A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Hiroshima vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

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

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hiroshima. Although Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Hiroshima has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hiroshima is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. It is also home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Hiroshima different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hiroshima is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Hiroshima from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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 Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

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 Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hiroshima is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Hiroshima has a few options to choose from. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

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.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.


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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hiroshima. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

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

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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.


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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

For backpackers, both Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are good places to visit.

Hiroshima is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

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

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

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 Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Hiroshima
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are great when it comes to walkability.

Hiroshima is very walkable. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

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


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

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

How long in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hiroshima than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hiroshima, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

Families should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Hiroshima. 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.

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


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

One day in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Hiroshima, there's plenty to do. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and nightlife around the meaningful city of Hiroshima, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the park-filled destination of Hiroshima. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Hiroshima or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Hiroshima is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hiroshima is $102, while the average daily cost in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $70. 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 Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hiroshima $65
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hiroshima $130
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $68
Compare Hotels in Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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


Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai


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: Hiroshima Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hiroshima $9.83
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

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

  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $494
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $238
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $225
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $225
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $211
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $60
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $60

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

Prices for flights to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hiroshima 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
    Hiroshima $30
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hiroshima

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

  • Hiroshima No1 food!! 'Okonomiyaki'-cooking class: $42
  • Local Favorites Private Night Food Tour: $69
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $83
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $84
  • Enjoy a Private Japanese Cooking Class with a Local Hiroshima Family: $90
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $99
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $160
  • Hiroshima Food Tour with a Local Foodie, 100% Personalised & Private: $235

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hiroshima $5.46
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.22

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hiroshima.

  • Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $68
  • 4 Hour Hiroshima Miyajima Private Tour: $84
  • An Amazing set of Cultural experience: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: $101
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $39
  • From Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour: $112
  • From Private Tour to Kure: $212
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Hiroshima and Miyajima: $115
  • Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima : $164
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $34
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour: $162
  • Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide: $165
  • Hiroshima Best Spots 6h Private Tour with Licensed Guide: $110

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hiroshima $12
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.40


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Chichibu-Tama-Kai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Hiroshima would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.



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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hiroshima are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. In July, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F)

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hiroshima during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hiroshima in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. Hiroshima usually gets less rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hiroshima and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many travelers come to Hiroshima for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hiroshima. In January, Hiroshima is generally a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 4°C (40°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Additionally, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty during these months.

Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hiroshima

Hiroshima Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in) 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)