A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagasaki vs. Byron Bay for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a interesting, authentic, and welcoming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a mellow, vegan-friendly, and carefree town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Nagasaki and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagasaki. Although Nagasaki and Byron Bay are both popular with visitors, Nagasaki has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagasaki is more popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while Byron Bay is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nagasaki is popular for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. It is also home to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Byron Bay is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals.

How is Nagasaki different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Nagasaki is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Nagasaki. Nagasaki Peace Park is a moving tribute to those lost during the atomic bomb attack. Other sights around town include the Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Kofukuji Temple, and Huis Ten Bosch.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.


Is the Food Better in Nagasaki or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Foodies will find both Nagasaki and Byron Bay both to be excellent destinations.

Nagasaki has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a cosmopolitan cuisine which has been influenced by China and several Western cuisines. Popular local dishes include Chanpon (a noodle dish), Sara Udon (meat, vegetables, and noodles), and Kakuni Manju (pork belly on a dough bun).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Byron Bay makes for a great culinary experience. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Nagasaki and Byron Bay.

Nagasaki has a large number of nightlife venues. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Byron Bay is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagasaki is not a resort destination.

Byron Bay is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Nagasaki is not a resort destination.


Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Byron Bay. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Byron Bay is a good destination for hiking. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Nagasaki is a great destination for shopping. Head to the waterfront for the best shopping opportunities. You'll find everything from malls to souvenir shops around town. You'll also find traditional market streets which are known as shōtengai.


Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Nagasaki is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nagasaki or Byron Bay.

Nagasaki is a family-friendly city. Check out Agiruno Oka Park, which has a small farm and other recreational activities. There are also several kid-friendly museums like the Nagasaki City Science Museum and the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium. There are also many parks and playgrounds as well as the Nagasaki Seaside Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Byron Bay. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Byron Bay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Nagasaki is a nice destination for couples. There's a unique cuisine with good restaurants. There are also many parks where couples can take a stroll, as well as relaxing hot springs nearby.


Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

Nagasaki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Nagasaki is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nagasaki can get you around easily. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Nagasaki or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Nagasaki
Byron Bay

Nagasaki and Byron Bay are good when it comes to walkability.

Nagasaki is a somewhat walkable city. Many parts of the city can be explored by foot. The downtown is about a kilometer from Nagasaki Station and the Peace Park is several kilometers in the other direction from the station.

Byron Bay is somewhat walkable. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Nagasaki Worth Visiting? and Is Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Both Nagasaki and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Nagasaki. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagasaki, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay than Nagasaki 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 Byron Bay.


  • How many days in Nagasaki or Byron Bay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagasaki 2-3 
    Byron Bay 3-7

One day in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nagasaki. 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.

The beautiful town of Byron Bay offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the interesting destination of Nagasaki. 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.

Byron Bay is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Nagasaki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Byron Bay is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Byron Bay, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Nagasaki is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Byron Bay is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Byron Bay has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Byron Bay or Nagasaki?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagasaki is $114, while the average daily cost in Byron Bay is $175. 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 Nagasaki and Byron Bay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagasaki $49
    Byron Bay $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagasaki $98
    Byron Bay $134
Compare Hotels in Nagasaki and Byron Bay

Looking for a hotel in Nagasaki or Byron Bay? 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 Nagasaki


Hotels in Byron Bay


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: Nagasaki Hotel Prices and Byron Bay Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagasaki $19
    Byron Bay $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagasaki

Also for Nagasaki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Nagasaki Airport (NGS) to Nagasaki Port: $117
  • Nagasaki City to Nagasaki International Airport Private Departure Transfer: $196
  • Nagasaki International Airport to Nagasaki City Private Arrival Transfer: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Prices for flights to both Byron Bay and Nagasaki 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
    Nagasaki $50
    Byron Bay $83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagasaki

For Nagasaki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking with a Local Okaasan at Kominka in Ojika Island Nagasaki: $41
  • Sunset Beach Dinner: $53

Typical Food Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of dining costs in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Byron Bay

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Byron Bay.

  • Bangalow Native Bush Food Tour: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagasaki $23
    Byron Bay $36

Tours and Activities in Nagasaki

For Nagasaki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Nagasaki GPS App Walking Tour Mobile Game: $12
  • Gunkanjima Digital Museum Attraction Ticket: $13
  • Discover Stunning Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Private Ring Craft Experience in Nagasaki: $23
  • Experience farming (rice cultivation) in terraced rice paddies: $38
  • Private Fishing and Dining Experience in Ojika Japan: $45
  • Traditional Kimono Experience in Nagasaki: $55
  • Nagasaki Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $55
  • Terraced Rice Paddy Restaurant and Rural Experience: $61
  • Finding Local Cats and Hidden Alleys of Nagasaki Walking Tour: $62
  • Mochitsuki Rice Cake Making Experience in Ojika Island: $78
  • Nagasaki Gyoza&Soy Sauce Ramen Culinary Experience: $83

Typical Entertainment Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    $124
  • Surf Lesson
    $43

Tours and Activities in Byron Bay

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Byron Bay are as follows:

  • Tandem Skydive Experience : $288
  • Beyond Byron Hinterland Tour: $147
  • Brisbane: Byron Bay Day Tour - Lighthouse Sunset & The Farm: $125
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $50
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $50
  • Byron Bay Dolphin Tour - Ocean Safari: $64
  • Byron Bay Half-Day Tour: $65
  • Byron Bay Lighthouse Aboriginal Tour: $65
  • Byron Bay Lighthouse Aboriginal Tour: $67
  • Byron Bay Private Bike Tour : $50
  • Byron Bay Wild Koala Tour: $85
  • Byron Bay and Burleigh Heads Private Tour from Brisbane: $959

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagasaki $11
    Byron Bay $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Byron Bay

Also in Byron Bay, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour: $99
  • Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session : $104
  • Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch: $136
  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour: $138


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Byron Bay. When comparing the sizes of Nagasaki and Byron Bay, 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 Nagasaki or Byron Bay?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Byron Bay. Many visitors come to Nagasaki in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nagasaki is generally a little warmer than Byron Bayin January. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 27°C (81°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite rainy in Byron Bay. Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in July than Byron Bayin January. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nagasaki 27°C (81°F) 
    Byron Bay 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

Both Byron Bay and Nagasaki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nagasaki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Byron Bay because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nagasaki is around the same temperature as Byron Bay in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Byron Bay. It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. In October, Nagasaki usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin April. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nagasaki 20°C (67°F) 
    Byron Bay 20°C (69°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay in the Winter?

Both Byron Bay and Nagasaki during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

In the winter, Nagasaki is much colder than Byron Bay. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagasaki in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 14°C (58°F)in July.

Nagasaki usually gets more rain in January than Byron Bayin July. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nagasaki 7°C (44°F) 
    Byron Bay 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Byron Bay in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagasaki and Byron Bay. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Nagasaki is generally cooler than Byron Bayin October. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 16°C (60°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Byron Bayin October. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nagasaki 16°C (60°F) 
    Byron Bay 19°C (67°F)

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Nagasaki

Nagasaki Byron Bay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 175 mm (6.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 193 mm (7.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 328 mm (12.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 334 mm (13.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 191 mm (7.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 32 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 9°C (48°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)


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