Tokyo vs Osaka: A Comprehensive Comparison of Japan's Two Major Cities
Surrounded by the warmth of the Kansai dialect for 10 years, this time spent in Osaka has given me a unique perspective to compare the charms of Japan's two major cities.
When I immerse myself in the hustle and bustle of Dotonbori, the scent of kushikatsu and takoyaki tickles my nose, and the sound of laughter and excitement reaches my ears. On the other hand, when I walk the streets of Tokyo, I'm struck by the modern landscape created by skyscrapers and the footsteps of people hurrying about their business.
The heartwarming interactions I experienced in Osaka. The internationally diverse culture I encountered in Tokyo. While both are faces of Japan, their expressions differ greatly.
The difference in language usage goes beyond mere dialects. The Osaka phrase "meccha umai!" and the Tokyo expression "totemo oishii desu" - there's such a different ring to expressing the same "delicious" sentiment.
The differences in food culture are also fascinating. In Osaka, you can share a drink with strangers in casual standing bars, while in Tokyo, you can enjoy cuisines from around the world in a single city. Both are attractive, yet their flavors are completely different.
In this article, I'll combine my experiences from 10 years of living in Osaka with objective data to compare Tokyo and Osaka from multiple angles. I'll thoroughly explain the characteristics of both cities, covering not only culture, food, language, and atmosphere but also tourist spots and living costs.
Which do you find more appealing - the sophisticated international city of Tokyo or the warm-hearted merchant city of Osaka? Or perhaps you'll be captivated by the charms of both.
Now, let's embark on a journey to explore the allure of these two great Japanese cities. By the time you finish reading this article, I'm sure a new image of Tokyo and Osaka will have formed in your mind!
Table of Contents
・Basic Information about Tokyo and Osaka
・Who Would Enjoy Tokyo or Osaka?
・Differences in Language and Dialect
・Differences in Food Culture
・City Atmosphere and Characteristics
・Differences in Tourist Spots
・Frequently Asked Questions about Tokyo and Osaka
Basic Information about Tokyo and Osaka
Tokyo and Osaka, Japan's two major cities. These two cities have different characteristics both geographically and culturally. Let's start by looking at the basic information of both cities.
Geographical Location
Tokyo is located in the center of the Kanto region on the eastern side of Japan. On the other hand, Osaka is the central city of the Kansai region on the western side. These two cities are about 400km apart in a straight line, but can be traveled between in about 2 hours and 30 minutes by bullet train.
Both cities are port towns facing the sea and have prospered as centers of trade since ancient times. You can enjoy the unique charm of the waterfront scenery in both Tokyo Bay and Osaka Bay.
Population and Size
In terms of population size, Tokyo Metropolis has about 14 million people, while Osaka Prefecture has about 8.8 million, making Tokyo larger.
Looking at these numbers alone, Tokyo seems larger, but when you actually live there, Osaka often feels more compact and easier to move around in. For example, in Osaka, the main tourist attractions are more concentrated, allowing you to visit them more efficiently.
On the other hand, Tokyo has diverse neighborhoods scattered throughout, offering endless exploration opportunities. It's uniquely charming about Tokyo that you can visit completely different atmospheres like Akihabara, Shibuya, and Ginza in a single day.
The population density is higher in Tokyo, and its famous crowded trains during morning rush hour are well-known. While Osaka is by no means empty, I've never experienced the level of congestion found in Tokyo.
As you can see, the differences in scale and population greatly influence the characteristics and appeal of each city. In the next section, let's take a closer look at who might prefer which city, based on these differences.
Who Would Enjoy Tokyo or Osaka?
Tokyo and Osaka are both attractive cities, but depending on the preferences and purposes of travelers, one city may be more enjoyable than the other. Based on my experience, I'll introduce you to who might prefer each city.
People Who Would Enjoy Tokyo
Tokyo is perfect for those who want to experience an international and modern Japan. It's constantly in the spotlight as a city where you can encounter cutting-edge fashion and technology.
Every time I visit Tokyo, I'm amazed by its diversity. In Shinjuku and Shibuya, you can experience the latest trends; in Asakusa, you can enjoy traditional Japanese culture; in Akihabara, you can immerse yourself in otaku culture; and in Ginza, you can enjoy high-end brand shops. You can experience various aspects of Japan in one city.
Tokyo is also a treasure trove of food. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual izakayas open late into the night, you can enjoy cuisines from all over the world. Especially Japanese dishes like sushi and tempura taste even better when eaten in Tokyo.
Tokyo is also recommended for those who want to enjoy nightlife. The clubs in Roppongi and Shibuya, the bars in Shinjuku, the night view in Odaiba - Tokyo at night has a different charm from the daytime.
Moreover, Tokyo is characterized by its abundance of cultural facilities such as art museums and museums. You can enjoy world-class exhibitions at places like the National Museum in Ueno and the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi.
People Who Would Enjoy Osaka
On the other hand, Osaka is recommended for those who want to experience a down-to-earth and friendly atmosphere. Having lived in Osaka for 10 years, what I felt was the warmth and humor of the people. If you ask for directions, they might even take you to your destination.
Osaka is also known for its comedy culture. The Kansai dialect is also one of its charms, and just hearing words like "meccha" and "nande yanen" makes you feel like you've really arrived in Osaka.
When it comes to food, Osaka often feels like heaven for those who want to enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices.
Osaka's specialty dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu are all popular and delicious. Especially in areas like Dotonbori and Shinsekai, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Osaka while sampling various foods.
Osaka is also recommended for those who want to experience the local atmosphere in shopping streets and markets. Places like Kuromon Market and Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street are valuable spots where you can get a glimpse of the daily lives of local people.
For history buffs, Osaka is also an attractive city. There are many historical buildings left, such as Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple. At the same time, modern buildings like Abeno Harukas coexist, allowing you to enjoy the harmony of old and new.
People Who Would Enjoy Visiting Both Cities
Actually, what I recommend most is visiting both cities. Tokyo and Osaka symbolize the differences between eastern and western Japanese culture, and by experiencing both, you can gain a deeper understanding of Japan's diversity.
I recommend visiting both cities if you have more than a week to stay. The distance is relatively easy to travel, about 2 hours and 30 minutes by bullet train.
Especially for those combining tourism and business trips, visiting both cities can be beneficial. Experience the international business environment in Tokyo and touch the merchant spirit in Osaka. Such experiences are very meaningful for understanding Japanese business culture.
Also, for those who want to taste a wide range of Japanese food culture, I recommend visiting both cities. You can experience a wide range of Japanese food culture, from high-end sushi in Tokyo to popular kushikatsu in Osaka.
Travel Planning Advice
If you're visiting both cities, from my experience, I recommend staying 2-3 days in each city. This amount of time should allow you to visit the main tourist spots and fully experience the atmosphere of each city.
Regarding seasons, spring and autumn are especially recommended. You can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in Ueno Park in Tokyo or Osaka Castle Park, and autumn leaves on a day trip to Kyoto. However, both cities can be enjoyed year-round, so you don't need to be too particular about the season.
Differences in Language and Dialect
When discussing the differences between Tokyo and Osaka, the differences in language and dialect are unavoidable. When I first moved to Osaka, what confused me most was this difference in language.
Tokyo Language
The language in Tokyo is close to what is generally called standard Japanese. The Japanese you hear in movies and anime is almost exactly what's used on the streets of Tokyo.
Furthermore, Tokyo is the source of youth culture, so new words and slang are constantly being created.
From my perspective living in Osaka, Tokyo language feels a bit distant. It's polite, but sometimes it can feel cold.
Osaka Language
On the other hand, Osaka's language is called Kansai dialect and has completely different characteristics from Tokyo's language. For me, having lived in Osaka for 10 years, this Kansai dialect is now like a second mother tongue.
The most distinctive feature is its unique intonation. Especially in old shops, "thank you" becomes "ookini," which is completely different from standard Japanese.
The sentence endings are also very different from Tokyo. Endings like "~yade" and "~yanen" are frequently used.
Also, many words are used that are completely different from standard Japanese. Words like "bochibochi" (so-so), "shindoi" (tired), "kettaina" (strange) - when I first came to Osaka, I was confused by all of these.
The charm of Osaka's language lies in its friendliness. For example, even strangers often talk to you casually, and the Kansai dialect used in these interactions makes conversations warmer.
Moreover, Osaka's language is rich in humorous expressions. Retorts like "nande yanen" and light jokes like "aho yana~" make conversations themselves enjoyable.
Also, Osaka is known as a merchant city, and this influence is reflected in the language usage. Grateful expressions like "maido!" (thank you always) that give an impression of being good at business are used daily.
What fascinated me about Osaka's language was this combination of friendliness, humor, and business-like expressions. At first, I was confused, but now I can't help but enjoy speaking in the Osaka dialect.
Neither Tokyo's language nor Osaka's language is superior. Each has its own charm and reflects the culture and history of the area.
I hope that even if you don't understand Japanese, you'll listen to both languages and enjoy their differences when you visit.
Differences in Food Culture
While the richness of Japanese food culture is world-famous, there are significant differences in food culture between Tokyo and Osaka.
Based on my experience of enjoying the food in both Tokyo and Osaka, let me share the characteristics of the food culture in both cities.
Tokyo's Food Culture
The characteristic of Tokyo's food culture lies in its diversity. The charm of Tokyo is that you can enjoy all kinds of meals from Japanese cuisine to cuisines from around the world.
Another feature of Tokyo is the large number of high-end restaurants. It boasts the world's largest number of Michelin-starred restaurants, where you can enjoy the finest Japanese, French, and Italian cuisines.
I myself occasionally visit high-end restaurants in Tokyo on special days. The refined taste and atmosphere are truly a special experience.
On the other hand, B-grade gourmet food is also plentiful. There are many places where you can enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices, such as Ikebukuro, known as a fierce battleground for ramen, and Shinjuku, where izakayas open until late at night line the streets.
Tokyo is also a place where new food trends are likely to emerge. For example, recently, new drinks like "tapioca drinks" and "cheese tea" have become hugely popular, especially among young people.
Tokyo's food culture, always seeking something new, can truly be called the pioneer of Japanese food.
Osaka's Food Culture
On the other hand, Osaka's food culture is symbolized by the phrase "kuidaore" (eat until you drop), with a rich, down-to-earth food culture deeply rooted. For me, having lived in Osaka for 10 years, this "kuidaore" culture was something I experienced in my daily life.
One of the characteristics of Osaka's food culture is its flour-based dishes. Takoyaki and okonomiyaki are dishes that could be called synonymous with Osaka.
If you walk through Dotonbori, you'll see takoyaki shops everywhere, and the savory smell will make you stop in your tracks. I myself made it a habit to go out for okonomiyaki for lunch on weekends.
Kushikatsu and doteyaki are also charms of Osaka's popular cuisine. Especially the kushikatsu in Shinsekai is loved not only by tourists but also by locals.
When I guide my friends around Osaka, I always introduce them to the kushikatsu in Shinsekai. The crispiness of the batter and the taste of the sauce that you're not allowed to double-dip feels like the very essence of Osaka's flavor.
Another feature of Osaka's food culture is the abundance of food stalls and standing bars. Standing bars that you can casually drop into on your way home from work are places of relaxation for Osaka's working people.
I often stop by standing bars with colleagues after work, and I'm always impressed by their casual atmosphere, delicious food, and reasonable prices.
The relatively low prices are also a characteristic of Osaka's food culture. Compared to Tokyo, dishes of the same quality are often cheaper.
I think this is influenced by the merchant spirit of Osaka. Providing delicious and reasonable dishes to make customers happy and come back again. You can feel the spirit of Osaka merchants through the food.
I hope travelers will enjoy meals in both cities. Savor world cuisines in Tokyo and enjoy the popular flavors of Japan in Osaka. Such a food journey will surely become an unforgettable memory.
And I hope you'll feel the diversity and richness of Japan through the food culture of each city.
City Atmosphere and Characteristics
While both Tokyo and Osaka are major cities representing Japan, their city atmospheres are vastly different. Let me share the characteristics of both cities as I see them, having lived in Osaka for over 10 years and frequently visiting Tokyo.
Tokyo's Atmosphere
The first impression of Tokyo is its modern landscape. The sight of towering skyscrapers seems to symbolize Japan's economic power and technological prowess. Especially the night views of Shinjuku and Roppongi are breathtaking, with the cityscape illuminated by neon lights looking like a futuristic city.
One of Tokyo's features is its well-developed public transportation system. Subways, trains, and buses run in all directions, making it easy to access anywhere. Every time I go to Tokyo, I'm impressed by this convenience.
However, the flip side is the famous crowded trains during morning rush hour, with the level of congestion surprising even foreign tourists.
The abundance of young people at the forefront of fashion is also a characteristic of Tokyo. If you walk through Harajuku or Shibuya, you'll see young people enjoying unique fashion styles. Their free expression makes you feel Tokyo's creativity and energy.
Walking through Tokyo's streets, you'll notice people hurrying about their business. Everyone walks quickly towards their destination, and you rarely see people stopping to chat.
Tokyo is also an internationally diverse city. Not only tourists but also many foreigners visiting for business, and as you walk the streets, you'll hear various languages being spoken. This diversity is one of Tokyo's charms.
Osaka's Atmosphere
On the other hand, Osaka's streets are characterized by their shitamachi (old town) atmosphere. For me, having lived in this city for over 10 years, this atmosphere brings a comforting sense of peace.
Especially areas like Shinsekai around Tsutenkaku Tower and Temma-Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street strongly retain a retro atmosphere, giving you a sense of having slipped back in time.
Osaka's greatest charm is its warm-hearted citizenry. Strangers casually strike up conversations, and if you ask for directions, they'll kindly guide you. Sometimes they'll even walk with you to your destination. This warmth still surprises and moves me even after 10 years.
The culture that values laughter is also a big characteristic of Osaka. As you walk the streets, you'll see people exchanging jokes everywhere. Even shop signs and menus often use humorous language, making you smile involuntarily.
The abundance of lively shopping streets is also a feature of Osaka. Walking through vibrant shopping streets like Kuromon Market and Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, you can feel Osaka's merchant spirit firsthand. The energetic calls and witty exchanges with customers are the very essence of Osaka.
Also, a characteristic of Osaka is that tourist areas are close to residential areas. For example, right next to tourist spots like Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi are places where locals live their daily lives. This allows tourists to get a glimpse of real Osaka daily life, enabling a deeper cultural experience.
Differences in Tourist Spots
Both Tokyo and Osaka have many attractive tourist spots, but their characteristics differ greatly. Based on my experience of frequently visiting Tokyo while living in Osaka, let me introduce the representative tourist spots of both cities.
Main Tourist Spots in Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Skytree is famous as the world's tallest self-supporting tower. This 634-meter-tall tower has become Tokyo's new landmark.
When I first visited Tokyo Skytree, I was amazed by its overwhelming height. The view from the observation deck is breathtaking, and on clear days, you can see as far as Mount Fuji.
At night, the illuminated Tokyo Skytree creates a fantastical atmosphere, beautifully coloring Tokyo's night sky. There are also commercial facilities and an aquarium nearby, allowing you to enjoy a full day of activities.
Sensoji Temple
Sensoji Temple is the oldest temple in Tokyo and a popular tourist spot where you can feel Japan's traditional culture.
The large lantern at Kaminarimon Gate is famous as a symbol of Asakusa, and many tourists take commemorative photos here. When I guide friends or family around Tokyo, I always start with a photo at this Kaminarimon Gate.
Nakamise Street is a shopping street about 250 meters long leading to Sensoji Temple, with a history dating back to the Edo period. Here, you can enjoy traditional Japanese souvenirs and food. My favorite is ningyo-yaki, a small baked sweet. It's best eaten while it's still hot.
Many festivals are held in Asakusa throughout the year. The Sanja Matsuri in May is especially famous, and the sight of colorful portable shrines parading through the town is spectacular.
Shibuya
Shibuya is known as the center of youth culture in Tokyo. Its symbolic spot is the world-famous Scramble Crossing.
When I first saw this crossing, I was overwhelmed by its scale and the number of people. When the signal turns green, people flow out from all directions, creating a sea of people. This scene seems to symbolize Tokyo's vitality and energy.
Shibuya is not just a commercial district. As a place that disseminates the latest fashion trends, it's where new cultures are constantly being born. Various shops line the streets, from large shopping malls to unique boutiques.
Shibuya's nightlife is also attractive. There are many spots where you can enjoy yourself until late at night, such as clubs and bars popular with young people, and karaoke shops. When I spend the night in Shibuya with friends, the energy never seems to wane even late into the night.
Harajuku / Takeshita Street
Harajuku, especially Takeshita Street, is the center of Japanese pop culture and street fashion.
Walking down this street, you'll see colorful and unique accessory shops lined up, almost too many to take in. What I particularly like is being able to see the eccentric fashion unique to Harajuku.
Takeshita Street is also famous for its crepes. Various types of crepe shops line the street, always with long queues.
Recently, many popular bubble tea shops have also opened, attracting young people.
And right next to Harajuku is Meiji Shrine. Step away from the bustle of the city, and you're enveloped in a sacred space surrounded by a quiet forest. This contrast between old and new is also one of Harajuku's charms.
Tokyo Disney Resort
Tokyo Disney Resort is a world-famous theme park located in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture, near Tokyo. It consists of two parks, Disneyland and DisneySea, and is bustling with many tourists throughout the year.
I myself am such a Disney fan that I visit several times a year. Its charm lies not just in enjoying the attractions, but in being able to immerse yourself in a world crafted down to the finest details. You feel as if you've stepped into a different world.
Tokyo Disneyland allows you to enjoy the classic Disney world. On the other hand, Tokyo DisneySea has a more adult atmosphere and consists of seven ports themed after ports around the world.
There are also plenty of hotels and shopping malls, making it popular as a resort destination. Especially Ikspiari, a shopping mall, is a wonderful spot where you can enjoy shopping while experiencing the Disney atmosphere.
Don't miss the night parades and shows. The parades adorned with fantastic lights and music captivate both adults and children.
The Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace is the residence of the Japanese Imperial Family and an important historical site located in the center of Tokyo.
Every time I visit the Imperial Palace, I'm struck by its solemnity and tranquility. Despite being in the heart of bustling Tokyo, stepping in feels like entering a different world of quiet.
The iconic landscape of the Imperial Palace, the Nijubashi Bridge, has become a photo spot for many tourists. The view of pine trees and castle walls beyond the bridge evokes the traditional beauty of Japan.
The area around the Imperial Palace is also popular as a green running course. On holidays, you can see many runners enjoying this beautiful scenery as they run.
The general public is allowed to enter the Imperial Palace grounds on January 2nd and the Emperor's birthday every year. On these days, you can enter the palace grounds that are usually off-limits and see the Emperor and members of the Imperial Family. I participated once, and it was a valuable experience to feel Japan's tradition and culture firsthand along with many others.
Main Tourist Spots in Osaka
Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi at the end of the 16th century, is a symbolic presence in Osaka. Even for me, having lived in Osaka for over 10 years, Osaka Castle is a special place.
From the top of the castle tower, you can overlook the city of Osaka. The contrast between modern skyscrapers and the historical castle seems to symbolize the charm of Osaka. The view at dusk is especially spectacular, with the cityscape of Osaka bathed in the setting sun breathtakingly beautiful.
Osaka Castle is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. The sight of about 3,000 cherry trees in full bloom is spectacular, attracting many people for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) every year. I also enjoy hanami with friends and family in Osaka Castle Park every year during this season. It's become an annual tradition to spread out a picnic under the cherry blossoms and take photos with Osaka Castle in the background.
Inside Osaka Castle Tower, there's a history museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Osaka.
Osaka Castle is not just a tourist spot, but also a place of relaxation for the people of Osaka. On weekends, it's bustling with families, couples, and people enjoying jogging. I myself often take walks in Osaka Castle Park to relieve stress and refresh my mind.
Universal Studios Japan
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is a popular theme park located in Konohana Ward, Osaka City. It's a place where you can experience the worlds of movies and anime, attracting many tourists from both Japan and abroad.
I have an annual pass and visit USJ several times a month, but I discover something new every time. Especially popular is the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" area.
You can feel as if you've entered the magical world with Hogwarts Castle in the background. My favorite is strolling through Hogsmeade village while drinking butterbeer.
Recently, the "Super Nintendo World" featuring Nintendo characters has also become very popular. The Mario Kart attraction offers an innovative experience using virtual reality technology, and I get excited every time.
One of USJ's charms is its abundance of seasonal limited-time events. During Halloween and Christmas seasons, the entire park is decorated specially, and you can enjoy limited-time shows and attractions.
I especially like the Halloween event, and the Horror Night where staff dressed as zombies chase you is something my friends and I look forward to every year.
Also, at USJ, you can purchase various character goods. My room is filled with Minion and Harry Potter goods I bought here. The time spent choosing souvenirs is also an important part of enjoying the park.
USJ is a place that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. There's a wide variety of attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides for small children. Even spending a whole day here isn't enough, rather, you feel like you need more time.
Dotonbori / Glico Sign
Dotonbori is famous as Osaka's entertainment district. The symbolic presence in this area is the giant Glico sign.
When I first visited Dotonbori, I was overwhelmed by its vitality and bustle. The restaurants and souvenir shops lining both sides of the street, and the numerous flashy signs.
Especially the Glico sign with its running man pose is one of the representative scenes of Osaka. When I guide friends or family around Osaka, we always take commemorative photos in front of this sign.
Dotonbori is also the center of Osaka gourmet food. You can casually enjoy Osaka's specialty dishes like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu.
At night, Dotonbori is enveloped in a glamorous atmosphere with neon lights. If you walk along the river, you can enjoy a fantastical scenery with illuminated signs and buildings reflected on the water surface.
Especially the view from Ebisubashi Bridge is a scenic spot. The night view of Dotonbori seen from the bridge feels like it encapsulates the charm of Osaka's nightlife.
Tsutenkaku
Tsutenkaku is an observation tower located in Shinsekai, Naniwa Ward, Osaka City, known as a symbolic presence of Osaka. This 103-meter-tall tower, rebuilt in 1956, has become a symbol of Osaka's recovery and prosperity.
I first visited Tsutenkaku shortly after moving to Osaka. I still vividly remember feeling strongly attracted to Osaka's charm by its unique appearance and the contrast with the surrounding downtown landscape.
From the observation deck of Tsutenkaku, you can overlook the city of Osaka. On clear days, you can see as far as Osaka Castle and Abeno Harukas, allowing you to feel the transition of Osaka's cityscape.
The charm of Tsutenkaku is not just the observation deck. Inside the tower, there are various restaurants and souvenir shops where you can enjoy the tastes and culture of Osaka.
Also, don't miss the neon signs of Tsutenkaku. At night, Tsutenkaku adorned with colorful neon lights brightly illuminates the streets of Shinsekai.
Especially the giant "Billiken" statue at the bottom of Tsutenkaku is beloved as a symbol of Shinsekai. There's a saying that you'll become happy if you rub the soles of its feet, and many people line up to take their turn.
The Shinsekai area where Tsutenkaku is located is also a place packed with Osaka's charms. You can feel the popular culture of Osaka firsthand in the shopping streets with a Showa retro atmosphere and "Jan Jan Yokocho" famous for kushikatsu. I often stroll around this area on holidays, enjoying interactions with local people.
Abeno Harukas
Abeno Harukas is a skyscraper located in Abeno Ward, Osaka City, and is the second tallest building in Japan. This building, standing over 300 meters tall, is a complex facility with offices, a hotel, an art museum, and an observation deck.
When I first visited Abeno Harukas, I was amazed by its overwhelming height and modern design. I remember feeling proud, realizing that a new landmark had been added to Osaka's cityscape.
From the "Harukas 300" observation deck of Abeno Harukas, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Osaka city. On clear days, you can see as far as Osaka Bay, the Rokko mountain range, and even Kyoto and Wakayama. My recommendation is to visit at dusk. The scenery of the sky changing colors and the city lights gradually coming on is breathtakingly beautiful.
The charm of Abeno Harukas isn't just the observation deck. From the 16th to 20th floors, there's an art museum where you can appreciate excellent artworks from Japan and abroad.
The shopping mall is also well-stocked, offering a wide range of products from the latest fashion items to local Osaka specialties. I often enjoy shopping here on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tokyo and Osaka
I'll answer some common questions about Tokyo and Osaka, Japan's two major cities. Based on my experience of living in Osaka for over 10 years and frequently visiting Tokyo, I'll explain in detail the characteristics and differences between the two cities.
Which is easier to sightsee, Tokyo or Osaka?
I'm often asked this question by tourists. To conclude, both cities are easy to sightsee, but their characteristics differ.
Tokyo's strength is its well-developed public transportation system. Subway and train lines are intricately laid out, making it relatively easy to access anywhere. Every time I visit Tokyo, I'm impressed by this convenience.
Also, Tokyo is characterized by its progress in English support. Many signs at stations and menus at restaurants have English translations, creating an environment friendly to foreign tourists.
On the other hand, Osaka's charm is that major tourist spots are relatively concentrated. Popular spots like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan can be visited efficiently.
When I guide friends around, we can efficiently visit the main spots in one day. Also, Osaka has a down-to-earth atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy interactions with locals. For example, it's common to have casual conversations with shopkeepers at takoyaki stands or get tourist spot recommendations from locals in shopping streets.
From my experience, I'd recommend Tokyo for those who want to enjoy diversity and modernity, and Osaka for those who want to experience Japanese popular culture and interact with locals. Both are wonderful tourist destinations, but it's good to choose based on your travel purpose.
Which has higher prices, Tokyo or Osaka?
Regarding prices, generally speaking, Tokyo is more expensive.
The biggest difference is in rent, accommodation costs, and transportation costs. Rent in Tokyo is often 20-30% higher than in Osaka, and in central areas, the difference can be even greater. Transportation costs are also inevitably higher in Tokyo because the routes are more complex and the distances are longer.
On the other hand, food costs are often lower in Osaka. Osaka is also called the "city of gastronomy," and there are many restaurants where you can enjoy delicious meals at reasonable prices.
However, brand-name goods and the latest electronics are sometimes cheaper in Tokyo. This is probably because competition is fiercer in Tokyo.
Overall, it's said that the cost of living in Tokyo is about 10-20% higher than in Osaka. However, this is just an average, and it can vary greatly depending on individual lifestyle.
From my experience, I can say that you can enjoy life in either city with some ingenuity. While there's a higher possibility of earning a high income in Tokyo, you tend to have a more relaxed lifestyle in Osaka.
That being said, for travelers, you might not feel much difference for short stays.
Which is more popular among foreign tourists, Tokyo or Osaka?
Looking at the numbers, Tokyo has more foreign tourists. However, Osaka's popularity has been rapidly increasing in recent years.
Tokyo, being the capital of Japan and having a strong international image, is chosen by many foreign tourists as their first destination. Tokyo, where historical tourist spots coexist with modern urban landscapes, is popular as a place where you can experience Japan's diversity at once.
On the other hand, Osaka has seen a rapid increase in foreign tourists in recent years, along with an increase in users of Kansai International Airport. It's especially popular among tourists from Asia.
Osaka's charm lies in its down-to-earth atmosphere and gourmet food. Also, good access to historical tourist spots like Kyoto and Nara is one of the reasons for Osaka's popularity.
When I ask my foreign friends for their opinions, they often have an image of Tokyo as "modern and stimulating" and Osaka as "friendly and fun". Many tourists visit both cities, experiencing high-tech Japan in Tokyo and enjoying popular Japanese culture in Osaka.
Both cities attract foreign tourists with their unique charms. Tokyo's sophisticated urban atmosphere and Osaka's warm, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Which one you prefer largely depends on personal preference, but I think you can understand Japan more deeply by experiencing both.
Which is easier to find a job, Tokyo or Osaka?
Regarding job hunting, generally speaking, there are more job opportunities in Tokyo. This is because Tokyo is the center of Japanese politics and economy, and many large companies and foreign companies have their headquarters concentrated there.
Various industries such as IT, finance, advertising, and media are concentrated in Tokyo. Especially, the large number of foreign companies is a feature of Tokyo, making it an advantageous environment for those aiming for an international career.
On the other hand, Osaka has a strong local orientation, and many people return to their hometown for employment. I often see a pattern where people who grew up in Osaka go to university in Tokyo and then return to their hometown of Osaka for employment.
Osaka has many small and medium-sized enterprises, and there's a higher possibility of getting responsible jobs at a young age. Among my friends, there are several who have important positions in small and medium-sized enterprises in Osaka from an early stage.
However, advantages and disadvantages differ depending on the industry. For example, there might be more job opportunities in Osaka for manufacturing or food industries. On the other hand, there would be more opportunities in Tokyo for IT or fashion industries.
Also, with the recent spread of remote work, the importance of physical work location is decreasing. There's an increasing number of people working for Tokyo companies while living in Osaka. I myself live in Osaka while working as a freelance writer, but all my clients are companies in Tokyo.
I think Tokyo has more opportunities because the competition is fierce, while Osaka has an environment where it's easier to demonstrate your abilities because there's less competition.
Which is more livable, Tokyo or Osaka?
The charm of Tokyo is its high convenience. Public transportation is well-developed, making it convenient to go anywhere. Also, there are abundant choices for various cultures, entertainment, and shopping, allowing for constant new experiences.
On the other hand, the high cost of living is a challenge. Especially rent is considerably higher than in Osaka, making it difficult for many people to have leeway in their lives.
Also, while Tokyo has many job opportunities, competition is also fierce. While there are many opportunities for career advancement, many people feel a high level of stress.
Osaka is characterized by its warmth and good cost performance. Because costs for food and housing are cheaper than in Tokyo, it's possible to live a more comfortable life. The friendliness of people is also one of Osaka's charms. There's an atmosphere where you can easily converse with strangers, making it an environment where it's hard to feel lonely.
On the other hand, there tend to be fewer job choices compared to Tokyo. However, recently, many venture companies are being born in Osaka, and new business opportunities are increasing.
Osaka allows for a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Tokyo. Many people have shorter commute times, giving them more time to enjoy their private lives after work and on holidays.
I feel that Tokyo is suitable for those who prioritize their career and seek a stimulating life, while Osaka is suitable for those who value work-life balance and want to cherish connections with people.
But honestly, I love Osaka so much that if you ever decide to live in Japan, I'd say come to Osaka!
We've taken a detailed look at the charms and characteristics of Tokyo and Osaka, Japan's two major cities. Based on my experience of living in Osaka for over 10 years and frequently visiting Tokyo, I've shared the differences between the two cities.
Tokyo has an international and sophisticated atmosphere where you can experience cutting-edge technology and culture. On the other hand, Osaka is characterized by its warm-hearted, down-to-earth atmosphere, a charming city where traditional Japanese culture and modern elements are fused.
Both cities embody the greatness of Japan in different ways. If possible, I recommend visiting both cities and feeling the differences firsthand. By understanding the characteristics of each city, you can have a more fulfilling stay in Japan!
