Osaka on the map. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Is the Food Better in Hat Yai or Osaka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Hat Yai and Osaka offer a number of first-rate restaurants to choose from.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

Eat your way through Osaka, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Osaka is a world class party destination. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hat Yai. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Hat Yai does not have a historic old town.

Osaka is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Hat Yai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Osaka?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Hat Yai is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Osaka is a world class destination for shoppers. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Families?

Osaka is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Osaka is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Couples?

Osaka is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

Osaka is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is notable for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Osaka is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is notable for students. However, Hat Yai is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Osaka. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

Hat Yai is not popular with students.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Osaka has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

Is Hat Yai or Osaka a more walkable city?

Osaka is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

Osaka is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Hat Yai Worth Visiting? and Is Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Hat Yai or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Osaka due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Hat Yai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Osaka, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Osaka than Hat Yai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Osaka that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka than Hat Yai if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Osaka.

One day in Hat Yai or Osaka?

In Hat Yai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this festive destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Hat Yai or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hat Yai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Osaka has to offer.

Five days in Hat Yai or Osaka?

Hat Yai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hat Yai. Lots of people come for the food. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Osaka is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hat Yai or Osaka?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Hat Yai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hat Yai and Osaka, we can see that Osaka is more expensive. And not only is Hat Yai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hat Yai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hat Yai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Osaka would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Osaka than you might in Hat Yai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hat Yai Expensive? and Is Osaka Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hat Yai or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hat Yai. When comparing the sizes of Hat Yai and Osaka, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Hat Yai or Osaka?

Osaka has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hat Yai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Osaka in the Summer?

Both Osaka and Hat Yai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Hat Yai is around the same temperature as Osaka in the summer. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Hat Yai. In the summer, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in July than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Osaka in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In the autumn, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Osaka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hat Yai in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Osaka averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during autumn. Hat Yai gets 182 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hat Yai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Osaka in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Osaka. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hat Yai is generally much warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 28°C (82°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hat Yai this time of the year. In the winter, Hat Yai often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun.

Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in January than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season.

Should I visit Hat Yai or Osaka in the Spring?

Both Osaka and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Osaka in the spring for the activities around the city.

Hat Yai is much warmer than Osaka in the spring. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 30°C (85°F) in April, and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during spring. Hat Yai gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. In April, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Osaka. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hat Yai is January to April. The rainy season in Hat Yai is May to December.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Hat Yai