A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Osaka or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Boston, 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 high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is better known for its theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Osaka is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Osaka different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Boston and Osaka.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Osaka has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Osaka is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Osaka is not a theatre destination.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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!

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Osaka is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Boston?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Osaka does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Osaka does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Osaka does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Osaka does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Osaka is 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.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Couples?

Osaka is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Osaka or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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.

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

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Osaka and Boston.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. 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.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Is Osaka or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Boston?

In either Osaka or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Osaka because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Osaka is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this traditional big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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.

A weekend in Osaka or Boston?

Osaka is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Five days in Osaka or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a fun place to experience. In Boston, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural big city of Osaka. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the loyal big city of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka is in Asia and Boston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Osaka.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Boston?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Boston, 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 Boston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Osaka or Boston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Boston. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Osaka is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Boston. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Osaka is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Boston. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Osaka is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Boston. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Boston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Boston. The spring months attract visitors to Osaka because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the spring, Osaka is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Boston. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Osaka