The distance from Tokyo to Osaka is 247 miles (397 kilometers).
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Yes, it is. The Shinkansen starts running around 6 a.m. and the last return train from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo is around 9 p.m. This gives you a whole day in Osaka — but does mean missing out on Osaka's famous nightlife.
Osaka vs Tokyo: The Bottom LineIf you want to be at the heart of everything, Tokyo can be your best bet. But, if you want to enjoy a lower cost of living and friendlier neighbors, Osaka can be the better choice. Both cities have something unique to offer, and living in either city can be a fantastic experience.
As you travel around Japan and stay in other cities, you'll find that the prices are less than Tokyo. Even Osaka – another big city – is about 25 per cent cheaper on average. The only main city that isn't necessarily much cheaper than Tokyo is Kyoto, but that's because it is such a popular tourist destination.
It's known for having some of the best food in Japan and it offers plenty to do for first-time visitors. If it's your first trip and you don't have a lot of time, then I'd say that 3 days in Osaka is ideal. It'll give you enough time to see the city's top attractions without feeling rushed.
Kyoto is quite far, can you do a day trip from Tokyo? Absolutely! From Tokyo to Kyoto, the best mode of transportation is through the shinkansen or bullet train. The Nozomi line takes approximately 3 hours one way and costs about 13,000 yen one way per person.
The ideal duration to explore Tokyo is at least 5 days to discover the main areas of the city and the outskirts of the prefecture. To explore Japan's best, spend at least 2 weeks here.
Kyoto is more relaxing. Tokyo is about 30% more expensive than Kyoto for travelers. If you prefer big cities, modern technology, nightlife and a huge selection of restaurants, Tokyo is for you. If you're after temples, shrines, garden, geisha and hiking, Kyoto is for you.
If you want to focus on one city, Tokyo is the one. However, Osaka offers many similar features and it's a great base to see a whole lot more. Having been to both multiple times, if I were a first-timer again and I can't afford to go to both, I would personally pick Osaka and see everything else around it.
You can visit Osaka at any time of year because the weather is temperate. The best times to visit Osaka are the fall (October/November) and spring (March/April/May). Summer (June/July/August) in Osaka is hot and humid. Winter (December/January/February) in Osaka is cold but not too cold for traveling.