A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Osaka for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a colorful, vibrant, and cultural 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 Osaka travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka. Although Koh Tarutao and Osaka are popular destinations, Osaka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Osaka is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Osaka is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Osaka, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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!

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

The nightlife in Osaka is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Tarutao are among the best in the world. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao 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.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

Osaka is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Families?

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Osaka both great destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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 Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Osaka. 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.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Osaka can get around quickly with the extensive 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 Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Osaka a more walkable city?

Osaka is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Osaka due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

Families should spend more time in Osaka than Koh Tarutao. 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 Koh Tarutao. 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 Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island 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.

Osaka is a cultural city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Osaka is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The vibrant city of Osaka offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

You'll find around the remote destination of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Osaka?

Osaka has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tarutao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Osaka in the Summer?

Both Osaka and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Osaka in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Osaka fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Osaka. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Osaka in the Autumn?

Both Osaka and Koh Tarutao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Osaka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Osaka averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Osaka. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Osaka in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Osaka. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Osaka. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Osaka fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Osaka. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Osaka in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Osaka. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Osaka in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Osaka fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite rainy in Osaka. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in April than Osaka. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Osaka receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Osaka and Koh Tarutao