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

Should you visit Osaka or Cardiff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Cardiff, 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 vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Osaka and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Cardiff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Cardiff, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cardiff is known for its impressive beauty. Osaka is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Osaka different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Osaka are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 Cardiff. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Osaka is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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!

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Cardiff has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Osaka. 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.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Cardiff?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Cardiff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for Families?

Osaka is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Osaka is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Cardiff offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Osaka is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Osaka is a great city 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.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Osaka or Cardiff Better for Students?

Osaka is a great destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Osaka is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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 Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Osaka or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Osaka and Cardiff 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.

Cardiff is somewhat walkable. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

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

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Osaka and Cardiff. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Osaka than in Cardiff. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cardiff.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Cardiff. 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 Cardiff. 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff?

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.

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this up-and-coming destination offers. This city 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 Cardiff?

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.

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

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.

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

A week in Osaka or Cardiff?

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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the industrial destination of Cardiff. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff 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 Cardiff is in Europe, 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 Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff 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 Cardiff Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Cardiff?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Cardiff, 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 Cardiff?

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 Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Osaka in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Osaka is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Cardiff. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Cardiff. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Cardiff. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Osaka is much warmer than Cardiff in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cardiff. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Cardiff. The winter months attract visitors to Osaka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Cardiff. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Osaka is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Cardiff. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Osaka