Planning a trip to Japan? We compare the costs of accommodation, food, and transport in Tokyo vs Osaka to help you budget.

The two giants of Japan. Tokyo (the polished capital) vs Osaka (the gritty kitchen of Japan). Which one is kinder to your wallet?

1. Accommodation

• Tokyo: Expensive. A decent business hotel is 15,000 JPY+.
• Osaka: Affordable. You can find similar hotels for 8,000 - 10,000 JPY.
• Winner: Osaka (by a landslide).

2. Food

• Tokyo: You can spend $500 on sushi or $5 on soba. It has everything.
• Osaka: Famous for "Kuidaore" (eat until you drop). Street food like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki is cheap and filling (500 - 1,000 JPY).
• Winner: Osaka (for value).

3. Transport

• Tokyo: Huge sprawling city. You will take the train everywhere. Daily cost: 1,000 JPY+.
• Osaka: More compact. You can walk or bike a lot. Daily cost: 600 JPY.
• Winner: Osaka.

4. Attractions

• Tokyo: Disney, Shibuya Sky, TeamLab (Expensive tickets).
• Osaka: USJ (Expensive), but Dotonbori and Osaka Castle park are free/cheap.
• Winner: Tie.

Conclusion

Osaka is about 20% - 30% cheaper than Tokyo. If you are on a budget, base yourself in Osaka and take day trips to Kyoto and Nara.