A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Nikko vs. Matsue for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nikko or Matsue?

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 Matsue 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 peaceful, natural, and rural town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Matsue

Matsue is a quiet, peaceful, and pretty town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Nikko and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Matsue?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Matsue are popular destinations, Nikko has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nikko is very popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Matsue attracts visitors for its nightlife. 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. Matsue is famous for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere.

How is Nikko different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

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

Both Nikko and Matsue 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 Matsue. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Is Nikko or Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Matsue is adequate for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

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 Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Nikko offers plenty to see. 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.

Matsue has an old town worth visiting. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Is Nikko or Matsue Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nikko. 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.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Matsue?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nikko and Matsue 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.

Matsue offers some nice shopping areas. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Nikko or Matsue Better for Families?

Nikko is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Nikko or Matsue Better for Couples?

Nikko is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Matsue is a good town for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

Is Nikko or Matsue Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

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

Nikko and Matsue both offer great public transit to get you around.

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.

The public transit in Matsue can get you around easily. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

Is Nikko or Matsue a more walkable city?

Nikko and Matsue 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.

Matsue is a very walkable town. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Matsue?

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

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

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 Matsue, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. 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 Matsue?

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 Matsue. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Matsue?

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.

Matsue is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Matsue. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Nikko or Matsue?

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 peaceful destination of Matsue. 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 Matsue, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. And not only is Matsue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Matsue would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Matsue 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 Matsue.

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Matsue?

Matsue has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Matsue, 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 Matsue?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nikko or Matsue in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Matsue. The summer months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

In the summer, Nikko is around the same temperature as Matsue. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Matsue averages at about 25°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Matsue. In the summer, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Matsue. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nikko usually gets less rain in July than Matsue. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Matsue in the Autumn?

Both Matsue and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Matsue for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nikko is generally around the same temperature as Matsue. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Nikko usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue during autumn. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Nikko. In October, Nikko usually receives less rain than Matsue. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nikko or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue and Nikko during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Matsue in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Matsue can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. Nikko is much colder than Matsue in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. In the winter, Nikko often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nikko usually gets less rain in January than Matsue. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Matsue in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Matsue. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Matsue for the natural beauty during these months.

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

Nikko usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue during spring. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Nikko usually receives less rain than Matsue. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Nikko