A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nikko vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Hiking, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 cultural, tranquil, and relaxing town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums.

Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Fuji
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nikko than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nikko is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more popular for its hiking. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Also, Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is well known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

How is Nikko different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.


Is the Food Better in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nikko has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is mediocre for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for its Old Town?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.

Nikko offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nikko has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Both Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are excellent 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very kid-friendly town. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.


Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Nikko makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

For backpackers, both Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are excellent places to visit.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great town to visit for backpackers. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its public transit.

Nikko offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.


Is Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Nikko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Nikko is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In our opinion, Nikko has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nikko than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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.


  • How many days in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nikko 1-4 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 2-4

One day in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this dramatic 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

You'll find museums around the dramatic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.


Which place is cheaper, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Nikko?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nikko is $83, while the average daily cost in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is $89. 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 Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nikko $47
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nikko $94
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? 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 Nikko


Hotels in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park


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: Nikko Hotel Prices and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nikko -
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nikko

Also for Nikko, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Narita Airport Private Departure Transfer: $266
  • Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Haneda Airport Departure Private Transfer: $266

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hakone Resorts to Tokyo Narita Airport Departure Transfer: $245
  • Hakone Resorts to Tokyo Haneda Airport Private Departure Transfer: $157

Is it cheaper to fly into Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Nikko 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
    Nikko $31
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nikko $22
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $12

Tours and Activities in Nikko

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nikko.

  • Nikko Custom Full Day Tour: $236
  • Nikko Custom Half Day Tour: $149
  • Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $142
  • Visit the Unexplored Regions of Lake Chuzenji--Scenic Trekking and Rafting Tour: $79
  • World Heritage Nikko Walking Tour - Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi: $61

Tours and Activities in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

  • Custom Private Tour in Hakone with Optional Hot Springs Experience: $300
  • Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $27
  • Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $162
  • Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $189
  • Hakone Full-Day Private Tour : $257
  • Hakone Onsen Experience, Lake Ashi, Open-Air Museum Tour: $236
  • Hakone for Children to Enjoy! Japanese Crafts Experience: $182
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone hotels to Grandberry Park: $136
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Gotemba Premium Outlets: $136
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama: $158
  • Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Hakone: $135
  • Tour around Mount Fuji group from 2 people ¥32,000: $216

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nikko $15
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $8.49


When comparing the travel costs between Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Fuji-Hakone-Izu 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nikko Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nikko is generally around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 25°C (77°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nikko 25°C (77°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nikko 16°C (61°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Most visitors come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the museums and the cuisine.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nikko is much colder than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nikko in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nikko 3°C (37°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year.

In April, Nikko is generally cooler than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 13°C (55°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nikko 13°C (55°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Nikko

Nikko Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 26 mm (1 in) 5°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 206 mm (8.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 26°C (78°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 195 mm (7.7 in) 27°C (80°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 201 mm (7.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 209 mm (8.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 32 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)


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