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

Should you visit Beijing or Nikko?

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 Nikko 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 historic, massive, and jam-packed city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

Nikko

Nikko is a peaceful, natural, and rural town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of Nikko is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Nikko travel costs.

Beijing and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beijing than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beijing is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Nikko and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Beijing different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nikko 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 Nikko?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Nikko.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. 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.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Beijing or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Beijing for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Beijing or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Nikko offers plenty to see. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is Beijing or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Nikko?

Beijing is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Beijing or Nikko More Beautiful?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Nikko is one of the main draws. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

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.

Is Beijing or Nikko Better for Families?

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

Nikko is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

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 Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Nikko is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Nikko are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Is Beijing or Nikko Better for Students?

Beijing is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. 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.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Nikko.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nikko. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Is Beijing or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Beijing or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Beijing due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Nikko 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 Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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.

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town 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 Nikko?

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

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Nikko?

Beijing is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Beijing has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Nikko, we can see that Nikko 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 Nikko would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nikko 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 Nikko Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Nikko?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 470 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Nikko. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Nikko. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Beijing is generally cooler than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Nikko. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Nikko. Many travelers come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Nikko in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nikko can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. Beijing is much colder than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Nikko. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Beijing is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Nikko. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Beijing