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

Should you visit Osaka or Brisbane?

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

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

Osaka

Osaka is a cultural, high energy, and colorful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Osaka travel costs.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a active, relaxed, and diverse coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Brisbane travel costs.

Osaka and Brisbane: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Brisbane?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Brisbane. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Brisbane attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Osaka is more touristy than Brisbane 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. Brisbane is famous for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas.

How is Osaka different from Brisbane?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brisbane can be an interesting and educational experience. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

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

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Osaka has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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!

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Osaka has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Brisbane has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Brisbane has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Osaka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Osaka is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Brisbane. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Osaka is not a beach destination.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is great for its historic old town charm. However, Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

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.

Brisbane does not have a historic old town.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Brisbane has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Brisbane?

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Brisbane is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Families?

Osaka and Brisbane are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

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.

Brisbane is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Couples?

Osaka is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

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.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Osaka and Brisbane are both excellent destinations 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brisbane. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

Is Osaka or Brisbane Better for Students?

Both Osaka and Brisbane are excellent destinations for students.

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.

Students come from all over to stay in Brisbane. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

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

Osaka is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

Public transit in Osaka is top-notch. 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.

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Osaka or Brisbane a more walkable city?

Brisbane 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.

Brisbane is a very walkable destination. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

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 Osaka Worth Visiting? and Is Brisbane Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brisbane or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Brisbane?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Osaka and Brisbane. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Osaka than in Brisbane. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Osaka, and 2-3 days is enough time in Brisbane.

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

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

Osaka is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Brisbane, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this diverse destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal 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.

A weekend in Osaka or Brisbane?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brisbane. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Osaka or Brisbane?

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.

Brisbane is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Brisbane. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Brisbane?

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.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Brisbane, we can see that Brisbane is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka is in Asia and Brisbane is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Brisbane would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brisbane 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 Osaka Expensive? and Is Brisbane Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Brisbane?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Brisbane. When comparing the sizes of Osaka and Brisbane, 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 Osaka or Brisbane?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Osaka has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Osaka or Brisbane in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Brisbane. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Osaka is around the same temperature as Brisbane in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Brisbane fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Brisbane during summer. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

Brisbane receives a lot of rain in the summer. Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Osaka usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brisbanein January. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Osaka or Brisbane in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Brisbane. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year.

In the autumn, Osaka is cooler than Brisbane. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Brisbane averages at about 22°C (71°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. In the autumn, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein April. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 214 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. Osaka receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Osaka usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Brisbanein April. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Brisbane in the Winter?

Both Brisbane and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brisbane for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Osaka is generally much colder than Brisbanein July. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Brisbane fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. Osaka usually receives less sunshine than Brisbane during winter. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Brisbane receives 226 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Osaka usually receives less rain than Brisbanein July. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Osaka or Brisbane in the Spring?

Both Brisbane and Osaka during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Brisbane in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Osaka is cooler than Brisbane in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Brisbane fluctuates around 21°C (69°F)in October.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Brisbanein October. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brisbane receives 259 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in April than Brisbanein October. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Brisbane receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Brisbane and Osaka