A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nagasaki vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? 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 welcoming, interesting, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a natural, beautiful, and peaceful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Nagasaki and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nagasaki than Chichibu-Tama-Kai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nagasaki is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nagasaki is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. Also, Nagasaki is famous for the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Nagasaki different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagasaki is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagasaki is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nagasaki. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Nagasaki for the nightlife scene. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagasaki is a city with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nagasaki. 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nagasaki. 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.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagasaki and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagasaki. There are a number of hostels in the city, but you really should make reservations in advance as they tend to fill up.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagasaki is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Nagasaki is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nagasaki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable destination. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Nagasaki is somewhat walkable. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagasaki Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nagasaki than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagasaki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagasaki than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Nagasaki.

One day in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Nagasaki, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

The beautiful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and nightlife around the interesting city of Nagasaki, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming destination of Nagasaki. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nagasaki is a popular choice for travelers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagasaki and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors come to Nagasaki in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nagasaki is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nagasaki in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagasaki gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nagasaki is generally a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 20°C (67°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagasaki usually gets less rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagasaki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter. Nagasaki is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nagasaki or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagasaki during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nagasaki is a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nagasaki in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nagasaki