A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Beijing or Mount Aspiring 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 Beijing and Mount Aspiring 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Beijing and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Forbidden City
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing. Although Beijing and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Beijing has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beijing is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Beijing different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Beijing offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Beijing is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Beijing is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Beijing can get you to some places easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Beijing
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a national park with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Mount Aspiring National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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


  • How many days in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beijing 3-7 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.


Five days in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Beijing is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Beijing?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beijing is $78, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $116. 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 Beijing and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beijing $40
    Mount Aspiring National Park $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beijing $80
    Mount Aspiring National Park $126
Compare Hotels in Beijing and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Beijing or Mount Aspiring 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 Beijing


Hotels in Mount Aspiring 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: Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beijing $7.92
    Mount Aspiring National Park $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Beijing

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Beijing:


  • Taxi
    $4.84
  • Train from Airport for Two
    $7.09
  • Taxi to Hotel
    $8.51
  • 2 Metro Passes
    $2.27
  • Metro
    $0.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Beijing

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Beijing:

  • From Return Bus Transfer to Badaling Great Wall: $12
  • Private Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour w/ Optional Guide/Transfer: $15
  • From Mutianyu Great Wall Transfer with Pick-Up: $18
  • Beijing Daxing International Airport shuttle bus transfer service: $20
  • Beijing Airport Transfer: $21
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Train Stations: $22
  • Private transfer from Beijing Airport (PEK/PKX) to Beijing City: $23
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX): $27
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Airport (PEK or PKX): $27
  • Private Beijing Airport Transfer To Beijing Downtown Hotel: $28
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Beijing Airport: $29
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Beijing Airport (PEK/PKX): $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Beijing or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Beijing 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
    Beijing $20
    Mount Aspiring National Park $20
Typical Food Prices in Beijing

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beijing:


  • Popcorn
    $0.85
  • Hot Pot Dinner
    $7.09
  • Dumpling Breakfast for Two
    $2.84
  • Watermelon
    $1.99
  • Peking Duck Dinner for 2
    $17
  • Two Popsicles
    $0.85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Beijing

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Beijing.

  • Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings and Cuisine by Sunflowerli Renowned Chef : $20
  • Online Cooking Class Orange Chicken by Sunflower Li: $20
  • Temple of Heaven Private Tour w/Option Show &Dinner: $54
  • Beijing Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Hutong Breakfast Food Tour: $55
  • Gulou (the Drum Tower) of Beijing Dinner & Beer Walking Tour: $68
  • Beijing Gulou Night Market Food Tour: $68
  • Hidden Gems Guided Food Tour with Beer and Tastings: $75
  • Old Beijing Dinner Tour: $75
  • discovery more Beijing back street evening food tour with locals : $79
  • Acrobatic Show with Peking Duck Dinner Private Tour: $80
  • Beijing Hutong Neighborhood: Food and Dinner Tour: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beijing $25
    Mount Aspiring National Park $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beijing

Here are a few typical costs in Beijing for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Entry to Summer Palace for Two
    $8.51
  • Two Opera Tickets
    $60
  • Temple of Heaven Park Entrance (for 2)
    $9.93
  • Forbidden City (for 2)
    $17
  • Forbidden City Tickets
    $17
  • Audio Guides at Forbidden City
    $11

Tours and Activities in Beijing

Here are a few actual costs in Beijing for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tiananmen Square Ticket Fast and Smooth: $5.04
  • Temple of Heaven Ticket Booking: $6.50
  • Temple of Heaven Ticket Booking: $6.80
  • Temple of Heaven Tickets Booking: $7.00
  • Confucius Temple and the Impercial College E-ticket: $7.20
  • Temple of Earth ticket; Serene, Majestic, Ancient: $7.27
  • Beijing:Jingshan Park (Palace Museum Garden) Ticket: $7.42
  • Jingshan Park Entry ticket: $7.42
  • Beijing Temple of Heaven Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $7.88
  • Beijing Summer Palace Entrance Ticket (with Optional Guided Service): $7.88
  • Summer Palace+Ming Tombs/Heaven Temple/China National Museum Tour: $8.00
  • Confucius Temple and Imperial College Entrance Ticket : $8.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beijing $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.44

Sample the Local Flavors in Beijing

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Beijing:

  • Full Day Private Chateau Changyu Wine Tour from Beijing: $166
  • 5-Hour Private Changyu Chateau Wine Tasting Tour from Beijing: $178


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.