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

Should you visit Nikko or Hobart?

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 Hobart 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 historic, cultural, and tranquil town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Nikko travel costs.

Hobart

Hobart is a fascinating, quaint, and historical city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Hobart travel costs.

Nikko and Hobart: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Nikko or Hobart?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Hobart are popular destinations, Nikko has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nikko is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hobart attracts visitors for its nightlife and shopping. Nikko is famous 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. Hobart is famous for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

How is Nikko different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hobart. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.


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

Nikko
Hobart

Both Nikko and Hobart offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hobart. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

Is Nikko or Hobart Better for Nightlife?

Nikko
Hobart

Hobart is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Hobart has a few options to choose from. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

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 Hobart Better for its Old Town?

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is renowned for its old town. However, Hobart does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Nikko is one of the most recognized in 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.

Hobart does not have a historic old town.


Is Nikko or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Nikko
Hobart

Both Nikko and Hobart 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.

Hobart is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Hobart?

Nikko
Hobart

Hobart is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hobart. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Nikko or Hobart More Beautiful?

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Hobart is not a destination known for its 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.

Hobart is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nikko or Hobart Better for Families?

Nikko
Hobart

Both Nikko and Hobart 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.

Hobart is a very kid-friendly town. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Is Nikko or Hobart Better for Couples?

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Hobart is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

Is Nikko or Hobart Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.


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

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Nikko has some very good public transit options. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Is Nikko or Hobart a more walkable city?

Nikko
Hobart

Nikko and Hobart 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.

Hobart is a very walkable town. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Hobart?

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

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Hobart. 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 Hobart. 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 Hobart 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 Hobart? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nikko 1-4 
    Hobart 2-3

One day in Nikko or Hobart?

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 Hobart, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city 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 Hobart?

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 Hobart. 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 Hobart?

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.

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

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 historical destination of Hobart. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Hobart or Nikko?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nikko is $108, while the average daily cost in Hobart is $156. 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 Hobart in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nikko $48
    Hobart $77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nikko $96
    Hobart $154
Compare Hotels in Nikko and Hobart

Looking for a hotel in Nikko or Hobart? 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 Hobart


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 Hobart Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nikko -
    Hobart $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hobart

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

  • George Town Port to Owen Roberts Airport (GCM) - Departure Private Transfer: $152
  • George Town / 7- Mile Beach area to George Town Port -Departure Private Transfer: $152
  • Grand Cayman Shared Airport Transfer: $40
  • Hobart Airport: Express Bus Transfer to Hobart City: $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Nikko or Hobart?

Prices for flights to both Hobart 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 $55
    Hobart $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nikko $22
    Hobart $23

Tours and Activities in Nikko

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

  • 1 Day Nikko Wonders Tour from Tokyo: $405
  • Bask in the beauty of winter Nikko in this unforgettable ice climbing experience: $116
  • Bike and Hike on Mt Hangetsu with Outdoor Matcha Experience: $83
  • Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura Admission Ticket: $50
  • Hidden Canyoning Adventure in Nikko : $103
  • Nikko – Beautiful Full-Day Personal and Private Tour: $385
  • Nikko Cycling Tour with Local Guide: $268
  • Nikko Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide: $72
  • Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $151
  • Nikko Guided Cycling Tour with a Local Monk: $268
  • Nikko Private Custom Tour with Local Guide: $206
  • Nikko Private Customizable Full Day Tour: $265

Tours and Activities in Hobart

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

  • 2 Day Tasmanian Highlights Tour - Bruny Island & Port Arthur: $204
  • 48 Hour Hobart City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $36
  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Guided Night Tour: $115
  • Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hobart: $82
  • Bruny Island Food, Sightseeing, Guided Lighthouse Tour & Lunch : $177
  • Cruise Ship - Wine Shore Excursion - Hobart: $145
  • From 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour: $293
  • From 5-Day Tasmania West & East Coast Tour: $715
  • From 9-Day Tasmania Circle Tour: $2,634
  • From Bruny Island Nature & Produce Adventure Tour: $109
  • From Day Tour to Maria Island with Bus Connection: $191
  • From Full-Day Bruny Island Tour with Guide: $119

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nikko $15
    Hobart $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Hobart

Also in Hobart, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cascade Brewery Historic Tour: $16
  • Cascade Brewery Experience: $26
  • Signature Wine Tour - Hobart & SE Tasmania: $145
  • Moorilla's Big Day Out at Mona - Wine Tasting and Lunch: $165
  • Tasmania: Private Distillers Reserve Distillery Tour: $224


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nikko and Hobart, we can see that Hobart 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 Hobart 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 Hobart would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hobart 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 Hobart Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nikko or Hobart?

Hobart has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Hobart, 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 Hobart?

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

Both Hobart 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 Hobart this time of year.

In the summer, Nikko is a little warmer than Hobart. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Hobart averages at about 17°C (63°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Hobart. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Hobart during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives more rain than Hobartin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nikko 25°C (77°F) 
    Hobart 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Hobart in the Autumn?

Both Hobart 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 Hobart for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Nikko is generally a little warmer than Hobartin April. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Nikko often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hobartin April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 178 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Hobartin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nikko 16°C (61°F) 
    Hobart 14°C (57°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Hobart in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. Nikko is much colder than Hobart in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Hobart fluctuates around 9°C (47°F)in July.

In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives more sunshine than Hobart during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Hobartin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nikko 3°C (37°F) 
    Hobart 9°C (47°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Hobart in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Hobart. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nikko is around the same temperature as Hobart. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nikko in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Hobart averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hobart. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Hobartin October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 209 hours of full sun.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Hobartin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nikko 13°C (55°F) 
    Hobart 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Hobart and Nikko

Nikko Hobart
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 26 mm (1 in) 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 206 mm (8.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 195 mm (7.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 201 mm (7.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 32 mm (1.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)