A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Osaka vs. Kamakura for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Osaka or Kamakura?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Kamakura, 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. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a quaint, charming, and laid back coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Osaka and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Kamakura?

You'll generally find more things to do in Osaka than Kamakura. Osaka is bigger than Kamakura, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Osaka is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Kamakura is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Kamakura is well known for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Osaka different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Osaka that are not to be missed. 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.

Many visitors head to Kamakura specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

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!

Kamakura has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit 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.

Kamakura has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Kamakura is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

Kamakura has a beach worth visiting. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a well-known place for its historic old town. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kamakura. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Kamakura is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Kamakura has hiking trails worth exploring. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Kamakura?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Families?

Osaka is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Kamakura is a family-friendly city. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Osaka and Kamakura are both very good 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 Kamakura frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Is Osaka or Kamakura Better for Students?

Osaka is a well-known place for students. However, Kamakura is not popular with students.

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.

Kamakura is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Kamakura has some public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Osaka or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Osaka and Kamakura are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Kamakura is somewhat walkable. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Osaka or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Osaka than Kamakura because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamakura.

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

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 Kamakura, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this ancient destination offers. This coastal 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 Kamakura?

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 Kamakura. 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 Kamakura?

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.

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

A week in Osaka or Kamakura?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid back destination of Kamakura. 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 Kamakura, we can see that Kamakura is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Kamakura would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kamakura 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 Kamakura Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Kamakura?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kamakura. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Kamakura, 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 Kamakura?

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 Kamakura in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Kamakura. Many visitors come to Osaka in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Osaka is around the same temperature as Kamakura. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Kamakura averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Kamakura. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Kamakura in the Autumn?

Both Kamakura and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Kamakura because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. It's quite rainy in Osaka. In October, Osaka usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Kamakura in the Winter?

Both Kamakura and Osaka during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Osaka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kamakura this time of year.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Kamakura in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Kamakura fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Kamakura. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Kamakura. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Kamakura in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Kamakura. The activities around the city are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamakura for the beaches.

In the spring, Osaka is around the same temperature as Kamakura. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Kamakura averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Osaka usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Osaka