A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagoya vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nagoya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagoya. Although Nagoya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both popular with visitors, Nagoya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagoya is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also home to the Nagoya Castle.

How is Nagoya different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nagoya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Nagoya has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Nagoya has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagoya is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Nagoya is not a resort destination.


Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Nagoya is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nagoya is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.


Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very popular for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Students?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.


Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Nagoya can get you around 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Nagoya is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable city. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nagoya, and 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Families should spend more time in Nagoya than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagoya than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Nagoya.


  • How many days in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

One day in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Nagoya is a big city destination where you can fill many days. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Nagoya is a under-rated big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the big city destination of Nagoya. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Nagoya is a great place to explore. Most people visit for the food. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Luxury Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $151. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $46
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $92
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $11
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

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

  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya city hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port : $131
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $66
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $59
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya City Hotels to Kanazawa Cruise Port: $144
  • Private Transfer between Chubu Centrair Int'l Airport and Nagoya: $283
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO): $94
  • Private One-Way Transfers to/from Suzuka Circuit: $276
  • Nagoya airport to/from LEGOLAND Private transfer: $187
  • Chubu Itn Airport to/from Nagoya City private transfer: $136
  • Chubu Airport (NGO): Private Transfer to/from Naign Shrine: $768
  • Chubu Airport (NGO) to/from Nagoya Private Transfer: $157

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $46

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $129
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $188
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $202
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $244

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

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

  • Day Tour with Ghibli Park Admission Ticket Round Trip from Nagoya: $174
  • Experience Japanese calligraphy & tea ceremony at a traditional house in Nagoya: $109
  • Explore Holy Mt Horaiji Private Tour: $207
  • Explore-Castles Tour in Samurai City Aichi Using Local Train: $233
  • From Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour: $60
  • From Ise Grand Shrine Day Tour: $60
  • Full-Day Kisoji Nakasendo Trail Tour from Nagoya: $226
  • Ghibli Park Ticket and Accommodation 2 Days Package (No Guide): $179
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Tokugawa Museum and Garden: $142
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Nagoya Castle & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $118
  • Guided Half-day Tour(AM) to Noritake Garden & Toyota Commemorative Museum: $110
  • Guided Half-day Tour(PM) to Nagoya Castle and Modern Technology at SCMAGLEV: $142

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $15
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $233
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $110
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $146
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $66
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $69
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $65
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $146

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $12
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11

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


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nagoya Expensive? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.