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

Should you visit Kyoto or Te Anau?

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 Te Anau 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Te Anau

Te Anau is a breathtaking, stunning, and pristine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Kyoto and Te Anau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Te Anau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Te Anau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kyoto is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Te Anau is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Te Anau is well known for being the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

How is Kyoto different from Te Anau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is renowned for its museums and history. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. 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.

Te Anau offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town is about the surrounding outdoor activities but you will find the Te Anau Vintage Machinery Museum and the Te Anau Trout Observatory in town.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Kyoto and Te Anau.

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.

Te Anau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town makes a great spot to refuel after all of your hiking and outdoor adventures. There are plenty of cafes and food trucks around town where you can enjoy local dishes and a friendly atmosphere.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Te Anau is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. This is a small town that's focused on outdoor activities, but it does receive a number of tourists, so you'll find a few bars around town where you can hang out.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is renowned for its old town. However, Te Anau does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Kyoto is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Te Anau does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Hiking?

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

Around Te Anau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The town serves as basecamp for Fiordland National Park so there are many amazing hikes and walks in the area. Many of the hikes begin at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and range in length and the required skill level.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Te Anau?

Kyoto is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Kyoto is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Te Anau has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops where you can pick up any outdoor supplies and food items that you may need.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Families?

Te Anau is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Te Anau is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The town's proximity to the Milford Sound make it a nice base for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Kayaking or exploring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are favorite activities in the area. There's also the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and many hikes nearby.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kyoto. 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.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Couples?

Both Kyoto and Te Anau are world-class destinations for a couple's getaway.

Kyoto is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Te Anau is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The stunning scenery in the area, combined with small town charm, make this is a top couple's destination and a wonderful honeymoon spot. Couples who appreciate nature and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this amazing area.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto and Te Anau are great 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 Te Anau. For such a small town, there are a decent number of hostels and budget accommodation options in the area. The town makes a good base for exploring the region's stunning scenery.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau Better for Students?

Kyoto is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Te Anau is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Te Anau is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Kyoto has some very good public transit options. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Te Anau. Public transit in the area is limited and most visitors have their own car or join one of the many tours in the area.

Is Kyoto or Te Anau a more walkable city?

Kyoto is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Te Anau is generally not very walkable. Exploring the area requires a vehicle and, while there are many hikes in the area, it's not easy to walk to many places. There are tours available for those that don't have a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Te Anau or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Te Anau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Te Anau. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Te Anau. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-3 days is enough time in Te Anau.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Te Anau. 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 Te Anau 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 Te Anau?

In Kyoto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Even though Te Anau is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Te Anau?

In Kyoto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kyoto has to offer.

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

Kyoto is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Te Anau is a fun place to experience. Te Anau is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Te Anau?

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

Te Anau is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Kyoto and Te Anau, we can see that Te Anau 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 Te Anau 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 Te Anau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Te Anau?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 700 times larger than the population of Te Anau. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Te Anau, 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.