A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Picton for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kyoto or Picton?

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 Picton 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 historic, cultural, and fascinating city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Picton

Picton is a relaxing, picturesque, and scenic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Kyoto and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Picton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto. Although Kyoto and Picton are both popular with visitors, Kyoto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Picton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Kyoto is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Picton is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Kyoto different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kyoto is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kyoto on the map. 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.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Kyoto and Picton.

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.

Picton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Beaches?

Picton is a great destination for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Picton attract visitors from all over. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Picton does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto has a world-famous historical 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.

Picton does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Hiking?

Picton is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Picton?

Kyoto is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Kyoto. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Families?

Both Kyoto and Picton are very good 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 Picton. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Couples?

Kyoto is very popular for couples. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Picton are very good 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 Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Is Kyoto or Picton Better for Students?

Kyoto is a well-known place for students. However, Picton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Picton is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Picton 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 Kyoto can get you to most places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Kyoto or Picton a more walkable city?

Kyoto is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Picton or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kyoto or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kyoto than Picton 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 Picton.

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Picton. 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 Picton. 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 Picton 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 Picton?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Picton, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Picton?

Kyoto 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Picton. 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 Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kyoto. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Picton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Picton. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional destination of Kyoto. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Picton. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Picton?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 490 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Picton, 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 Kyoto or Picton?

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

Should I visit Kyoto or Picton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Picton. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kyoto is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Picton averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Picton. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Picton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Pictonin April. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kyoto usually gets more rain in October than Pictonin April. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. Kyoto is much colder than Picton in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Picton. In January, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kyoto or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton and Kyoto during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Kyoto is a little warmer than Picton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Picton averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Pictonin October. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Picton and Kyoto