A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Fiordland National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

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 Fiordland National Park 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 relaxing, peaceful, and natural town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a breathtaking, world famous, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come to Fiordland National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Fiordland National Park travel costs.

Nikko and Fiordland National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Fiordland National Park are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Fiordland National Park is known for its hiking. Nikko is popular 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. Fiordland National Park is popular for its world renowned hiking trails and stunning natural environments.

How is Nikko different from Fiordland National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fiordland National Park 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 Fiordland National Park?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Fiordland National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Fiordland National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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 Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is a town that serves as the basecamp for the park, and there are a range of restaurants and cafes there. Once you're in the park the dining options are limited, so it's best to come prepared with your own food supplies.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Nikko or Fiordland National Park offer decent 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.

People don't go to Fiordland National Park for the nightlife. There are few amenities in the park, so bring your own drinks and supplies.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Fiordland National Park does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Nikko is revered around the world. 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.

Fiordland National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for Hiking?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Around Fiordland National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park has world class hiking, and this is the main activity for most visitors. There are three main trails in the park, as well as many shorter hikes that you can do. Milford Track is probably the most famous hike, and it is often considered one of the best hikes in the world. Routeburn Track is a multi-day trek that passes through a variety of environments and landscapes. Other popular trails include Kepler Track, Hollyford Track, and Dusky Track.

Nikko is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

Nikko is very good for shopping. However, Fiordland National Park 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.

Fiordland National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park More Beautiful?

Nikko and Fiordland National Park both are comparable with their amazing scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

You'll find world class beauty in Fiordland National Park as well. This is one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. It has striking mountains, dramatic fjords, and pristine beech forests.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for Families?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Fiordland National Park is an extremely popular national park to visit for families. It's the largest national park in New Zealand, and it makes a great playground for the whole family. It's the perfect place to go for a hike or learn about the natural world. There are dolphins and seals, waterfalls, and glowworm caves. There are also fun adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for Couples?

Both Nikko and Fiordland National Park are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Fiordland National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who love the great outdoors will be in heaven in this stunning national park. There's gorgeous scenery, romantic boat trips, and world class hikes that are not to be missed.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Fiordland National Park. As the largest national park in New Zealand, this is a world class backpackers destination and it is filled with amazing multi-day treks and once in a lifetime experiences.

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

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

Nikko is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors to Nikko can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fiordland National Park. Public transit is basically nonexistent in the park and there are few roads as well. Even so, having your own car is important as it gives you the flexibility to reach the sections that you want to visit.

Is Nikko or Fiordland National Park a more walkable city?

Nikko is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Fiordland National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of 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.

Fiordland National Park is generally not very walkable. There are trails throughout the park and it's possible to access it on foot via Routeburn Track from Mt. Aspiring National Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Fiordland National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fiordland National Park or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

Nikko and Fiordland National Park both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fiordland National Park than Nikko 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 3-6 days is enough time in Fiordland National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Fiordland National Park. 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 Fiordland National Park 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 Fiordland National Park?

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this world famous destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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 Fiordland National Park?

Nikko is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fiordland National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

Nikko is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Fiordland National Park is a fun place to experience. In Fiordland National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Nikko or Fiordland National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Most people head to the area for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Fiordland National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Eco Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Nikko and Fiordland National Park, we can see that Fiordland National Park 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 Nikko is in Asia and Fiordland National Park 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 Nikko Expensive? and Is Fiordland National Park Expensive?.