A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Osaka vs. Atami for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or Atami?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Atami, 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.

Osaka

Osaka is a colorful, vibrant, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Atami

Atami is a authentic, overlooked, and nostalgic town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Osaka and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Atami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka. Although Osaka and Atami are both popular with visitors, Osaka has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Osaka is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Atami is known for its beaches. Osaka is more touristy than Atami and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Atami is popular for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Osaka different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Osaka or Atami?

Osaka is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Osaka are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

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

Osaka is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Osaka have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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!

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Osaka is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Beaches?

Atami is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

Atami has a beach worth visiting. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a very popular place for its old town. However, Atami 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.

Atami does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Atami?

Osaka is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Osaka draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Atami to go shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Families?

Osaka is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Osaka is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Couples?

Osaka is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Osaka makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Atami is a good city for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Osaka or Atami Better for Students?

Osaka is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Atami 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.

Atami is not popular with students.

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

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

Osaka has a great public transit system. 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 Atami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Osaka or Atami a more walkable city?

Osaka and Atami are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Atami is somewhat walkable. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Atami or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Atami?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Osaka or Atami to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Osaka than Atami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 1-2 days is enough time in Atami.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Osaka has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

In Atami, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nostalgic destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Osaka or Atami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. 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.

Five days in Osaka or Atami?

Osaka is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Osaka. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Osaka or Atami?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful big city of Osaka. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Atami. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Osaka and Atami, we can see that Osaka is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Atami?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Atami, 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 Osaka or Atami?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Osaka or Atami in the Summer?

Both Atami and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atami for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Atami. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Atami fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Atami during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atami. It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives less rain than Atami. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Atami in the Autumn?

Both Atami and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Atami in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Atami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Atami fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Atami. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 130 hours of full sun.

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets less rain in October than Atami. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Atami in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Atami. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Atami for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Osaka is around the same temperature as Atami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Atami averages at about 5°C (42°F).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Atami during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Atami. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Atami in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Atami. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Atami because of the beaches.

In April, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Atami. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Atami. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 161 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atami. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets less rain in April than Atami. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atami and Osaka