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

Should you visit Osaka or Dallas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Dallas, 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. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dallas

Dallas is a chic, active, and upscale 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 and Dallas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Dallas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Dallas, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more touristy than Dallas 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. Dallas is popular for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture.

How is Osaka different from Dallas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dallas can be an interesting and educational experience. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

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

Osaka is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Osaka has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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!

Dallas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Dallas has a large number of nightlife venues. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a well-known place for its old town. However, Dallas does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Dallas does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Dallas?

Osaka is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for Families?

Osaka and Dallas are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. 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.

Dallas is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for Couples?

Osaka and Dallas are both excellent to visit as a couple.

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.

Couples visit Dallas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Dallas is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Dallas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there are a couple of hostels around town, this isn't a popular destination for the backpacker crowd.

Is Osaka or Dallas Better for Students?

Osaka is a well-known place for students. However, Dallas is not a good city for its student-friendly activities.

Osaka is very popular with students. 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.

Dallas is a decent spot for students. There are a couple of universities and colleges in the area that keep things interesting for students.

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

Osaka is renowned for its public transit. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Dallas has some public transit options. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

Is Osaka or Dallas a more walkable city?

Osaka is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dallas is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Dallas is generally not a very walkable city. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

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

Should I spend more time in Dallas or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Dallas?

It's fun to spend time in either Osaka or Dallas. In our opinion, Osaka has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Osaka than Dallas. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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 Dallas, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this upscale destination offers. 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 Dallas?

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 Dallas. 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 Dallas?

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.

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

A week in Osaka or Dallas?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy 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 food and shopping around the upscale destination of Dallas. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Dallas?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dallas. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Dallas, 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 Dallas?

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 Dallas in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Dallas. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dallas because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally cooler than Dallas. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Dallas fluctuates around 88°F (31°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dallas. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Dallas. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dallas receives 337 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Dallas. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Dallas receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Dallas in the Autumn?

Both Dallas and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Dallas this time of year.

Osaka is cooler than Dallas in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Dallas fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Dallas. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Dallas during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Dallas receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Dallas. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Dallas in the Winter?

Both Dallas and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dallas for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Osaka is cooler than Dallas. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Dallas averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In the winter, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Dallas. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dallas receives 183 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Dallas. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dallas receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Dallas in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Dallas. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dallas in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Osaka is generally cooler than Dallas. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Dallas fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dallas this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Dallas during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Dallas receives 251 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 Dallas. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dallas and Osaka