A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Lake Tekapo for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. With stunning beauty, Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Chichibu-Tama-Kai travel costs.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a basic, small, and remote town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Lake Tekapo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Lake Tekapo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is better known for its museums and attractions, while Lake Tekapo is more popular for its shopping and small town charm. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for Mitake-Shosenkyo Gorge. Lake Tekapo is well known for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Tekapo and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lake Tekapo. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Neither Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Chichibu-Tama-Kai Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

People don't go to Lake Tekapo for the nightlife. This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo are destinations which offer very good hiking.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Lake Tekapo is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Lake Tekapo is mediocre for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This park is perfectly positioned to offer a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's filled with beautiful forests and serene hiking trails that make for a wonderful day away.

The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. You really want to get out of town and explore the area's stunning natural beauty.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo are very good to visit with kids.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very family-friendly destination. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Lake Tekapo is a very kid-friendly national park. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great destination for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo are notable places to visit.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a good national park to visit for backpackers. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Plenty of backpackers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a national park with a few options for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable destination. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Lake Tekapo is somewhat walkable. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

For even more information, also check out Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. In our opinion, Chichibu-Tama-Kai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Lake Tekapo. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Lake Tekapo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chichibu-Tama-Kai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Lake Tekapo 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the natural national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the destination of Lake Tekapo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the small town of Lake Tekapo, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

The beautiful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the remote destination of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lake Tekapo is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Chichibu-Tama-Kai is in Asia and Lake Tekapo is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive? and Is Lake Tekapo Expensive?.