Kyoto vs Osaka: Which is Best For Your First Japan Visit?

Kyoto and Osaka are two of Japan's top cities. Kyoto represents Japan's rich traditions, while Osaka shows its modern side.

When travelling to Japan, it's recommended to see both. They are only 15-30 minutes apart by train. But if your time is limited, you may be wondering which one to choose.

In this article, we will offer you 6 major differences and some helpful tips, helping you decide.

Kyoto vs Osaka: A Quick Comparison

If you enjoy traditional Japanese culture, choose Kyoto. If you love food and local life, choose Osaka.

1. History and Culture: Historical Kyoto vs Modern Osaka

Kyoto: A City Full of Tradition

As Japan's ancient capital, Kyoto gives you a true taste of traditional Japan.

Kyoto is home to many well-preserved historic buildings. Because it wasn't destroyed during World War II, landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Nijo Castle are still standing today.

You can also enjoy authentic experiences to learn more about Japanese culture. For example, try a tea ceremony, watch a geisha performance, or spend a night in a ryokan.

Osaka: A Modern Food Paradise

Known as "Japan's Kitchen," Osaka is a food lover's paradise.

You'll find more authentic Japanese restaurants and dishes here. As Osaka is the birthplace of many Japanese foods, you can try most of the dishes you'd want to, such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and ramen.

Osaka also has a lively nightlife. You can visit bars, live music venues, and late-night restaurants, making your evenings fun and full of local flavor.

2. Things to Do: Culture Activities vs Foodie Tour

Kyoto: Delve into Japanese Culture

If you want to experience the most authentic Japan in one place, it has to be Kyoto. This medieval capital is packed with rich cultural experiences.

A must-do in Kyoto is exploring its shrines and temples. We strongly recommend focusing on 2-3 of the most iconic ones, so you don't get fatigued. Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Shrine are absolute must-sees.

You can also try hands-on activities like wearing a kimono while making matcha, creating pottery, or copying sutras at a temple.

Osaka: Enjoy a Foodie Tour

Undoubtedly, one must-do activity in Osaka is to join a foodie tour.

This lets you sample famous street foods in a short time. We'll take you to a food-focused area like Dotonbori, where you can try takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and more. You can even join in the cooking for a fun and hands-on experience.

3. Food Scene: High-End Japanese Cuisine vs Local Street Food

Kyoto: High-Class Japanese Food

Kyoto is the perfect place to enjoy high-end dishes like Kaiseki and Shojin (Buddhist vegetarian), thanks to its traditional atmosphere.

It is the birthplace of both Kaiseki and Shojin Ryori. Eating these dishes in a traditional setting is more than just a meal—it's a full artistic experience.

However, these meals usually need to be booked in advance, which can be a bit challenging on your own. If you travel with us, we can secure a Kaiseki reservation or arrange a Shojin in a quiet temple away from the crowds.

Osaka: Local Street Food

When visiting Osaka, you shouldn't miss its delicious and affordable street food.

Dotonbori is the best place to enjoy street food in Osaka. You'll find plenty of restaurants and street stalls serving snacks like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, many of which stay open late into the night.

4. Accommodation: Japanese Ryokans vs Western-Style Hotels

Kyoto: Traditional Japanese Ryokans (Inns)

Kyoto has many Western-style hotels, but staying in a ryokan is a better choice.

It's a traditional Japanese style of accommodation, where you sleep on a futon on tatami floors. Kyoto is the perfect place to try it, as it has many ryokan options and a historic atmosphere.

If you're not used to sleeping on the floor, here's our simple solution: stay in a ryokan for just one night. This way, you will enjoy the unique experience while still getting a comfortable rest.

Osaka: Comfortable Hotels

Most hotels in Osaka are Western-style, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury.

We recommend staying in Umeda. It is easy to get to major attractions and the airport from here. Plus, the area has many shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Some popular hotels here are the InterContinental Hotel Osaka, Hotel Hankyu International, and Hotel Vischio Osaka.

5. Travel Cost: Kyoto is More Expensive

Travel costs in Kyoto are higher than in Osaka, especially during peak seasons such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage.

Most of your budget will go to accommodations. During busy periods, hotel prices in Kyoto can be about 50% higher than usual. Because Kyoto is the most popular city for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, it attracts more travelers.

If you plan to visit Japan during this time, we strongly recommend booking your tour and hotel 3 - 6 months in advance. This way, you can get your preferred hotel at a good price.

6. Travel Convenience: Osaka is Easier to Get Around

Kyoto: Mainly Rely on Buses

Kyoto's main public transportation is the bus. It can reach most of the city's main attractions. To visit farther places, like Arashiyama, Nara, or Uji, it's better to take the train.

However, we recommend using a private car in Kyoto. The attractions are spread out, and buses can take a lot of time and energy. With a private car, you can spend more time on the sights instead of on the road.

Osaka: A Subway-Friendly City

The easiest way to get around Osaka is by subway. You can easily reach major attractions like Shinsaibashi, Universal Studios, and Osaka Castle.

Getting to the airport from Osaka is also easier than from Kyoto, as Kansai International Airport is located in Osaka.

FAQs about Visiting Kyoto or Osaka

Should You Visit Both Kyoto and Osaka?

If you are in Japan for more than a week, you should definitely visit both Kyoto and Osaka.

It usually takes 3 to 4 days to see the main highlights of both cities.

• Kyoto (2-3 days): Spend one day exploring the city attractions, the next day visiting Arashiyama, and the last day in Nara.
• Osaka (1-2 days): Spend one day enjoying the city's highlights and another day having fun at Universal Studios Japan.

If you really love one of these cities and want to spend more time there, focusing on just one city is a great idea. It allows you to experience it more deeply.

Where to Stay: Kyoto or Osaka?

It takes only about 15 minutes by Shinkansen (bullet train) to travel between Kyoto and Osaka. This makes it easy to visit one city while staying in the other.

• Staying in Kyoto: If you want to spend more time in Kyoto or stay in a traditional ryokan.
• Staying in Osaka: If you enjoy vibrant nightlife, want easy airport access, cheaper hotels, or plan day trips to Hiroshima or Himeji.

Staying in both cities is also a good idea if you plan to visit them. This saves travel time and lets you fully enjoy the unique character of each city.

Which City is Better for Families with Kids?

Osaka is best for most families with kids.

It has many kid-friendly activities. You can have fun at Universal Studios Japan, dress up as a ninja and learn ninja skills, try a variety of snacks, or visit the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

But that doesn't mean Kyoto isn't great for families. We can arrange fun and educational activities for your kids, like exploring shrines in kimonos, taking a cooking class, or feeding deer in Nara.

Is It Better to Visit Osaka or Kyoto First?

If your Japan trip begins in Tokyo, start with Kyoto before going to Osaka. Tokyo is closer to Kyoto, just a 2.5-hour ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train). Osaka has Kansai International Airport, making it a convenient final stop for your departure.

If you arrive in Japan through Osaka, start with Osaka and then visit Kyoto.

Should You Visit Hiroshima from Osaka or Kyoto?

It's best to visit Hiroshima from Osaka because it is closer. The Shinkansen takes about 1.5 hours from Osaka. From Kyoto, the trip takes around 2 hours.

Both Kyoto and Osaka are good bases for day trips. Starting from the right city can save you time.

• From Osaka: Visit Hiroshima, Himeji, Kobe, and the Kumano Kodo Trail.
• From Kyoto: Visit Nara and Uji.

Let's Customize Your Japan Trip Together

Whatever you want to do in Kyoto and Osaka, our expert Japan travel advisors can help you tailor the perfect trip. We'll take care of everything, so you can just relax and enjoy your vacation.

Here are our most-chosen Japan tours for your inspiration:

• 10-Day Charming Japan Cherry Blossom Tour
• 11-Day Traditional Japan Tour with Historical Hiroshima
• 13-Day Japan Family Vacation with Theme Parks