A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Atami vs. Fiordland National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Atami or Fiordland National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Atami and Fiordland National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Atami

Atami is a overlooked, nostalgic, and authentic town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a stunning, iconic, and breathtaking national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Atami and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Milford Track
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atami. Although Atami and Fiordland National Park are popular destinations, Atami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atami is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Fiordland National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Fiordland National Park is more touristy than Atami and is known for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments. Atami is famous for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches. It is also well known for Kinomiya Shrine.

How is Atami different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Atami is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Atami or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Atami. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for nightlife. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Atami. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fiordland National Park. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Beaches?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for its beaches. However, Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Atami to enjoy the beach. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Fiordland National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Atami is not a hiking destination.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Atami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Atami. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.


Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Fiordland National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Atami is a good town for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Fiordland National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atami. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Atami or Fiordland National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Atami has some public transit options. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.


Is Atami or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Atami
Fiordland National Park

Atami is very good for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Atami is somewhat walkable. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Atami Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Atami?

How long in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Atami and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fiordland National Park than Atami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Atami, and 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atami than Fiordland National Park 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 Atami.


  • How many days in Atami or Fiordland National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atami 1-2 
    Fiordland National Park 3-6

One day in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the authentic town of Atami. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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 Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Atami is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. 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.


Five days in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Atami is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Fiordland National Park is a fun place to experience. In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Atami or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the world famous destination of Fiordland National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in New Zealand, and The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Fiordland National Park or Atami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atami is $93, while the average daily cost in Fiordland National Park is $103. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Atami and Fiordland National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atami $46
    Fiordland National Park $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atami $92
    Fiordland National Park $102
Compare Hotels in Atami and Fiordland National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atami or Fiordland National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Atami


Hotels in Fiordland National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Atami Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atami $38
    Fiordland National Park $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atami

Also for Atami, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Izu/ Atami City: Private Transfer to/from Narita Airport: $724
  • Haneda Airport to/from Izu or Atami City Private Transfer: $621

Is it cheaper to fly into Atami or Fiordland National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fiordland National Park and Atami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Atami $26
    Fiordland National Park $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atami

For Atami, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Odawara Castle Private Tour with Optional Japanese Dinner: $178
  • Izakaya Dinner and Karaoke Lounge: $178

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atami $8.29
    Fiordland National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Atami

For Atami, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • "Explore Atami's Culinary Culture" Walking Tour: $49
  • Exclusive Geisha Experience: $127
  • Hakone one day tour: $178
  • Ninja, Samurai, Odawara Castle Experience: $142
  • Odawara Castle and Town Guided Discovery Tour: $128
  • Sushi and Karaoke Experience in Japan: $249

Tours and Activities in Fiordland National Park

For Fiordland National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour with Local Guide: $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atami $5.88
    Fiordland National Park $8.61


When comparing the travel costs between Atami and Fiordland National Park, we can see that Fiordland National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Atami is in Asia and Fiordland National Park is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atami Expensive? and Is Fiordland National Park Expensive?.