A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nara vs. Okinawa for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Nara or Okinawa?

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

Should I visit Nara or Okinawa? 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 cultural, traditional, and tranquil city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a tropical, lush, and serene archipelago. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nara and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nara or Okinawa?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Okinawa than Nara. While Nara is larger than Okinawa, Okinawa has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Okinawa is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Nara is known for its historical sights and shopping. Okinawa is more touristy than Nara and is known for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Nara is popular for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Nara different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nara
Okinawa

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Nara and Okinawa.

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 Okinawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.


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

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa 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 Okinawa. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

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 Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Nara
Okinawa

Evening events are superb in both Nara and Okinawa.

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.

Okinawa has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa is notable for its resorts. However, Nara is not a resort destination.

Okinawa is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Nara is not a resort destination.


Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Okinawa a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Okinawa. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Nara or Okinawa Better for its Old Town?

Nara
Okinawa

Nara is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

Nara offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Okinawa does not have a historic old town.


Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nara. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Okinawa?

Nara
Okinawa

Nara is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Nara. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Okinawa. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Families?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa 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, Okinawa is a very family-friendly destination. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

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 Okinawa Better for Couples?

Nara
Okinawa

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Okinawa makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Nara or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nara
Okinawa

Both Nara and Okinawa are good destinations for backpackers.

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

Okinawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

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

Nara
Okinawa

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

The public transit in Nara can get you to most places easily. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

Okinawa has some public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.


Is Nara or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Nara
Okinawa

Nara is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

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

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

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

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Nara?

How long in Nara or Okinawa?

Both Nara and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Nara. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nara, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

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

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


  • How many days in Nara or Okinawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nara 1-2 
    Okinawa 3-7

One day in Nara or Okinawa?

In Nara, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Okinawa. 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 Okinawa?

In Nara, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nara has to offer.

Okinawa is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Nara or Okinawa?

Nara is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the lush destination of Okinawa. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nara or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nara. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nara. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lush archipelago of Okinawa. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Cultural Tours in Japan, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Japan, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Okinawa or Nara?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nara is $87, while the average daily cost in Okinawa is $105. 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 Nara and Okinawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nara $53
    Okinawa $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nara $106
    Okinawa $146
Compare Hotels in Nara and Okinawa

Looking for a hotel in Nara or Okinawa? 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 Nara


Hotels in Okinawa


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: Nara Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nara $5.90
    Okinawa $9.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nara

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nara:

  • Kansai Airport (KIX):Private One-Way Transfer to/from Nara: $240

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Okinawa

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Okinawa:

  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $59
  • Naha hotels to Okinawa Naha Airport (ОКА) - Departure Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $66
  • Airport Transfer! Naha Airport (OKA) to Center of Naha: $124
  • Airport Transfer! Center of Naha to Naha Airport (OKA): $125
  • Private One Way Transfer: Naha Airport (OHA) to/from Okinawa : $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Nara or Okinawa?

Prices for flights to both Okinawa and Nara 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
    Nara $29
    Okinawa $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nara

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nara.

  • Eel Fishing and Cooking Experience in Kyoto: $74
  • Full Day Nara E bike Tour and Osaka History Food Tour: $156

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Okinawa

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Okinawa.

  • Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience and Historic Market Tour: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nara $7.90
    Okinawa $14

Tours and Activities in Nara

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

  • Nara Heijyo-Kyo Bike Tour in UNESCO World Heritage Site: $17
  • A completely private tour to meet your favorite tea: $24
  • Nara Craft Tours - local Craft beers tour experience in Nara City: $28
  • All must-sees in 3 hours - Nara Park Classic Tour! From JR Nara!: $44
  • Nara Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $55
  • Eigo Tour - Walk in Nara City: $68
  • Nara - Highlights Bike Tour: $74
  • Nara Half Day Trip Walking Tour: $80
  • Nara World Heritage Todaiji Visit and Naramachi Tour: $81
  • Nara Todaiji Lazy Bird Tour: $90
  • Sake Tasting and Hopping Experience: $93
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara City: $98

Tours and Activities in Okinawa

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

  • North Okinawa Bus Day Tour Manzamo Kouri Island Ocean Expo Park American Village: $36
  • Beautiful sunset kayak tour in Okinawa: $37
  • Mangrove Kayaking Tour: $40
  • Okinawa Hot spot walk and local food & beer tour(All include): $47
  • Jungle River Trek: private tour in Yanbaru, north Okinawa: $51
  • Mangrove Kayak & Sea Fishing Experience in Okinawa: $59
  • Sakaemachi Market Bar Hopping Tour: $60
  • Kayak Mangroves or Coral Reef: private tour in north Okinawa : $61
  • Naha: Full-Day Snorkeling Experience in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa: $64
  • Kerama Islands 1 day snorkeling tour from Okinawa Naha: $68
  • 2-Hour Private Gorilla Go Kart Experience in Okinawa: $68
  • Official Street Go-Kart Tour - Okinawa Shop: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nara $11
    Okinawa $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Okinawa

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

  • Naha Local Pub Crawl: $110


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nara or Okinawa?

Nara has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Okinawa. When comparing the sizes of Nara and Okinawa, 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 Okinawa?

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 Nara or Okinawa in the Summer?

Both Okinawa and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nara for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nara is around the same temperature as Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nara in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

It's quite sunny in Okinawa. Nara usually receives less sunshine than Okinawa during summer. Nara gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Nara. In July, Nara usually receives more rain than Okinawa. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nara 27°C (80°F) 
    Okinawa 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Nara or Okinawa in the Autumn?

Both Okinawa and Nara during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.

In October, Nara is generally cooler than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 17°C (63°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the autumn, Nara often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Nara gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. Nara usually gets less rain in October than Okinawa. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nara 17°C (63°F) 
    Okinawa 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Nara or Okinawa in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Okinawa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nara this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nara in the winter. Nara is much colder than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nara usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during winter. Nara gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Nara usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nara 4°C (40°F) 
    Okinawa 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Nara or Okinawa in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nara as well as Okinawa. Many travelers come to Nara for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Okinawa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nara is much colder than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nara in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In the spring, Nara often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Nara gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Nara receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nara usually gets less rain in April than Okinawa. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nara 14°C (57°F) 
    Okinawa 22°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Nara

Nara Okinawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 127 mm (5 in) 22°C (71°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 128 mm (5.1 in) 24°C (76°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 214 mm (8.4 in) 27°C (80°F) 255 mm (10 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 186 mm (7.3 in) 29°C (84°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 28°C (83°F) 266 mm (10.5 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 28°C (82°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)