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

Should you visit Ubud 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 Ubud 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.

Ubud

Ubud is a breathtaking, popular, and famous town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Ubud offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Ubud travel costs.

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Osaka travel costs.

Ubud and Osaka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ubud or Osaka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Osaka. Although Ubud and Osaka are popular destinations, Osaka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Osaka is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ubud attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ubud is more touristy than Osaka and is popular for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle.

How is Ubud different from Osaka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Osaka on the map. 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.

Ubud offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Ubud and Osaka both to be world-class destinations.

Eat your way through Ubud, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

For foodies, Osaka is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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!

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Osaka just to party. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Ubud has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Resorts?

Ubud is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Osaka is not a resort destination.

Ubud offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

Osaka is not a resort destination.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for its Old Town?

Osaka is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ubud 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.

Ubud does not have a historic old town.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Hiking?

Ubud 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 Ubud. There are many stunning walks and hikes just outside of town. There are stunning views from Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Jalan Subak Sok Wayah Walk will take you through the rice paddies and Kajeng Rice Field Walk is close to town but tucked away from the crowds. One of the biggest draws of the area is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces Walk.

Osaka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ubud or Osaka?

Osaka is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Osaka is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ubud. Head to the Ubud shopping street for boutiques, markets, and local items. The town has grown into a shopper's paradise with many Balinese handicrafts around.

Is Ubud or Osaka More Beautiful?

Ubud is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ubud offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's a stunning setting, which makes it appealing to tourists, but to truly enjoy the beauty you'll want to get a bit outside of town.

Osaka is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Families?

Osaka is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Osaka is known to be 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.

Ubud offers lots of family activities. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the jungles and rice paddies. There are also many great restaurants that are family-friend. Ubud is a bit cooler than the beach towns of Bali, so kids will enjoy an escape from the hotter temperatures.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Couples?

Ubud is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Ubud has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Honeymooners flock to this small town for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. There are luxury hotels, spas, massages, and poolside escapes that will make for the perfect honeymoon. You'll also find world class restaurants and breathtaking hikes in the area.

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 Ubud or Osaka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ubud and Osaka are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ubud is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. If you need a break from the party scene on Bali, then you'll enjoy the reprieve of this small town. There are still plenty of backpackers and hostels, but the town itself offers a more relaxed setting.

Osaka is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

Is Ubud or Osaka Better for Students?

Osaka is a great destination for students. However, Ubud 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.

Ubud is not popular with students.

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

Osaka is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Ubud is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Osaka can get you around easily. 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 mostly limited in Ubud. Many people hire a vehicle or driver to explore the area. There are also tourist shuttles around with Perama Shuttle being one of the most established.

Is Ubud or Osaka a more walkable city?

Ubud 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.

Ubud is a very walkable destination. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

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 Ubud Worth Visiting? and Is Osaka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Osaka or Ubud?

How long in Ubud or Osaka?

It's fun to spend time in either Ubud or Osaka. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Ubud due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Ubud, and 2-4 days is enough time in Osaka.

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

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

In Ubud, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this popular destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This town 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 big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Ubud or Osaka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ubud. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Osaka is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Ubud or Osaka?

Ubud is a fun place to experience. In Ubud, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy big city of Osaka. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ubud or Osaka?

In Ubud, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this popular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

The vibrant city of Osaka offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Ubud or Osaka?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Ubud. When comparing the sizes of Ubud 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.