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

Should you visit Hiroshima or Torquay?

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 Torquay 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Torquay

Torquay is a trendy, casual, and laid back surf town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Torquay is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Torquay travel costs.

Hiroshima and Torquay: 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
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 Torquay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Torquay. Although Hiroshima and Torquay are popular destinations, Torquay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Torquay is very popular for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation. Torquay is famous for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere. It is also well known for Bells Beach.

How is Hiroshima different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hiroshima
Torquay

Hiroshima is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hiroshima are world-renowned. 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 Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.


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

Hiroshima
Torquay

Hiroshima is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hiroshima has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Hiroshima or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima
Torquay

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

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 Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Hiroshima or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Torquay is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Torquay is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.


Is Hiroshima or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Hiroshima
Torquay

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

Many visitors go to Torquay for the hiking trails. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Torquay?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Hiroshima is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Hiroshima is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Hiroshima or Torquay More Beautiful?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Torquay is a surf town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Torquay is a gorgeous place to visit. There's a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and nice coastal walks.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hiroshima or Torquay Better for Families?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Both Hiroshima and Torquay are nice to visit with kids.

Hiroshima offers lots of family activities. 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.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Hiroshima or Torquay Better for Couples?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Torquay is a great surf town for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Torquay is a great surf town if you're traveling as a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

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 Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima
Torquay

For backpackers, both Hiroshima and Torquay 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 Torquay. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.


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

Hiroshima
Torquay

Hiroshima is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its public transit.

Hiroshima has some very good public transit options. 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.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Hiroshima or Torquay a more walkable city?

Hiroshima
Torquay

Hiroshima and Torquay are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Torquay is a very walkable city. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

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

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Torquay?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hiroshima and Torquay. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Hiroshima or Torquay?

In Hiroshima, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the surf town of Torquay. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Torquay?

In Hiroshima, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hiroshima has to offer.

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

Five days in Hiroshima or Torquay?

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. 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 casual surf town of Torquay. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hiroshima or Torquay?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hiroshima. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Torquay is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Torquay or Hiroshima?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hiroshima is $126, while the average daily cost in Torquay is $106. 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 Torquay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hiroshima $67
    Torquay $39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hiroshima $134
    Torquay $78
Compare Hotels in Hiroshima and Torquay

Looking for a hotel in Hiroshima or Torquay? 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 Torquay


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 $10
    Torquay $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hiroshima

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

  • Private Transfer Hiroshima Airport: $292
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $272
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $244
  • Hiroshima City: Private Transfer to/from Hiroshima Airport: $189
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port: $182
  • Private Transfer from Hiroshima Port to Hiroshima Airport (HIJ): $164
  • Shared Arrival Transfer : Hiroshima Airport to Hiroshima City: $128
  • Shared Departure Transfer : Hiroshima City to Hiroshima Airport: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Hiroshima or Torquay?

Prices for flights to both Torquay 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 $52
    Torquay $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hiroshima

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

  • Okonomiyaki Cooking Class with a Local Chef: $59
  • Food and Culture Guided Walking Tour with Dinner: $82
  • Dinner Cruise on HANAIKADA (Raft-Type Boat) with Scenic View of Miyajima: $100
  • Bar Hopping Food Tour: $103
  • Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour: $105
  • Private Japanese Cooking Class in Hiroshima with Machiko's Family: $108
  • Hiroshima Peace Bicycle Tour and Okonomiyaki Dinner: $113
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $182
  • Best of Hiroshima Food Tour: $221
  • Private Nature, History, and Food Tour: $629

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hiroshima $5.58
    Torquay $11

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

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

  • 1 Day Tour Onomichi Temples Exploration and Saijo Sake Tasting: $175
  • 1-Day Miyajima Sightseeing Tour: $186
  • 1-Day Tour: Hiroshima Hidden Gems & Highlights: $161
  • 2 Hour Private Morning Tour Highlights in Peace Memorial Park: $103
  • 2-Hour Private Hiroshima Morning Tour: $103
  • 3 Hour Nanaura Tour around Miyajima with Lunch Box: $264
  • 30 Minutes One Way Cruise from Miyahama Onsen to Miyajima: $119
  • 4 Hour Private Hiroshima City Walking Tour: $95
  • 7 hours Private Customizable Walking Tour in Hiroshima: $300
  • Abacus & Calligraphy Experience Near Hiroshima Peace Park: $20
  • Abacus & Calligraphy Experience Near Hiroshima Peace Park: $21
  • Amazing Private City Tour with a Local Guide: $135

Tours and Activities in Torquay

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

  • Enjoy a VIP Booth Shared Experience From Gympie: $106
  • Experience History onboard The Mary Valley Rattler: $46
  • Fraser Island & Dolphin Sailing Adventure: $74
  • Freedom 3/4 Day Hervey Bay Premium Whale Watching Cruise: $124
  • Hervey Bay Sunset Cruise: $64
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience: $99
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) West Coast Half Day Cruise from Hervey Bay: $107
  • Milbi Sunset Cruise with Champagne and Prawns: $59
  • Morning Farm Experience near Gympie & Noosa: $59
  • SUMMER K'gari (Fraser Island) Boom-net & Sightseeing Cruise: $40
  • Spirit of Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $104
  • Sunset Twilight Cruise in Hervey Bay: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hiroshima $12
    Torquay $7.48

Sample the Local Flavors in Hiroshima

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Hiroshima:

  • Visit behind the Scenes: Hiroshima Saijo Sake Brewery Tour: $124
  • Half-Day Saijo Tour Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour in Hiroshima: $131
  • Private Goma Fire Ritual, Lunch & Sake Brewery Visits : $200


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hiroshima and Torquay, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Torquay much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hiroshima is in Asia and Torquay 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 Torquay would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Torquay 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 Torquay.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hiroshima Expensive? and Is Torquay Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Torquay?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Torquay, 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 Torquay?

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

Both Torquay and Hiroshima are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Torquay because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Torquay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hiroshima in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Torquay averages at about 26°C (78°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Torquay. It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. In July, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Torquayin January. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F) 
    Torquay 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Torquay in the Autumn?

Both Torquay and Hiroshima during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

In October, Hiroshima is generally cooler than Torquayin April. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 17°C (63°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F) 
    Torquay 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Torquay in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hiroshima and Torquay. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Torquay for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Hiroshima in the winter. Hiroshima is much colder than Torquay in the winter. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Torquay fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

In January, Hiroshima usually receives less rain than Torquayin July. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F) 
    Torquay 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Torquay in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Torquay. Additionally, many visitors come to Torquay in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hiroshima is much colder than Torquay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hiroshima in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Torquay averages at about 21°C (71°F)in October.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in April than Torquayin October. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F) 
    Torquay 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Torquay and Hiroshima

Hiroshima Torquay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)