A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Matsue vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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 historic, quiet, and peaceful 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Matsue and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Matsue than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Matsue is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Matsue is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. Also, Matsue is famous for the Matsue Castle. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Matsue different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Matsue can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a moderate town for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Matsue specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for its Old Town?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Matsue offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Matsue can get you to some places easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Matsue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Matsue is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable town. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Matsue Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Matsue?

How long in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Matsue because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Matsue, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Matsue than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Matsue.


  • How many days in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Matsue 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The historic destination of Matsue offers food and shopping. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Matsue. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Matsue has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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.


Five days in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Matsue is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful town of Matsue. It offers something for everyone. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undeveloped destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. This national park 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 Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Matsue?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Matsue is $65, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. 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 Matsue and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Matsue $26
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Matsue $52
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Matsue and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ? 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 Matsue


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


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: Matsue Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Matsue $20
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Matsue

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Matsue:

  • Private Transfer from Sakaiminato Cruise Port to Osaka city : $131
  • Private Transfer from Sakaiminato Port to Osaka Int Airport KIX: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Matsue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Matsue 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
    Matsue $27
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Matsue $8.81
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Matsue

Here are a few actual costs in Matsue for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Tour around Matsue Horikawa: $11
  • Private Kimono Elegant Experience in the Castle Town of Matsue: $36
  • An E-Bike cycling tour of Matsue that will add to your enjoyment of the city: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Matsue $6.85
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Matsue and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.