A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Osaka for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Koh Chang or Osaka?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Osaka, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a serene, tranquil, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Osaka

Osaka is a colorful, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Koh Chang and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Osaka?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Osaka than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Osaka is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Osaka is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Osaka?

Osaka is very popular for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Osaka from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Osaka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Osaka is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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!

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is very popular for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Osaka is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Osaka to see the historical old town. 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.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Osaka?

Osaka is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Osaka. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Osaka are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Osaka is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang and Osaka are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

Is Koh Chang or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Osaka is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Osaka has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Koh Chang or Osaka a more walkable city?

Osaka is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Chang or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Chang due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Koh Chang. 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 Koh Chang than Osaka. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Chang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka than Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang or Osaka?

In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this idyllic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Osaka?

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Osaka. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Osaka?

You'll find food and nightlife around the scenic destination of Koh Chang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in 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 Koh Chang and Osaka, we can see that Osaka is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Osaka?

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

Should I visit Koh Chang or Osaka in the Summer?

Both Osaka and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In July, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Osaka. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Koh Chang usually receives less sunshine than Osaka during summer. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Osaka in the Autumn?

Both Osaka and Koh Chang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Osaka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 159 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 Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Osaka in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Osaka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Osaka averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Osaka during winter. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Osaka in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Osaka. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang this time of the year. In the spring, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in April than Osaka. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Koh Chang