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

Should you visit Osaka or Singapore?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka or Singapore, 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Osaka travel costs.

Singapore

Singapore is a modern, global, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Singapore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Singapore travel costs.

Osaka and Singapore: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Osaka or Singapore?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Singapore than Osaka. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Singapore is very popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Osaka attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and historical sights. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Singapore is famous for its blend of cultures, its lush gardens, and its clean streets. It is also well known for Merlion Park Waterfront.

How is Osaka different from Singapore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Osaka
Singapore

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Osaka on the map. 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 Singapore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The mix of cultures and unique history have led to museums and landmarks that mix historic and modern. The Merlion statue in Merlion Park has become a symbol of the city. For an educational experience, head to the Asian Civilizations Museum, and to see colonial architecture check out Fort Canning Park.


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

Osaka
Singapore

Foodies will find both Osaka and Singapore both to be fantastic 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 Singapore have been singled out for their culinary prowess. From local dives to five star restaurants, the city's food scene is all about diversity. Make sure you try Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and Hokkien prawn mee.

Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Nightlife?

Osaka
Singapore

Osaka is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Singapore is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Singapore. It's all about the glitzy nightclubs and exclusive cocktail bars. Head to Clarke Quay, Marina Bay Sands, or one of the many rooftop bars to experience the best of Singapore's nightlife. Do keep in mind that the city has a high alcohol tax, and strict rules around drinking in public places during certain hours.

Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Music?

Osaka
Singapore

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

Singapore has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. As a globalized city, you'll find almost any type of music here. Popular music venues include Timbre, Zouk, and the Crazy Elephant.

Osaka is not a live music destination.


Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Resorts?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Singapore offers an unforgettable resort vacation. From sleek high rises with rooftop pools to family-friendly resorts with kid oriented activities, this city has it all. Popular resorts include Oasia Resort Sentosa, Dusit Thani Laguna, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is not a good area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Most people don't go snorkeling in Singapore. The best place to snorkel in the area is Pulau Hantu.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Beaches?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

Singapore has a beach worth visiting. You'll find most of the area's best beaches on Sentosa Island. There's a 2 kilometer long artificial beach that is split into Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, and Tanjong Beach.

Osaka is not a beach destination.


Is Osaka or Singapore Better for its Old Town?

Osaka
Singapore

Osaka is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Singapore 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.

Singapore does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Singapore?

Osaka
Singapore

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Osaka and Singapore.

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.

Singapore is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find tons of malls along Orchard Road, but for a more eclectic shopping experience head to the Chinatown Street Market.

Is Osaka or Singapore More Beautiful?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Singapore attracts visitors from all around. It is a beautiful city with many lights and colorful neighborhoods.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Families?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Singapore is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With places like Sentosa and Universal Studios, there really is no shortage of activities for kids. There's also a zoo, an aquarium, and bird park, and many kid-friendly museums.

Osaka is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Osaka or Singapore Better for Couples?

Osaka
Singapore

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

Singapore has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city has stunning hotels, amazing restaurants, and plenty of fun activities that are perfect for couples.

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 Singapore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore 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 Singapore, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Many backpackers use this city as a starting or ending point for their Southeast Asian backpacking trip. It's modern and glamourous, but still has plenty of backpacker-friendly and budget-friendly options.

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 Singapore Better for Students?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Singapore is a great destination for students. As such a diverse city, you'll find plenty of international students as well as expats to hang out with.

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.

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

Osaka
Singapore

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Osaka and Singapore.

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.

Visitors in Singapore can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is the MRT subway system as well as buses that travel all over the city.

Is Osaka or Singapore a more walkable city?

Osaka
Singapore

Singapore is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Singapore. It's possible to walk in most areas in the city center. There are also park connectors that are nice for taking a stroll or going for a run.

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 Singapore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Singapore or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Singapore?

Both Osaka and Singapore have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Singapore than in Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-7 days is enough time in Singapore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Singapore than Osaka 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 Singapore.


  • How many days in Osaka or Singapore? Ideal Length of Stay
    Osaka 2-4 
    Singapore 2-7

One day in Osaka or Singapore?

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Singapore, many people enjoy the live music and food that this colorful big city offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Singapore?

People visit Osaka because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Singapore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Singapore?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Osaka. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Singapore is a fun place to experience. In Singapore, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Osaka or Singapore?

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Singapore, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this modern big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Singapore, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Singapore.


Which place is cheaper, Singapore or Osaka?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Osaka is $105, while the average daily cost in Singapore is $171. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Osaka and Singapore in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Osaka $45
    Singapore $98
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Osaka $90
    Singapore $196
Compare Hotels in Osaka and Singapore

Looking for a hotel in Osaka or Singapore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Osaka


Hotels in Singapore


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Osaka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Osaka $13
    Singapore $10
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Osaka

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Osaka:


  • Subway
    $7.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Osaka

Also for Osaka, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Luggage Voucher for Kansai KIX Airport Transfer Service: $15
  • Kansai Airport Transfer: $20
  • Private Airport transfer Kansai Intl. Airport(KIX) to OSAKA CITY: $21
  • Osaka (Itami) Airport ITM Share Transfer to/from Osaka: $43
  • Osaka Itami Airport to/from Osaka City: Shared Transfer: $46
  • Osaka International Airport (ITM) Private Transfer to Osaka/Kyoto: $46
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Osaka Itami Airport to Osaka City: $55
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Osaka City to Osaka Itami Airport: $56
  • Japan Railway Station Shared Arrival Transfer : Shin Osaka Station to Osaka City: $69
  • Airport Transfer from Osaka city to Kansai airport: $70
  • Kansai Intl. Airport (KIX) Private Transfer to/from Osaka: $78
  • Private arrival transfer from Osaka Itami International airport to Kyoto City: $80

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Singapore

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Singapore:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Singapore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Singapore:

  • travel to zoo transfer ride one way: $224
  • Wondrous Wildlife @ River Wonders + Roundtrip Transfers: $60
  • Travel zoo one way transfer trip: $55
  • Universal Studios Entry Ticket & Hotel Transfer: $179
  • Singapore Zoo & Night Safari with Hotel Transfer: $173
  • Night Safari with Tram Ride and Private Transfer: $115
  • Night Safari Ticket, Tram Ride, & Return Transfer: $69
  • Marina Bay Sands & Gardens By The Bay & Transfer: $144
  • Half-Day City Tour with Hotel Transfer: $35
  • City Transfer to Airport/Seaport Terminal: $52
  • Changi Airport to/from Hotel Private Transfer: $28
  • Changi Airport (SIN) Private One-Way Transfer: $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Osaka or Singapore?

Prices for flights to both Singapore and Osaka change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Osaka $43
    Singapore $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Osaka

For Osaka, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2-Hour Local Street Food Tour – Dotonbori & Namba: $21
  • 【Special Offer】Sushi Making Osaka!Cooking Class in Japan!: $26
  • 2-Hour Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour: $27
  • Osaka" Hidden" Private Local Street Food Tour: $30
  • Osaka : Real Japanese food tour: $33
  • 2ours 5 Restaurants Private Hidden Local Food Tour: $36
  • Experience Cooking Takoyaki in its Birthplace, Osaka: $44
  • Deep Backstreets Walking Tour with Dinner Option: $48
  • Okonomiyaki Cooking Class with Beer or Soft Drink: $51
  • Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours (Option to add Dinner): $54
  • Japanese home cooking class in Osaka Umeda: $60
  • Deep Food Tour and Bar Hopping in Namba: $62

Typical Food Prices in Singapore

Some typical examples of dining costs in Singapore are as follows:


  • Breakfast
    $4.49
  • Sugarcane Juice
    $1.47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Singapore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Singapore.

  • Singapore : Traditional Snacks Cooking Class: $37
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $47
  • Secrets of Singapore Kick Scooter Tour with Dinner: $48
  • Singapore Food Tours - Chinatown Complex Hawker: $56
  • Hawker Culture Food Tour and Sightseeing: $68
  • Eat Snap Katong Walking Food Tour: $73
  • Guided Street Food Tour at Night: $75
  • Local Hawker Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • Private Korean Cooking Class in Balmoral Road: $75
  • Local Food Tour: $82
  • Little India Hawker Street Food Tour: $82
  • Hands-on Cooking Class with Cultural Immersion: $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Osaka $20
    Singapore $32
Typical Entertainment Prices in Osaka

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Osaka's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Osaka Aquarium (for 2)
    $30

Tours and Activities in Osaka

For Osaka, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living Ticket: $4.07
  • Kamigata Ukiyo-e Museum Admission Ticket: $4.60
  • Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum:Ukiyo-e Woodblock Printing Experience: $5.25
  • Tsutenkaku Tower Entry Ticket: $6.56
  • 【Day】Dotonbori's Bridges 20-Minute Cruise: $9.85
  • Dotonbori District Sightseeing Cruise & Beer Discount: $9.85
  • Osaka Dotonbori Wonder Cruise: $10
  • Osaka Bay: Santa Maria Cruise Boarding Pass: $11
  • Osaka Food Origins: Exploration Game and Tour: $11
  • teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket: $12
  • Abeno Harukas 300 Observatory E-Ticket: $13
  • General Admission ticket to ABENO HARUKAS in Osaka: $13

Tours and Activities in Singapore

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Singapore are as follows:

  • Private Tour Singapore Street Food & Night Tour: $65
  • Singapore River Cruise, Light Shows and Twilight Tour : $99
  • VIP private Night Tour + Light Show, Night market & more : $282
  • #16Hrs Melaka Highlights Van Tour from Singapore w' Tour Guide: $136
  • #19Hrs Kuala Lumpur & Melaka Van Tour from Singapore w' TourGuide: $185
  • 2-4 days in Singapore Guided Tour Pass: $126
  • 3 Ethnic Neighborhoods & UNESCO Street Food / Cultural Experience: $153
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Tour in Singapore: $245
  • 3hrs Singapore Walking Tour: Chinatown-Kampong Glam: $90
  • 5-Hour Peranakan Heritage Tour with Peranakan Tile Painting : $137
  • 6-Hours Singapore Tour in Private Car or Minibus with Driver: $237
  • 8-hour Singapore Sightseeing City Drive: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Osaka $11
    Singapore $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Osaka

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Osaka:

  • Namba Pub Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $27
  • 3 Hours Pub Crawl Welcome Guided Tour in Shinsaibashi: $52
  • 3 Hour Osaka Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Namba : $57
  • Nada Gogo Sake Brewery Tour in Kobe from Osaka: $259

Sample the Local Flavors in Singapore

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Singapore:

  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $18
  • Little India Pub Crawl : $23
  • Singapore Pub Crawl: $27
  • Party Singapore Bespoke Pub Crawl: $29
  • Singapore Pub Crawl - Party like a Local: $37
  • Brass Lion Gin Distillery Tour Ticket: $39
  • LeVeL33 Rooftop Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting: $74


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


Which is Bigger, Osaka or Singapore?

Singapore has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Osaka. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Singapore, 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.