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

Should you visit Yogyakarta or Osaka?

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

Should I visit Yogyakarta or Osaka? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a historical, colorful, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a colorful, vibrant, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Osaka travel costs.

Yogyakarta and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka than Yogyakarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Yogyakarta is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. 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 Yogyakarta different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Yogyakarta and Osaka.

The museums and tourist attractions in Yogyakarta are world-renowned. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

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.

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

Osaka is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Yogyakarta 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!

Dining out in Yogyakarta is an experience not to be missed. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Osaka is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the very good old towns in both Yogyakarta and Osaka.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Yogyakarta. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

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

Known for shopping, Yogyakarta draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

Osaka is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Osaka is very family-friendly. 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 Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for Couples?

Osaka is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Yogyakarta is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yogyakarta and Osaka are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Yogyakarta. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Osaka is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta 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.

Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

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

Osaka is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Osaka has a great public transit system. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Is Yogyakarta or Osaka a more walkable city?

Yogyakarta and Osaka are good when it comes to walkability.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Yogyakarta?

How long in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Yogyakarta or Osaka. In our opinion, Osaka has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Osaka than Yogyakarta. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

In Yogyakarta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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.

A weekend in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yogyakarta. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

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.

Five days in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

Yogyakarta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Yogyakarta. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Yogyakarta or Osaka?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Yogyakarta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yogyakarta and Osaka, we can see that Osaka is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta 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 Osaka would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Osaka than you might in Yogyakarta.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Yogyakarta Expensive? and Is Osaka Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yogyakarta or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Yogyakarta. When comparing the sizes of Yogyakarta 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.