A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Arrowtown for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Kyoto or Arrowtown?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Arrowtown 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.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a quaint, quirky, and historic town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Kyoto and Arrowtown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto. Although Kyoto and Arrowtown are popular destinations, Kyoto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kyoto is very popular for its museums, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Arrowtown attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also well known for Kinkaku-ji. Arrowtown is famous for its gold rush history, impressive ski slopes, and famous hikes.

How is Kyoto different from Arrowtown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arrowtown and Kyoto. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Skiing?

Arrowtown is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Kyoto is not a skiing destination.

People head to Arrowtown specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. In the area you'll find amazing skiing that ranges from professional level to family-friendly.

Kyoto is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Kyoto is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kyoto from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Arrowtown offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town feels likes a living museum with its historic sights. There's also the Lakes District Museum in town that you can visit.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Arrowtown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Kyoto and Arrowtown.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kyoto. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Arrowtown has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. For such a small town, there's a surprising number of great restaurants with award winning chefs. You'll find quaint cafes, traditional eateries, and casual restaurants where you can sample the local dishes.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Arrowtown has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

If you're looking for night time activities Arrowtown has a few options to choose from. For such a small town, there's a surprisingly bustling nightlife scene with casual pubs and waterfront bars.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is terrific for its historic old town. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Kyoto has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Many visitors go to Arrowtown to see the historical old town. This is a quirky and charming historic mining town that has many cottages and historic buildings. Many places have been restored to maintain their original character.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Hiking?

Arrowtown is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Around Arrowtown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Many people use this town as a jumping off point for some of the world's most iconic hikes. You can explore Lord of the Rings country or do one of fifteen different listed walks in the area.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Arrowtown and Kyoto.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Arrowtown. Shopping is an experience in town. Head to Buckingham Street, which is the main street in town. You can wander through a wild west setting with local vendors and quirky galleries.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Arrowtown are superb to visit with kids.

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Arrowtown. Kids will enjoy the old world charm as much as adults. There's gold panning, bike trails, and even a historic Chinese village. During the winter there are snow sports and during the summer there are outdoor activities that take advantage of the nice weather.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Couples?

Kyoto is terrific for romance. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Kyoto has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Couples visit Arrowtown frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming atmosphere and beautiful walks make this a great weekend destination for couples. You can take a stroll on the Arrow River Walkway or grab a meal at a quaint cafe followed by ice cream at a classic ice cream parlor.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Arrowtown are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arrowtown. There are a couple of hostels in town and backpackers love the frequent festivals and activities that the town hosts.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Students?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Arrowtown is not popular with students.

Kyoto is very popular with students. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Arrowtown is not popular with students.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Kyoto is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

You'll find some public transit in Arrowtown, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses throughout the region.

Is Kyoto or Arrowtown a more walkable city?

Kyoto is terrific for its walkability. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Arrowtown is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Arrowtown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arrowtown or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Arrowtown 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 Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Even though Arrowtown is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arrowtown. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arrowtown is a fun place to experience. Arrowtown is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Arrowtown is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kyoto and Arrowtown, we can see that Arrowtown is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kyoto is in Asia and Arrowtown 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 Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Arrowtown would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arrowtown than you might in Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Arrowtown?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 680 times larger than the population of Arrowtown. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Arrowtown, 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.