A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Matsue vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Matsue or Christchurch?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Matsue and Christchurch 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.

Matsue

Matsue is a pretty, serene, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Matsue and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Matsue or Christchurch?

You'll generally find more things to do in Christchurch than Matsue. Christchurch is bigger than Matsue, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Christchurch is better known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Matsue is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Matsue is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Also, Christchurch is famous for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Matsue different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Matsue or Christchurch?

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Matsue and Christchurch.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Is the Food Better in Matsue or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Matsue and Christchurch can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Matsue. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Christchurch is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Christchurch know how to have a good time. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is a great destination for the beache. However, Matsue is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Christchurch attract visitors from all over. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a popular place for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Matsue to see the old town. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Matsue or Christchurch?

Christchurch is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Christchurch is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Matsue has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Christchurch is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Matsue is a good town for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Christchurch is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of backpackers visit Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is a great destination for students. However, Matsue is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Matsue is not popular with students.

Is Matsue or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Matsue is well known for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Matsue has some very good public transit options. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Matsue or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Matsue and Christchurch both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Matsue is a very walkable town. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Matsue Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Matsue?

How long in Matsue or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Matsue or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Matsue, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Matsue 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 Christchurch.

One day in Matsue or Christchurch?

In Matsue, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this pretty town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Matsue or Christchurch?

Matsue is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Matsue or Christchurch?

You'll find food and shopping around the pretty destination of Matsue. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Matsue or Christchurch?

Matsue is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Christchurch. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Matsue or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Matsue. When comparing the sizes of Matsue and Christchurch, 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 Matsue or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Matsue or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Matsue are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Matsue for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Matsue is a little warmer than Christchurch in the summer. The daily temperature in Matsue averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Matsue. Matsue usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during summer. Matsue gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. In July, Matsue usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Matsue gets 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Matsue or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch and Matsue during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Matsue in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Matsue is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Matsue in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

In the autumn, Matsue often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Christchurchin April. Matsue gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. Matsue usually gets more rain in October than Christchurchin April. Matsue gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Matsue or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Matsue and Christchurch. Most visitors come to Matsue for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Matsue can be very cold during winter. In January, Matsue is generally cooler than Christchurchin July. Daily temperatures in Matsue average around 4°C (39°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Matsue usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during winter. Matsue gets 84 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Matsue usually receives more rain than Christchurchin July. Matsue gets 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Matsue or Christchurch in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Matsue as well as Christchurch. The spring months attract visitors to Matsue because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

Matsue is around the same temperature as Christchurch in the spring. The daily temperature in Matsue averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. In the spring, Matsue often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Christchurchin October. Matsue gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the spring. Matsue usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Matsue gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Matsue