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

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington?

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 Wellington 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Wellington

Wellington is a funky, compact, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington: Pros and Cons

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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wellington. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington are popular destinations, Wellington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wellington is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Wellington is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Wellington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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 Wellington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Wellington for the nightlife scene. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington Better for Beaches?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is great for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Wellington attract visitors from all over. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.


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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is great for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington are excellent 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.

Wellington is a very kid-friendly national park. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.


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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Wellington is a good national park for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Wellington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

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 Wellington Better for Students?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Wellington is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.


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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

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

Public transit in Wellington is fairly effecient and thorough. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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 Wellington a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Wellington

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Wellington is a very walkable national park. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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

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

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wellington 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 Wellington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington 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 Wellington.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Wellington 2-3

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington?

With around the beautiful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai, one day is sufficent for most.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Wellington, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Wellington?

With around the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

With museums and nightlife around the compact city of Wellington, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Wellington?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact destination of Wellington. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Wellington?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wellington is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Wellington or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $75, while the average daily cost in Wellington is $110. 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $36
    Wellington $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $72
    Wellington $128
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington? 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Hotels in Wellington


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: Wellington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $22
    Wellington $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

Also for Wellington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Wellington Transfer: Airport(WLG)to/from City Center: $90
  • Private Transfer with Wellington Dial a Driver: $76
  • Wētā Workshop Experience with Guided Transfers: $65
  • Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington - Arrival Private Transfer: $29
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Cruise Port to Wellington Hotels: $27
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Wellington?

Prices for flights to both Wellington and Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $26
    Wellington $31

Typical Food Prices in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner
    $9.51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hour Walking Food Tour: $132
  • Capital Bites, A food tour of Wellington: $143
  • Walking Food Tour Of Wellington: $159
  • A Taste Of Wellington Food Tour (half Day): $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.69
    Wellington $17

Tours and Activities in Wellington

For Wellington, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 30 Mins Lamborghini Supercar Passenger Experience: $140
  • 5 hour Wellington City Heights Shared tour: $96
  • Discover Maori and explore Wellington - Full Day Tour: $175
  • Discover Wellington - 3hr City Tour: $55
  • Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour : $57
  • Easy Rider Two-Hour Wellington eBike Tour: $73
  • Filming locations of Lord of The Rings Tour with Guide: $185
  • From Cave to Coast Wellington Highlights Tour: $124
  • From Half-Day Foodie Tour of the Wairarapa: $108
  • From Kapiti Island Classic Guided Day Tour: $307
  • From Taste Buds Tour of Petone: $171
  • Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour: $188

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.94
    Wellington $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Wellington

Also in Wellington, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $99
  • 1/2 day Martinborough Chefs Wine Tour with lunch from Wellington: $159
  • Martinborough Full Day Wine Tour: $178
  • From Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour: $179
  • 6hr Martinborough Chefs private wine tour ŵ lunch from Wellington: $255
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $370


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



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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington 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 Wellington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Wellington. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wellington in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a little warmer than Wellington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Wellington averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Wellington 18°C (64°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Wellington. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally a little warmer than Wellingtonin April. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Wellington 15°C (58°F)

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

Both Wellington and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Wellington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Wellington in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Wellington fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Wellington 10°C (49°F)

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

Both Wellington and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Wellington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Wellington averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Wellington 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Wellington and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Wellington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)