A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park, 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. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Osaka travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka. Although Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Osaka has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Osaka is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Osaka is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Osaka different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Osaka is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Osaka are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Osaka is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Osaka is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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!

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a well-known place for its old town. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Osaka to see the historical old town. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Mount Aspiring National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Osaka is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park are both superb 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park are both superb 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 Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

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.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Osaka is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Osaka is very popular for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Osaka Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Osaka because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this remote destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Osaka has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Osaka is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a fun place to experience. In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant city of Osaka. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. 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.

You'll find around the rugged destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Osaka and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park 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. Even though Osaka is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Osaka Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.