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

Should you visit Beijing or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high energy, vibrant, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Beijing and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Tokyo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing. Although Beijing and Tokyo are popular destinations, Beijing has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beijing is more touristy than Tokyo and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

How is Beijing different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Tokyo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Beijing and Tokyo can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

Eat your way through Tokyo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Beijing or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. 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.

Is Beijing or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

In Tokyo you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Tokyo is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

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.

Is Beijing or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

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 Tokyo Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

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 Beijing or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. 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.

Many students visit 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.

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

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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.

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.

Is Beijing or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Tokyo?

Both Beijing 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 Beijing. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Beijing or Tokyo?

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.

In Tokyo, you'll find shopping and museums. This city 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 Tokyo?

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.

In Tokyo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Beijing or Tokyo?

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.

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo. In Tokyo, you'll find live music and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo 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 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 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 Tokyo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Beijing. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Beijing is around the same temperature as Tokyo in the summer. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Tokyo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Tokyo. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Beijing is cooler than Tokyo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beijing in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Tokyo averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Tokyo. Most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. In January, Beijing is generally much colder than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around -4°C (26°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Tokyo. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

Beijing is around the same temperature as Tokyo in the spring. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Beijing