A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Osaka vs. Dewa Sanzan for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

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

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

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a sacred, remote, and traditional religious site. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums.

Osaka and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka. Although Osaka and Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan is known for its hiking. Osaka is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan 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. Dewa Sanzan is popular for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Osaka different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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!

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Dewa Sanzan 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.

Dewa Sanzan does not have a historic old town.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly city. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan Better for Students?

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

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.

Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Visitors in Osaka can get around quickly with the extensive 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Osaka or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Osaka is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options 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.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

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

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

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

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Osaka is a cultural city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Dewa Sanzan, many people enjoy the museums that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This religious site 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 Dewa Sanzan?

Osaka is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

The cultural city of Osaka offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Dewa Sanzan is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 museums around the sacred destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Dewa Sanzan, we can see that Osaka is more expensive. And not only is Dewa Sanzan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dewa Sanzan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan.

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

When is the best time to visit Osaka or Dewa Sanzan?

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 Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking.

In July, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 124 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year.

Osaka is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun.

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Dewa Sanzan. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dewa Sanzan for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dewa Sanzan. In the winter, Osaka is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about -1°C (30°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Dewa Sanzan. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city.

In April, Osaka is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 188 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Dewa Sanzan. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dewa Sanzan and Osaka