A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Darwin for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Nikko or Darwin?

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 Darwin 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 rural, historic, and cultural town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Darwin

Darwin is a local, tropical, and multicultural town. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nikko and Darwin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Darwin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Darwin are popular destinations, Nikko has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nikko is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Darwin attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Nikko is more touristy than Darwin and is popular for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also well known for the Toshogu Shrine. Darwin is famous for its outdoor markets and tropical weather.

How is Nikko different from Darwin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Nikko are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Darwin. You can check out the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, explore the city's Waterfront Precinct, and spend some time at the Darwin Military Museum.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Darwin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Darwin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of local restaurants that serve seafood or local twists on international flavors. Many restaurants offer Barramundi that is prepared in unique ways. You can try the Barramundi Bibimbap or the Crispy Baby Barramundi.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Nightlife?

Darwin is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Darwin has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most bars along Mitchell Street or in the Waterfront Precinct area. There are also some popular nightclubs and music venues in town.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Beaches?

Darwin is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Darwin. Most people don't swim at the beaches because of the saltwater crocodiles and jellyfish. You can hang out in the sand though and Mindil Beach is a favorite spot for locals.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is terrific for its old town. However, Darwin does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Darwin does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Darwin are destinations which offer high quality 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.

Darwin is a popular spot for hiking. In addition to city walks, there are many national parks that make great day trips from town. Litchfield National Park has many hikes as does Mary River National Park. The town is also known as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Darwin?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nikko and Darwin both offer plenty of nice spots.

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

Darwin offers some nice shopping areas. There are shopping malls, art galleries, and trendy boutiques around town.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Families?

Both Nikko and Darwin are high quality 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.

Darwin is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in town and in the surrounding areas. There are wildlife parks and several national parks in the area like Litchfield National Park. For many families, this is a stop off on there way to Kakadu National Park.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Couples?

Nikko is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Darwin is a good town for couples to visit. The beautiful weather means that you can spend most of your time outdoors. Sunset picnics are popular, but for many visitors, it's all about the day trips to nearby parks.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is notable for backpackers. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nikko is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Darwin is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels in town that make this an easy place to spend a night or two for backpackers.

Is Nikko or Darwin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is notable for its public transit. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Darwin has some public transit options. There are public buses around town. There's also a waterfront shuttle.

Is Nikko or Darwin a more walkable city?

Nikko is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Darwin is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Nikko is a very walkable town. 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.

Darwin is a somewhat walkable town. There are biking and walking paths around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Darwin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Darwin or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Darwin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nikko and Darwin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nikko than in Darwin. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-3 days is enough time in Darwin.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Darwin. 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 Darwin. 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 Darwin 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 Darwin?

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Darwin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this multicultural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Nikko or Darwin?

Nikko is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Darwin. 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 Darwin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Don't miss the museums, 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.

Darwin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Darwin. 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 Darwin?

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the tropical destination of Darwin. 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 Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Darwin?

Darwin has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Darwin, 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 Nikko or Darwin?

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

Should I visit Nikko or Darwin in the Summer?

Both Darwin and Nikko during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Darwin because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nikko is cooler than Darwin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (83°F)in January.

In the summer, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Darwinin January. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 173 hours of full sun.

Darwin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets less rain in July than Darwinin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 437 mm (17.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Darwin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Darwin. The autumn months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Darwin this time of year.

In October, Nikko is generally much colder than Darwinin April. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Darwin fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Darwin this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during autumn. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 267 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nikko usually receives more rain than Darwinin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nikko or Darwin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Darwin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Darwin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. Nikko is much colder than Darwin in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Darwin fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Darwin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nikko this time of the year. In the winter, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Darwinin July. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Darwin receives 312 hours of full sun.

Nikko usually gets more rain in January than Darwinin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Darwin in the Spring?

Both Darwin and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Darwin in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Nikko is much colder than Darwin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nikko in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Darwin averages at about 29°C (85°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Darwin. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Darwin during spring. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Darwin receives 291 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. In April, Nikko usually receives more rain than Darwinin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Darwin receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Darwin and Nikko