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

Should you visit Osaka or Hiroshima?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Hiroshima, 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 cultural, high energy, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a meaningful, park-filled, and memorable city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Hiroshima?

You'll generally find more things to do in Osaka than Hiroshima. Osaka is bigger than Hiroshima, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Osaka is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Hiroshima is well known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Osaka different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima that are not to be missed. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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!

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great city for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Hiroshima?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Osaka. 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.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Osaka is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Osaka is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Osaka is a great city for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Osaka is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Osaka is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Osaka is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima 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. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Is Osaka or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Hiroshima is a very walkable destination. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas 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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Hiroshima?

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

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

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this meaningful destination offers. 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 Hiroshima?

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the high energy city of Osaka. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Osaka or Hiroshima?

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the memorable destination of Hiroshima. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Osaka and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Hiroshima?

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

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 Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Hiroshima. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Osaka is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hiroshima during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Osaka usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hiroshima. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hiroshima can be very cold during winter. Osaka is a little warmer than Hiroshima in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hiroshima. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Osaka is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima 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 April than Hiroshima. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Osaka