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Osaka vs Tokyo

Can't choose between Osaka and Tokyo? Look at cost, timing, and the kind of trip you want.

April, May, October
Best time to visit
March, April, October
$150
Typical cost / day
¥23,700
USD
Currency
JPY
3 days
Ideal length
5 days
18 spots
Live highlights
14 spots

Top things to do in Osaka

  • Osaka
  • Ōebashi Station
  • Yodoyabashi Station
  • Osaka Prefectural Nakanoshima Library
  • Nakanoshima Park

Top things to do in Tokyo

  • Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
  • Meiji Shrine & Harajuku
  • teamLab Planets digital art museum
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens
  • Tsukiji Outer Market food crawl

So, Osaka or Tokyo?

O

Osaka is the pick if you want better value and highlights like Osaka and Ōebashi Station. Best visited April or May.

T

Tokyo is the better call for Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa and Meiji Shrine & Harajuku and a lighter daily spend. Best visited March or April.

Osaka vs Tokyo: questions

Is Osaka or Tokyo cheaper?+

Osaka is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $150/day for Osaka and ¥23,700/day for Tokyo for a mid-range trip, before flights.

Osaka or Tokyo, which has better weather?+

Osaka is best in April, May, October, while Tokyo shines in March, April, October. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.

Should I visit Osaka or Tokyo first?+

Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.

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