A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nara vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nara or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Nara or Christchurch? 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.

Nara

Nara is a traditional, tranquil, and natural city. Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nara travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. Christchurch is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Christchurch travel costs.

Nara and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nara or Christchurch?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Christchurch than Nara, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Christchurch is better known for its food and beaches, while Nara is more popular for its historical sights. Nara is well known for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Also, Christchurch is famous for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Nara different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nara or Christchurch?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Nara and Christchurch.

Nara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Is the Food Better in Nara or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Christchurch is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Christchurch. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Nara and Christchurch.

Nara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Christchurch has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is notable for the beach. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Christchurch is considered a top beach destination. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a popular place for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Nara to see the old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Nara and Christchurch both have high quality trails.

Nara is a popular spot for hiking. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Christchurch?

Both Nara and Christchurch are high quality shopping destinations.

Nara is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Nara or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Nara and Christchurch are somewhat similar when it comes to the notable scenery.

Nara is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is filled with green space, parks, and natural areas. You'll find deer roaming freely and tranquil lawns where you can relax.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Families?

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Christchurch is a very family-friendly destination. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nara. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Nara and Christchurch make for a high quality place to visit.

Nara is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Christchurch makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is notable for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Christchurch is a great city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is notable for students. However, Nara is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Nara is not popular with students.

Is Nara or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nara is well known for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Nara has some very good public transit options. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Nara or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Nara and Christchurch both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nara is a very walkable city. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nara Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Nara?

How long in Nara or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Nara or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nara, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Nara 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 Christchurch.

One day in Nara or Christchurch?

In Nara, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this tranquil city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nara or Christchurch?

Nara is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nara or Christchurch?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Nara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nara or Christchurch?

Nara is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The outdoorsy city of Christchurch offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When comparing the travel costs between Nara and Christchurch, we can see that Christchurch 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 Nara is in Asia and Christchurch 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 Nara Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nara or Christchurch?

Nara has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Nara and Christchurch, 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 Nara or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Nara or Christchurch in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Christchurch. The summer months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

Nara is much warmer than Christchurch in the summer. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. Nara usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during summer. Nara gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nara usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nara or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nara as well as Christchurch. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nara this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nara is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nara in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

In the autumn, Nara often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Christchurchin April. Nara gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun.

Nara receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nara usually gets more rain in October than Christchurchin April. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Christchurch in the Winter?

Both Christchurch and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Christchurch in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nara. In January, Nara is generally cooler than Christchurchin July. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 4°C (40°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Nara usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during winter. Nara gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nara usually receives less rain than Christchurchin July. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nara or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Nara during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nara in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Nara is a little warmer than Christchurch in the spring. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nara often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin October. Nara gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. Nara usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Nara