A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua 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 natural, beautiful, and peaceful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rotorua than Chichibu-Tama-Kai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rotorua is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Also, Rotorua is famous for Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotorua is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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.

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

Rotorua is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Rotorua. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Rotorua is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Rotorua has a few options to choose from. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Rotorua are destinations which offer great 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.

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

Rotorua is a town with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rotorua. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

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

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly national park. 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.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

Rotorua is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

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

Rotorua is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Rotorua offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

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.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

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

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rotorua than in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

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

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

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Rotorua, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer.

With museums and nightlife around the natural town of Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the natural destination of Rotorua. 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 Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Rotorua 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

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

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 Rotorua Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rotorua is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chichibu-Tama-Kai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Rotorua. The summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 25°C (78°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Rotorua. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In the winter, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotorua for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally cooler than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 13°C (56°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Chichibu-Tama-Kai