A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Osaka vs. Nikko for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Osaka or Nikko?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Nikko, 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Osaka and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Osaka than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Osaka is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. 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. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Osaka different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Nikko 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 Nikko that are not to be missed. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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!

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Osaka or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Osaka is a world class party destination. 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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Osaka or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko 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 Nikko is revered around the world. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

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 Osaka or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Nikko?

Osaka is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Osaka or Nikko Better for Families?

Osaka and Nikko 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.

Nikko is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Osaka or Nikko Better for Couples?

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

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Nikko 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 Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Is Osaka or Nikko Better for Students?

Osaka is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko is not popular with 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.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Osaka has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere 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.

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Is Osaka or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko 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.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Osaka or Nikko. In our opinion, Osaka has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Osaka than Nikko. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

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

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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town 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 Nikko?

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 Nikko. 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 Nikko?

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.

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Nikko?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful 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.

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Nikko, we can see that Osaka 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 Nikko Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Nikko?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

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 Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Nikko. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Osaka is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko 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 Nikko. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Nikko. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets less rain in October than Nikko. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. Osaka is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Nikko during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives more rain than Nikko. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Osaka is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Nikko. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Osaka