A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagoya vs. Picton for Food, Families, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nagoya or Picton?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Picton? 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.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a often overlooked, under-the-radar, and under-rated city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Picton

Picton is a quaint, relaxing, and picturesque town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nagoya and Picton: 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 for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Picton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nagoya. Although Nagoya and Picton are popular destinations, Nagoya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nagoya is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Picton attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Picton is more touristy than Nagoya and is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails. Nagoya is famous for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also well known for the Nagoya Castle.

How is Nagoya different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagoya or Picton?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagoya. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.


Is the Food Better in Nagoya or Picton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Nagoya, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Picton. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Nagoya offers plenty to do in the evening. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Beaches?

Nagoya
Picton

Picton is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Nagoya is not a beach destination.


Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Hiking?

Nagoya
Picton

Picton is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Picton?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nagoya. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Families?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Nagoya is very family-friendly. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Picton is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.


Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Picton

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

Picton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Picton

Picton is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Students?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is a good destination for students. However, Picton is not popular with students.

Nagoya is a good city to visit for students. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Picton is not popular with students.


Is Nagoya or Picton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nagoya can get you to most places easily. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Nagoya or Picton a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Picton

Nagoya and Picton are superb when it comes to walkability.

Nagoya is a very walkable destination. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? and Is Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Picton?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nagoya or Picton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Picton 1-2

One day in Nagoya or Picton?

Nagoya is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Picton. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Nagoya or Picton?

Nagoya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

Picton 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 Nagoya or Picton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagoya. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Picton. 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 Nagoya or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated big city of Nagoya. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Picton. This town 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 Luxury Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Picton or Nagoya?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagoya is $89, while the average daily cost in Picton is $87. 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 Nagoya and Picton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $46
    Picton $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $92
    Picton $74
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Picton

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Picton? 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 Nagoya


Hotels in Picton


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: Nagoya Hotel Prices and Picton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $11
    Picton -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

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

  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $59
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $66
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $94
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya city hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port : $131
  • Chubu Itn Airport to/from Nagoya City private transfer: $136
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port: $144
  • Chubu Airport (NGO) to/from Nagoya Private Transfer: $157
  • Nagoya airport to/from LEGOLAND Private transfer: $187
  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit: $276
  • Private Transfer between Chubu Centrair Int'l Airport and Nagoya: $283
  • Chubu Airport (NGO) to/from Kyoto Private Transfer: $441

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Picton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Picton:

  • Private Transfer from Picton Port to Blenheim Airport (BHE): $46
  • Private Transfer from Picton Cruise Port to Blenheim City Hotels: $38
  • Private Transfer from Blenheim city hotels to Picton Cruise Port: $38
  • Private Transfer from Blenheim Airport (BHE) to Picton Port: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Picton?

Prices for flights to both Picton and Nagoya 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
    Nagoya $27
    Picton $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

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

  • Grandma’s Traditional Cooking Class: $65
  • Nagoya Special Food Tour: $66
  • Market Tour and Authentic Nagoya Cuisine Cooking Class With a Local in Her Home: $92
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $174

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Picton $109

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

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

  • Shirakawa-go from Nagoya One Day Bus ticket Oneway/Roundway: $22
  • Shirakawa-go From Nagoya One day Bus Self-guided Tour: $23
  • Hida Takayama from Nagoya Bus ticket Oneway/Raundway: $25
  • Shirakawa-go from nagoya 1D Bus ticket with Hida Beef Lunch: $49
  • Tie-Dye Activity and Traditional Town Walking Tour in NAGOYA: $52
  • From Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $60
  • From Ise Grand Shrine Day Tour: $60
  • Private Tea Ceremony Experience in a Shopping Arcade Tea Room: $65
  • Private Tour to Famous Places in Nagoya: $71
  • Customized Private Tour: $72
  • Mitsui Outlet Park, Light-Up Festival, & Onsen Tour: $76
  • Hida Takayama & World Heritage Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $81

Tours and Activities in Picton

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

  • 1-Day Cruise in Queen Charlotte Track & Kupes Trail Walk: $118
  • 2 hour Dolphin Viewing Eco-Tour from Picton: $91
  • 3.5 Hour Marlborough Sounds Delivery Cruise: $67
  • Bays and Bush Scenic Tour: $97
  • Bird Watching and Dolphin Eco-Tour from Picton: $91
  • CRUISE SHIP DAY Hop on Hop off Yealands & Marlborough tour: $121
  • Captain Cook and Dolphin Cruise: $90
  • Cruise Excursion - Wines of Marlborough Tour: $103
  • Cruise Ship Day - Marlborough: $60
  • Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge: $82
  • Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort: $81
  • Early Bird Eco Cruise: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $12
    Picton $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nagoya:

  • Pub Crawl in Nagoya: $38
  • Restaurant and Bar Crawl in Nagoya Japan: $40

Sample the Local Flavors in Picton

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Picton:

  • Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour (full day) in the Marlborough Region.: $37
  • Self-Guided Wine Tours by Bike with Steve & Jo in Marlborough : $40
  • Marlborough: Hop On Hop Off Wine, Brewery, and Wonders Tour: $53
  • Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Marlborough: $54
  • Marlborough Afternoon Wine Tour with Tastings: $70
  • Half-Day Wine Tour from Blenheim: $87
  • Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton: $88
  • Discover Marlborough Wine - Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour : $90
  • Morning Guided with Afternoon Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour: $91
  • Marlborough Discovery Sampler Wine Tour - 1/2Day Blenheim: $97
  • Taste the Valley Wine Tour in Marlborough with Wine Tasting: $100
  • Half-Day Marlborough Wine Tour & Beer Tour : $109


When comparing the travel costs between Nagoya and Picton, we can see that Nagoya is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Nagoya is in Asia and Picton is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Nagoya or Picton?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 730 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Nagoya and Picton, 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 Nagoya or Picton?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Picton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nagoya as well as Picton. Most visitors come to Nagoya for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nagoya is a little warmer than Picton in the summer. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagoya usually gets more rain in July than Pictonin January. Nagoya gets 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nagoya 27°C (80°F) 
    Picton 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Picton in the Autumn?

Both Picton and Nagoya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

In the autumn, Nagoya is a little warmer than Picton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nagoya in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Picton averages at about 15°C (58°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. In October, Nagoya usually receives more rain than Pictonin April. Nagoya gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nagoya 18°C (64°F) 
    Picton 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Nagoya during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nagoya in the winter. In January, Nagoya is generally much colder than Pictonin July. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 4°C (40°F), and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Picton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nagoya usually gets less rain in January than Pictonin July. Nagoya gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nagoya 4°C (40°F) 
    Picton 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nagoya or Picton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagoya and Picton. Many travelers come to Nagoya for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Picton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

Nagoya is a little warmer than Picton in the spring. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nagoya usually receives more rain than Pictonin October. Nagoya gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nagoya 14°C (58°F) 
    Picton 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Picton and Nagoya

Nagoya Picton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 152 mm (6 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 213 mm (8.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 204 mm (8 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)