A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hiroshima vs. Darwin for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hiroshima or Darwin?

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 Darwin 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 memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Darwin

Darwin is a local, tropical, and multicultural town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hiroshima and Darwin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Hiroshima or Darwin?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Darwin than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Darwin, Darwin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Darwin is very popular for its beaches and hiking, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. Darwin is famous for its outdoor markets and tropical weather. It is also well known for Mindil Beach.

How is Hiroshima different from Darwin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hiroshima
Darwin

Hiroshima is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hiroshima are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.


Is the Food Better in Hiroshima or Darwin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Hiroshima is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima
Darwin

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Hiroshima and Darwin.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Darwin. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Beaches?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Darwin is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Darwin. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.


Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Hiking?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Darwin is a great town for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Darwin for the hiking trails. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Darwin?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Hiroshima is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Darwin has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Families?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Darwin is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Darwin is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

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 Darwin Better for Couples?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Both Hiroshima and Darwin are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hiroshima is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Darwin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima
Darwin

For backpackers, both Hiroshima and Darwin are nice 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 Darwin. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

Is Hiroshima or Darwin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Hiroshima is notable for its public transit. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. 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.

Darwin has some public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.


Is Hiroshima or Darwin a more walkable city?

Hiroshima
Darwin

Hiroshima is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Darwin is a somewhat walkable city. There are biking and walking paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting? and Is Darwin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Darwin or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Darwin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hiroshima and Darwin. In our opinion, Hiroshima has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hiroshima than Darwin. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hiroshima than Darwin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hiroshima that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hiroshima than Darwin 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 Darwin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hiroshima 2-3 
    Darwin 2-3

One day in Hiroshima or Darwin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Darwin. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hiroshima or Darwin?

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the multicultural destination of Darwin. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Hiroshima or Darwin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical town of Darwin. 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 Darwin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Darwin 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Darwin or Hiroshima?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hiroshima is $100, while the average daily cost in Darwin is $111. 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 Darwin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hiroshima $64
    Darwin $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hiroshima $128
    Darwin $124
Compare Hotels in Hiroshima and Darwin

Looking for a hotel in Hiroshima or Darwin? 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 Darwin


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 and Darwin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hiroshima $9.71
    Darwin $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

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

  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $54
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $59
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $171
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $215
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $215
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $228
  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $472

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Darwin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Darwin:


  • Shuttle to Train Station
    $9.73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Darwin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Darwin:

  • Darwin Int Airport (DRW) to Darwin - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $142
  • Crocodile Jumping Boat Cruise with Transfer from Darwin: $92
  • Darwin to Darwin Int Airport (DRW) - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Private Transfer from Darwin City Hotels to Darwin Cruise Port: $59
  • Private Transfer from Darwin Cruise Port to Darwin Airport (DRW): $59
  • Private Transfer from Darwin Airport (DRW) to Darwin Cruise Port: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Hiroshima or Darwin?

Prices for flights to both Darwin 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 $29
    Darwin $37

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: $40
  • Local Favorites Private Night Food Tour: $66
  • Food and Culture Guided Walking Tour with Dinner: $73
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $79
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $81
  • Enjoy a Private Japanese Cooking Class with a Local Hiroshima Family: $90
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $94
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $153

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Darwin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Darwin.

  • Sunset Harbour Cruise with Fish and Chips Dinner: $71
  • Darwin Harbor Sunset Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $85
  • Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise: $90
  • Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise on Cape Adieu: $96
  • Sunset 3-Hour Cruise from Darwin with Dinner and Sparkling Wine: $112

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hiroshima $5.39
    Darwin $15

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

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

  • Hiroshima:Visit Tourist Pass(1, 2, 3day and 3day middlearea): $6.32
  • Hiroshima Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Locals: $17
  • Visit World Heritage site Itsukushima Shrine by sea & Oyster raft tour: $25
  • Kumano Brush Factory Tour and Brush-Making Experience: $25
  • Mihara Goshushi Tour-Walking around the castle town Mihara-: $26
  • Peace Park Tour VR/Hiroshima: $32
  • Original Amulet Making Experience: $32
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $32
  • Traditional Japanese Archery Experience: $35
  • Japanese Traditional Archery Experience Hiroshima : $36
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $37
  • Tea ceremony experience near Atomic Bomb Dome: $41

Tours and Activities in Darwin

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Darwin are as follows:

  • 1 Day Corroboree Billabong Wetland Experience including 2.5 hour cruise + lunch: $139
  • 1 Hour Adelaide River Queen Jumping Crocodile Cruise: $26
  • 1 Hour Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River: $30
  • 4 Hour Self Guided Gourmet Lunch and Aboriginal Art Tours: $138
  • 4-Hour Outback Gourmet Food & Aboriginal Art Tour: $164
  • 4x4 Litchfield Park Adventures : $238
  • Bombing of Darwin WWII Heritage Tours: $89
  • Bombing of Darwin World War II Tour with Harbour Cruise: $98
  • Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruises - 1.5 hour Morning cruise: $50
  • Crocosaurus Cove General Admission Ticket: $26
  • Darwin City Explorer Tour: $102
  • Darwin City Sightseeing Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hiroshima $12
    Darwin $13

Typical Alcohol Prices in Darwin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Darwin from other travelers:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $16
  • Glass of Wine
    $4.54


When comparing the travel costs between Hiroshima and Darwin, we can see that Darwin 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 Hiroshima is in Asia and Darwin 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 Hiroshima Expensive? and Is Darwin Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Darwin?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Darwin. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Darwin, 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 Hiroshima or Darwin?

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

Should I visit Hiroshima or Darwin in the Summer?

Both Darwin and Hiroshima during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Darwin because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Darwin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hiroshima in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (83°F)in January.

In the summer, Hiroshima often gets more sunshine than Darwinin January. Hiroshima gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 173 hours of full sun.

Darwin 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 July than Darwinin January. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F) 
    Darwin 29°C (83°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Darwin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hiroshima and Darwin. The autumn months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Darwin this time of year.

In October, Hiroshima is generally much colder than Darwinin April. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 17°C (63°F), and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Darwin this time of the year. Hiroshima usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during autumn. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 267 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Darwinin April. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F) 
    Darwin 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Darwin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Darwin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Darwin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Hiroshima in the winter. Hiroshima is much colder than Darwin in the winter. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Darwin fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. In the winter, Hiroshima often gets less sunshine than Darwinin July. Hiroshima gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 312 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima usually gets more rain in January than Darwinin July. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F) 
    Darwin 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Darwin in the Spring?

Both Darwin and Hiroshima are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Darwin in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Hiroshima is much colder than Darwin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hiroshima in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (85°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Darwin. Hiroshima usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during spring. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 291 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. In April, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Darwinin October. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F) 
    Darwin 29°C (85°F)

Typical Weather for Darwin and Hiroshima

Hiroshima Darwin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 29°C (83°F) 437 mm (17.2 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 28°C (83°F) 343 mm (13.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 28°C (83°F) 342 mm (13.5 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in) 29°C (84°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 26°C (78°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 28°C (83°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 29°C (85°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 30°C (85°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 29°C (85°F) 234 mm (9.2 in)