A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Kamakura for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Beijing or Kamakura?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Kamakura 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a jam-packed, cultural, and fascinating city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Beijing travel costs.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a charming, laid back, and ancient coastal city. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Kamakura travel costs.

Beijing and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Kamakura?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Kamakura. Beijing is bigger than Kamakura, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kamakura is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, and hiking. Beijing is more touristy than Kamakura and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Kamakura is well known for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Beijing different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Beijing that are not to be missed. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Many visitors head to Kamakura specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Beijing is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Kamakura has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Kamakura has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Kamakura has something for everybody. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Kamakura is a coastal city with good options for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Kamakura. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a coastal city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Kamakura offers a nice historic old town area. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Kamakura is a coastal city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Beijing is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Beijing or Kamakura More Beautiful?

Beijing is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Families?

Both Beijing and Kamakura are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Kamakura offers lots of family activities. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Kamakura is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Kamakura frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Beijing. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Students?

Beijing is a well-known place for students. However, Kamakura is not popular with students.

Beijing is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Kamakura is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Kamakura Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Kamakura has some public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Beijing or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Kamakura is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable coastal city. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Beijing or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Beijing than Kamakura because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamakura.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Kamakura 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 Beijing.

One day in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Kamakura, you'll find nightlife and food. This coastal city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kamakura, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kamakura has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamakura is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamakura. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kamakura. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Kamakura?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Kamakura. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Kamakura, 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 Beijing or Kamakura?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Kamakura in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Kamakura. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kamakura in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is around the same temperature as Kamakura. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Kamakura averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Kamakura. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Kamakura in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Kamakura. Many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kamakura for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Beijing is generally cooler than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Kamakura. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Kamakura in the Winter?

Both Kamakura and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. Beijing is much colder than Kamakura in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Kamakura fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Kamakura in the Spring?

Both Kamakura and Beijing during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Kamakura this time of year.

In the spring, Beijing is around the same temperature as Kamakura. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Kamakura averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 161 hours of full sun.

Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Kamakura. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Beijing