A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nara vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Nara or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Nara or Rotorua? 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 historic, cultural, and traditional city. Nara offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Nara travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a diverse, cultural, and natural town. The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rotorua travel costs.

Nara and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nara or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nara than Rotorua, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Nara is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Rotorua is known for its food and impressive beauty. Rotorua is more touristy than Nara and is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. Nara is popular for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. It is also home to Nara Park.

How is Nara different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Nara and Rotorua.

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 Rotorua specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Rotorua 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 Rotorua. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

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 Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

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

Nara has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Nara or Rotorua Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Nara has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Is Nara or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Nara and Rotorua both have excellent 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 Rotorua. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Nara or Rotorua?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Nara or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Rotorua is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Rotorua is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Nara offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is filled with green space, parks, and natural areas. You'll find deer roaming freely and tranquil lawns where you can relax.

Is Nara or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua is a very family-friendly destination. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua 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.

Rotorua makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nara. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Nara or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Nara?

How long in Nara or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nara and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Rotorua than in Nara. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nara, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

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

One day in Nara or Rotorua?

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Rotorua. 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 Rotorua?

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.

Rotorua is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Rotorua?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the world-renowned destination of Rotorua. This town 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 Rotorua?

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.

The world-renowned town of Rotorua 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 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Nara and Rotorua, we can see that Rotorua 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 Rotorua 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 Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nara or Rotorua?

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

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

Both Rotorua and Nara during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nara in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nara is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nara in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. Nara usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Nara gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nara and Rotorua. Most visitors come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nara is generally around the same temperature as Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Nara average around 17°C (63°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nara usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Nara gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nara or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nara as well as Rotorua. The winter months attract visitors to Nara because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

The weather in Nara can be very cold. Nara is much colder than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Nara averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

Nara usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Nara gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nara or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Nara are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Nara this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nara is cooler than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nara in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Nara. In April, Nara usually receives more rain than Rotoruain October. Nara gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Nara