A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Tokyo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bali or Tokyo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Tokyo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bali and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Tokyo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Bali, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Bali is more touristy than Tokyo and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple.

How is Bali different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Tokyo?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bali and Tokyo offer a number of world-class restaurants to choose from.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Both Bali and Tokyo are world-class when it comes to partying.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Tokyo is a must-see party destination. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Bali is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Tokyo The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Bali is not a live music destination.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Resorts?

Bali is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Bali is a great choice. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Bali a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Beaches?

Bali is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Bali. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Hiking?

Bali is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Bali for the hiking trails. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Tokyo?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bali. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Bali is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Bali makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for students. However, Bali is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Bali is not popular with students.

Is Bali or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Tokyo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Is Bali or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Tokyo on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Bali?

How long in Bali or Tokyo?

Both Bali and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Bali. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Bali. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tokyo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Tokyo 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 Bali.

One day in Bali or Tokyo?

In Bali, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

Tokyo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Bali or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. 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.

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Tokyo?

Bali is a fun place to experience. In Bali, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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.

Tokyo is a cutting edge big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Tokyo?

In Bali, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this stunning 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. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Tokyo is a eclectic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Bali much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bali would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bali 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Bali.

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

Which is Bigger, Bali or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Tokyo, 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.

When is the best time to visit Bali or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bali as well as Tokyo. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bali is around the same temperature as Tokyo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bali in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Tokyo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the summer, Bali often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Tokyo. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Should I visit Bali or Tokyo in the Autumn?

Both Tokyo and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In October, Bali is generally much warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bali. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.

Should I visit Bali or Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo and Bali during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bali is much warmer than Tokyo in the winter. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Bali often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Tokyo. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Bali.

Should I visit Bali or Tokyo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Tokyo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bali is much warmer than Tokyo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bali in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Tokyo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. April to September in Bali is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Bali