A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. Ottawa for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or Ottawa?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Ottawa, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Osaka travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a welcoming, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Ottawa travel costs.

Osaka and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Ottawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Ottawa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is more touristy than Ottawa and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Ottawa is famous for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Osaka different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Many visitors head to Ottawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Osaka is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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!

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Ottawa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Ottawa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Ottawa?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Osaka specifically to go shopping. 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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for Families?

Osaka is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Osaka is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Osaka or Ottawa Better for Students?

Osaka is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Osaka is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Ottawa is popular with students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Is Osaka or Ottawa 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. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Ottawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Is Osaka or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Osaka and Ottawa are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Ottawa?

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

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

Osaka is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Ottawa, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. 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 Ottawa?

Osaka is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Osaka or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant big city of Osaka. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Ottawa. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Ottawa?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ottawa. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?

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 Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Osaka in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ottawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Osaka is a little warmer than Ottawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Ottawa. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Ottawa during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Ottawa in the Autumn?

Both Ottawa and Osaka during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Ottawa averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Ottawa. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Ottawa. The winter months attract visitors to Osaka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ottawa this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ottawa in the winter. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Ottawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Ottawa. The activities around the city are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

Osaka is much warmer than Ottawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Ottawa. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Osaka