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

Should you visit Osaka or Honolulu?

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

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

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Osaka and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Osaka is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Honolulu is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

How is Osaka different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Honolulu 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 Honolulu that are not to be missed. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Honolulu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Honolulu?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Honolulu are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Is Osaka or Honolulu Better for Students?

Osaka is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

Is Osaka or Honolulu 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, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Osaka or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is a very walkable destination. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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 Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Honolulu?

Both Osaka and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Osaka. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Honolulu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic big city offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Honolulu?

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Osaka, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Honolulu?

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. In Honolulu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Honolulu?

Osaka is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

In Honolulu, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this multi-cultural big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Honolulu?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Osaka is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Honolulu. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Honolulu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Osaka is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu 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 Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Osaka is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Osaka is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Osaka