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

Should you visit Osaka or Kyoto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Kyoto, 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 vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Osaka travel costs.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Kyoto travel costs.

Osaka and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Kyoto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Kyoto, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Osaka is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kyoto is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Osaka different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Kyoto 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 Kyoto that are not to be missed. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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

Osaka is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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!

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Osaka or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Osaka is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Osaka or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Kyoto is revered around the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Kyoto?

Osaka is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Osaka make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Osaka or Kyoto More Beautiful?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kyoto is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's one of the most historical cities in Japan and it has many beautiful Buddhist temples, gardens, and imperial palaces. It's particularly striking during the cherry blossom season.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Osaka or Kyoto Better for Families?

Osaka and Kyoto are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. 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.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Is Osaka or Kyoto Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Kyoto 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 Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Osaka or Kyoto Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Kyoto are high quality destinations for students.

Osaka is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

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

Osaka is renowned for its public transit. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Osaka has a great 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Is Osaka or Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Kyoto?

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

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

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

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

Each neighborhood in Osaka has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Kyoto?

Osaka is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Osaka. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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

A week in Osaka or Kyoto?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant big city of Osaka. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto 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 Kyoto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Kyoto?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 28°C (82°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

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

Kyoto 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 July than Kyoto. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Kyoto. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kyoto. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Kyoto. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Osaka is a little warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Osaka in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Kyoto. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 15°C (59°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kyoto during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Osaka