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

Should you visit Osaka or Washington?

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

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

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Washington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Washington than Osaka. While Osaka is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Washington is better known for its theatre productions, music, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Osaka is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Osaka is well known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Osaka different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Washington 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 Washington that are not to be missed. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Osaka is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Osaka is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Osaka and Washington both to be terrific 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 Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Osaka is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is great for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Washington?

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

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Osaka does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Washington draws large crowds. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Osaka does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Families?

Osaka and Washington are both excellent 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.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Couples?

Osaka and Washington are both excellent 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 Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Osaka or Washington Better for Students?

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

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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 Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find terrific public transit in both Osaka and Washington.

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 Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Is Osaka or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington 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 Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Washington?

Both Osaka and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Osaka. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

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

When visiting Osaka, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Washington, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this diverse 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 Washington?

When visiting Osaka, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Washington?

Osaka, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a fun place to experience. In Washington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Osaka or Washington?

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Washington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this monument-filled big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Washington?

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

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 Washington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Washington. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Osaka is around the same temperature as Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Osaka in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Washington during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 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 Washington. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Washington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Washington. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In October, Osaka is generally a little warmer than Washington. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 19°C (66°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Washington. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets more rain in October than Washington. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. Osaka is much warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Osaka usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Washington during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Washington. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Washington in the Spring?

Both Washington and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Washington in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Osaka is a little warmer than Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Osaka in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Washington. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Washington. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Osaka