A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. New Orleans for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or New Orleans?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or New Orleans, 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 colorful, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or New Orleans?

Visitors will generally find more to do in New Orleans than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than New Orleans, New Orleans has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. New Orleans is better known for its music and quaint atmosphere, while Osaka is more popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities. New Orleans is more touristy than Osaka and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city.

The French Quarter

How is Osaka different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Osaka and New Orleans both to be first-rate destinations.

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!

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

Both Osaka and New Orleans have first-rate vibes after the sun sets.

People head to Osaka just to party. 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.

The nightlife in New Orleans is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Osaka is not a live music destination.

New Orleans has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

Osaka and New Orleans both have high quality historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

New Orleans is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or New Orleans?

Osaka is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Families?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options 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.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Osaka or New Orleans Better for Students?

Osaka is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. 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 generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Osaka or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Osaka and New Orleans 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.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or New Orleans?

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

Families should spend more time in Osaka than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Osaka is a colorful city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In New Orleans, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this festive destination offers. 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.

A weekend in Osaka or New Orleans?

Osaka is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Orleans. 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 New Orleans?

The high energy city of Osaka offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of New Orleans. 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 New Orleans?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the energetic destination of New Orleans. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or New Orleans?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of New Orleans. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and New Orleans, 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 New Orleans?

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 New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 264 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as New Orleans. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or New Orleans in the Autumn?

Both New Orleans and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Osaka is generally around the same temperature as New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and New Orleans fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 240 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than New Orleans. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and New Orleans. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Osaka is much colder than New Orleans in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and New Orleans fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Osaka usually receives less sunshine than New Orleans during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or New Orleans in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as New Orleans. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Osaka is cooler than New Orleans. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and New Orleans averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than New Orleans. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than New Orleans. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Osaka