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

Should you visit Osaka or Kanazawa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Kanazawa, 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. See Osaka travel costs.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a well-preserved, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Osaka and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Kanazawa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Osaka than Kanazawa. Osaka is bigger than Kanazawa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. 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. Kanazawa is well known for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

How is Osaka different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Osaka from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Kanazawa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

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

Osaka is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and 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!

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kanazawa. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is very popular for nightlife. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Osaka is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is great for its historic old town. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Many people head to Kanazawa to see the old town. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Kanazawa?

Osaka is very popular for shopping. Also, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Osaka is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly place to visit. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Osaka is great for romance. Also, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanazawa 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Osaka is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Kanazawa is a good city to visit for students. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

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

Osaka is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Osaka has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

Kanazawa has a few public transit options. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

Is Osaka or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

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 Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Osaka or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Osaka than Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa.

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

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 Kanazawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This 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 Kanazawa?

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 Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa?

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.

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

A week in Osaka or Kanazawa?

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 cultural destination of Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa, we can see that Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Kanazawa?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kanazawa. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Kanazawa, 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 Kanazawa?

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 Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Kanazawa. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Osaka is around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 26°C (78°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Kanazawa. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year.

In October, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 155 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets less rain in October than Kanazawa. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Kanazawa in the Winter?

Both Kanazawa and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kanazawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kanazawa. Osaka is much warmer than Kanazawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Kanazawa in the Spring?

Both Kanazawa and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Osaka is a little warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kanazawa. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Osaka