A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nikko vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also home to the Toshogu Shrine. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Nikko different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nikko. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Nikko is mediocre for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Nikko The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are destinations which offer great hiking.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nikko is a town with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Both Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are great to visit with kids.

Nikko is a very family-friendly destination. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly town. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

Nikko is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Nikko is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are great when it comes to walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable town. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Nikko than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nikko that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Nikko.

One day in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, many people enjoy the that this relaxing destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Nikko is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find around the natural destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nikko Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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 Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nikko is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nikko in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In January, Nikko is generally much colder than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 3°C (37°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Nikko usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty during these months.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Nikko