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

Should you visit Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Wellington

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

Hiroshima and Wellington: 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
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Hiroshima or Wellington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Wellington than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Wellington, Wellington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Wellington is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Hiroshima attracts visitors for its museums. Wellington is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also well known for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Hiroshima different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hiroshima
Wellington

Hiroshima is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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 Wellington. 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.


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

Hiroshima
Wellington

Dining out at restaurants in both Hiroshima and Wellington can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Wellington has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. 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.

Is Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for its beaches. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.


Is Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Wellington is a city with good options for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Wellington?

Hiroshima
Wellington

If you're looking to go shopping, Hiroshima and Wellington both offer plenty of excellent spots.

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.

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

Is Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Families?

Hiroshima
Wellington

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

Wellington is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Wellington Better for Couples?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Both Hiroshima and Wellington 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.

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Wellington is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Hiroshima or Wellington Better for Students?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Wellington is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.


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

Hiroshima
Wellington

Hiroshima and Wellington both offer excellent public transit to get you around.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

The public transit in Wellington can get you around easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

Is Hiroshima or Wellington a more walkable city?

Hiroshima
Wellington

Hiroshima and Wellington are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Wellington is a very walkable city. 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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting? and Is Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Wellington?

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

Families should spend more time in Wellington than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima or Wellington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hiroshima 2-3 
    Wellington 2-3

One day in Hiroshima or Wellington?

With museums and nightlife around the memorable city of Hiroshima, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 city of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Hiroshima, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the funky destination of Wellington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hiroshima or Wellington?

Hiroshima, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 laid-back city of Wellington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hiroshima or Wellington?

Hiroshima is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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. 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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Wellington 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 Wellington is $103. 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 Wellington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hiroshima $64
    Wellington $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hiroshima $128
    Wellington $120
Compare Hotels in Hiroshima and Wellington

Looking for a hotel in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima


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: Hiroshima Hotel Prices and Wellington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hiroshima $9.71
    Wellington $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
  • Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport: $215
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Hiroshima International Airport to Hiroshima City: $215
  • Iwakuni Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $228
  • Hiroshima port Shore excursion Private transfer: $472
  • Hiroshima Airport to/from Hiroshima City Private Transfer: $171

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

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

  • Private Airport Transfer: $78
  • Wellington Airport Transfer to Wellington Hotels and Vice versa: $75
  • Private Transfer with Wellington Dial a Driver: $72
  • Wētā Workshop Experience with Guided Transfers: $61
  • Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Cruise Port to Wellington Hotels: $26
  • Departure Transfer: Wellington Central City Centre Hotels to Wellington Airport: $13
  • Arrival Transfer: Wellington Airport to Central Wellington City Centre Hotels: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Hiroshima or Wellington?

Prices for flights to both Wellington 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
    Wellington $29

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

Typical Food Prices in Wellington

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


  • Dinner
    $8.91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

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

  • Walking Food Tour Of Wellington: $151
  • A Taste Of Wellington Food Tour (half Day): $185

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hiroshima $5.39
    Wellington $16

Tours and Activities in Hiroshima

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

  • Kimono and Calligraphy Experience in Miyajima: $65
  • 4 Hour Hiroshima Miyajima Private Tour: $102
  • An Amazing set of Cultural experience: Kimono, Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy: $97
  • Field Archery Experience in Hiroshima, Japan: $37
  • From Hiroshima and Miyajima Island 1-Day Bus Tour: $107
  • From Private Tour to Kure: $126
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Hiroshima and Miyajima: $110
  • Full-Day Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima : $270
  • Guided Virtual Tour of Peace Park in Hiroshima/PEACE PARK TOUR VR: $32
  • Half Day Private Guided Walking Tour in Hiroshima City: $200
  • Half Trekking Tour with Panoramic View of Miyajima Included Lunch: $119
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima Island Private Guided Tour: $155

Tours and Activities in Wellington

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

  • 5 hour Wellington City Heights Shared tour: $90
  • A Taste of Kapiti - Kapiti Foodie Delights Tour: $288
  • From Cave to Coast Wellington Highlights Tour: $118
  • From Source to Sea Remutaka Mountain Bike Cycle Tour: $103
  • From Half-Day Foodie Tour of the Wairarapa: $105
  • From Taste Buds Tour of Petone: $165
  • Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour: $178
  • Full Day Tour of Wellington: $178
  • Full-Day Wellington Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour: $51
  • Fully customizable tours: $148
  • Guided Small Group Walking Tour in Wellington: $45
  • Guided Wellington Sightseeing Tour by Electric Bike: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hiroshima $12
    Wellington $12

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 Tour: $93
  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $95
  • 5 hour Martinborough shared Chefs Wine Tour with Gourmet lunch: $151
  • Martinborough Full Day Wine Tour: $169
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $356


When comparing the travel costs between Hiroshima and Wellington, we can see that Wellington 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 Wellington 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 Wellington Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Wellington?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Wellington. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Wellington, 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 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 Hiroshima has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Hiroshima or Wellington in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Hiroshima is a little warmer than Wellington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hiroshima in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Wellington averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wellington this time of the year. Hiroshima usually receives less sunshine than Wellington during summer. Hiroshima gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hiroshima usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin January. Hiroshima gets 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Hiroshima 26°C (79°F) 
    Wellington 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hiroshima as well as Wellington. Many visitors come to Hiroshima in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Hiroshima is generally a little warmer than Wellingtonin April. Daily temperatures in Hiroshima average around 17°C (63°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Hiroshima often gets more sunshine than Wellingtonin April. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 163 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Hiroshima gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Hiroshima 17°C (63°F) 
    Wellington 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Wellington in the Winter?

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

Hiroshima can be very cold during winter. Hiroshima is much colder than Wellington in the winter. The daily temperature in Hiroshima averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Wellington fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

Hiroshima usually receives more sunshine than Wellington during winter. Hiroshima gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Wellington receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In January, Hiroshima usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Hiroshima gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Hiroshima 4°C (40°F) 
    Wellington 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Hiroshima or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Hiroshima during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In the spring, Hiroshima is around the same temperature as Wellington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hiroshima in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Wellington averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

In the spring, Hiroshima often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wellingtonin October. Hiroshima gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wellington receives 180 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. Hiroshima usually gets more rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Hiroshima gets 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Hiroshima 14°C (56°F) 
    Wellington 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Wellington and Hiroshima

Hiroshima Wellington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 168 mm (6.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 260 mm (10.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 238 mm (9.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 185 mm (7.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)