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

Should you visit Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

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

Should I visit Nagasaki or Rockhampton? 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 authentic, welcoming, and interesting city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Nagasaki travel costs.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a charming, cultural, and natural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rockhampton travel costs.

Nagasaki and Rockhampton: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagasaki than Rockhampton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Nagasaki is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Rockhampton attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Nagasaki is famous for its history, hot spring spas, and local cuisine. It is also well known for the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. Rockhampton is famous for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks.

How is Nagasaki different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Rockhampton and Nagasaki.

Nagasaki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Rockhampton specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.


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

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Foodies will find both Nagasaki and Rockhampton both to be high quality 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, Rockhampton makes for a great culinary experience. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Nagasaki is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Nagasaki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The best areas for nightlife are the Doza-machi and Shianbashi districts. Shinanbashi is filled with narrow alleys and its easy to get lost.

Rockhampton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for the beach. However, Nagasaki is not a beach destination.

Rockhampton is a good option for a beach vacation. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Nagasaki is not a beach destination.


Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Nagasaki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Nagasaki and Rockhampton.

Nagasaki has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Rockhampton is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

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 Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

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

Rockhampton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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 Rockhampton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Nagasaki and Rockhampton are both nice 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.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Nagasaki is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Nagasaki is not popular with students.


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

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Nagasaki is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Rockhampton is lacking in options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nagasaki. The city has four tram lines as well as city buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Nagasaki or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Nagasaki
Rockhampton

Nagasaki and Rockhampton are nice 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.

Rockhampton is somewhat walkable. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Nagasaki?

How long in Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton.


  • How many days in Nagasaki or Rockhampton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagasaki 2-3 
    Rockhampton 2-4

One day in Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Nagasaki. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Rockhampton offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the authentic destination of Nagasaki. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Rockhampton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Rockhampton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

The welcoming city of Nagasaki offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nagasaki. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Rockhampton 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 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 Honeymoon Tours in Australia, and The Best Photography Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton is $208. 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 Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagasaki $49
    Rockhampton $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagasaki $98
    Rockhampton $204
Compare Hotels in Nagasaki and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Nagasaki or Rockhampton? 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 Rockhampton


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 Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagasaki $19
    Rockhampton $19

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 International Airport to Nagasaki City Private Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Nagasaki City to Nagasaki International Airport Private Departure Transfer: $196

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton 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
    Rockhampton $86

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagasaki $23
    Rockhampton $40

Tours and Activities in Nagasaki

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

  • Customizable Full-Day Private Tours in Nagasaki with private car: $300
  • Discover Stunning Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Experience farming (rice cultivation) in terraced rice paddies: $38
  • Finding Local Cats and Hidden Alleys of Nagasaki Walking Tour: $62
  • Full day Private Tour for Shore Excursion in Nagasaki: $206
  • Gunkanjima Digital Museum Attraction Ticket: $13
  • Mochitsuki Rice Cake Making Experience in Ojika Island: $78
  • Must-See Nagasaki With A Local: Private & Personalized Walking Experience: $256
  • Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $151
  • Nagasaki GPS App Walking Tour Mobile Game: $12
  • Nagasaki Gyoza&Soy Sauce Ramen Culinary Experience: $83
  • Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $117

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagasaki $11
    Rockhampton $13


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


Which is Bigger, Nagasaki or Rockhampton?

Nagasaki has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Rockhampton. When comparing the sizes of Nagasaki and Rockhampton, 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 Rockhampton?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton in the Summer?

Both Rockhampton and Nagasaki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nagasaki because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year.

Nagasaki is around the same temperature as Rockhampton in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rockhampton. It's quite rainy in Nagasaki. In July, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin January. Nagasaki gets 334 mm (13.1 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nagasaki 27°C (81°F) 
    Rockhampton 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

Both Rockhampton and Nagasaki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Nagasaki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Nagasaki is cooler than Rockhampton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagasaki in October average around 20°C (67°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagasaki. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Nagasaki gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nagasaki 20°C (67°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Rockhampton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagasaki and Rockhampton. Many travelers come to Nagasaki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Nagasaki is generally much colder than Rockhamptonin July. Daily temperatures in Nagasaki average around 7°C (44°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In January, Nagasaki usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin July. Nagasaki gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nagasaki 7°C (44°F) 
    Rockhampton 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Nagasaki or Rockhampton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nagasaki as well as Rockhampton. Many visitors come to Nagasaki in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Rockhampton for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

Nagasaki is cooler than Rockhampton in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagasaki averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in October.

Nagasaki receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nagasaki usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Nagasaki gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nagasaki 16°C (60°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Nagasaki

Nagasaki Rockhampton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 27°C (80°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 26°C (78°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 175 mm (6.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 193 mm (7.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 328 mm (12.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 334 mm (13.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 187 mm (7.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 25°C (77°F) 191 mm (7.5 in) 20°C (69°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 9°C (48°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 27°C (80°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)