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

Should you visit Shanghai or Osaka?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Shanghai and Osaka. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a modern, cosmopolitan, and professional port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Osaka

Osaka is a high energy, colorful, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Shanghai and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Osaka?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Osaka than Shanghai. While Shanghai is larger than Osaka, Osaka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Osaka is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights, while Shanghai is known for its big city activities and impressive beauty. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Osaka is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also home to Osaka Castle.

How is Shanghai different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the world-class sights and museums in both Shanghai and Osaka.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Shanghai are among the most recognizable in the world. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Shanghai and Osaka both to be world-class destinations.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

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!

Is Shanghai or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

Is Shanghai or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Osaka?

Both Shanghai and Osaka are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Shanghai make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

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.

Is Shanghai or Osaka Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Osaka are great family-friendly destinations.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

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.

Is Shanghai or Osaka Better for Couples?

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

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city getaway.

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 Shanghai or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Shanghai and Osaka are great destinations for backpackers.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

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.

Is Shanghai or Osaka Better for Students?

Shanghai and Osaka are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Many students visit Shanghai. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

Osaka is a very popular port 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.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you to most places easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Is Shanghai or Osaka a more walkable city?

Shanghai 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.

Shanghai is a very walkable destination. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

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 Shanghai Worth Visiting? and Is Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Shanghai or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Shanghai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

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

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

Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This port 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.

The city of Osaka offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Osaka?

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

Osaka is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Osaka, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Osaka?

Shanghai is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Shanghai has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Osaka is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Osaka?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Shanghai. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Osaka is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Osaka?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Osaka. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Osaka, 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 Shanghai or Osaka?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Shanghai or Osaka in the Summer?

Both Osaka and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Osaka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Osaka averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Shanghai. In the summer, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets less rain in July than Osaka. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Osaka in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Osaka. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Osaka. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Osaka during autumn. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Osaka. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Osaka in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Osaka. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. Shanghai is cooler than Osaka in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Osaka fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Osaka. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Osaka. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Osaka in the Spring?

Both Osaka and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Osaka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Osaka averages at about 15°C (59°F).

Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Osaka during spring. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Osaka. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Shanghai