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

Should you visit Yokohama or Osaka?

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

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

Yokohama

Yokohama is a under-rated, laid-back, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Yokohama travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Osaka travel costs.

Yokohama and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Osaka?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Osaka than Yokohama. While Yokohama is larger than Osaka, Osaka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Osaka is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. Also, Osaka is famous for Osaka Castle. Yokohama is well known for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Yokohama different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Osaka that are not to be missed. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Osaka is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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!

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Yokohama or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Osaka is a must-see 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.

Many people head to Yokohama for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Yokohama or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is well known for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Osaka to see the historical old town. 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.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Osaka?

Osaka is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Osaka is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Yokohama or Osaka Better for Families?

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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 Yokohama or Osaka Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Osaka are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Osaka is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Is Yokohama or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is well known for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Yokohama or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is well known for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

Osaka is terrific for its public transit. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Osaka can take you anywhere. 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.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

Is Yokohama or Osaka a more walkable city?

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable destination. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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 Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Yokohama or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Osaka due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

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

Couples should spend more time in Osaka than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama or Osaka?

Each neighborhood in Yokohama has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Yokohama or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yokohama. 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 Yokohama or Osaka?

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

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 Yokohama or Osaka?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful big city of Yokohama. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Osaka?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Osaka. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama or Osaka in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Osaka. The summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In July, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Osaka. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 25°C (78°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

In the summer, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Osaka. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yokohama usually gets less rain in July than Osaka. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Osaka in the Autumn?

Both Osaka and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Osaka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Osaka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Osaka fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Osaka during autumn. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In October, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Osaka. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yokohama or Osaka in the Winter?

Both Osaka and Yokohama during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Osaka in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Osaka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yokohama in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Osaka averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Yokohama often gets more sunshine than Osaka. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Osaka receives 140 hours of full sun.

Yokohama usually gets more rain in January than Osaka. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Osaka in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Osaka. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Osaka for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Osaka. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 14°C (58°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Osaka during spring. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Osaka receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Osaka receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of rain as Osaka. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Yokohama