A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Osaka vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or Sapporo?

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

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

Sapporo

Sapporo is a snowy, vibrant, and laid-back city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Osaka and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Sapporo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Sapporo. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Sapporo attracts visitors for its skiing. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Sapporo is famous for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival.

How is Osaka different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sapporo and Osaka. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is an excellent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Osaka is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Osaka is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Osaka or Sapporo?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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 can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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!

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Sapporo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Sapporo?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Families?

Osaka and Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Osaka and Sapporo are both high quality 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 Sapporo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Osaka or Sapporo Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Sapporo 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 Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Is Osaka or Sapporo 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, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sapporo. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

Is Osaka or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very walkable destination. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Sapporo?

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

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

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Sapporo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this snowy big city 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 Sapporo?

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Sapporo. 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 Sapporo?

Osaka is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Osaka or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and skiing around the vibrant big city of Sapporo. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Sapporo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sapporo 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 Sapporo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Sapporo?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Sapporo. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Sapporo, 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 Sapporo?

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 Sapporo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Sapporo. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sapporo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Osaka is a little warmer than Sapporo in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Osaka usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Sapporo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Sapporo. Many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Sapporo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Sapporo averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sapporo. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sapporo. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Sapporo in the Winter?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Sapporo can be very cold during winter. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Sapporo in the Spring?

Both Sapporo and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Sapporo because of the activities around the city.

Osaka is much warmer than Sapporo in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Osaka often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Osaka