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

Should you visit Nikko or Paihia?

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 Paihia 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 natural, rural, and historic town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Paihia

Paihia is a beautiful, relaxing, and fun-filled coastal town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Paihia travel costs.

Nikko and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Paihia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paihia. Although Nikko and Paihia are popular destinations, Paihia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paihia is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Paihia is more touristy than Nikko and is known for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. It is also well known for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Nikko different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Paihia. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

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

Both Nikko and Paihia offer a number of very good 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 Paihia. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

Paihia is a coastal 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 Paihia has a few options to choose from. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

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 Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paihia is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Paihia is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Paihia is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Paihia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Paihia does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Paihia are destinations which offer very good 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.

Paihia is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Paihia?

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

Paihia offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Is Nikko or Paihia More Beautiful?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Paihia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Paihia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia 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.

Paihia is an extremely popular coastal town to visit for families. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

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 Paihia Better for Couples?

Both Nikko and Paihia are fantastic 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.

Paihia is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Is Nikko or Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nikko and Paihia are very good places to visit.

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

Paihia is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

Is Nikko or Paihia 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. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Paihia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Is Nikko or Paihia a more walkable city?

Nikko is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable town. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Paihia?

In either Nikko or Paihia, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paihia than Nikko because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 3-5 days is enough time in Paihia.

Families should spend more time in Paihia than Nikko. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paihia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Paihia. 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 Paihia 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 Paihia?

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 Paihia, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this fun-filled destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal 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 Paihia?

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 Paihia. 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 Paihia?

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.

Paihia is a fun place to experience. In Paihia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Nikko or Paihia?

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 museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Paihia. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Nikko and Paihia, we can see that Nikko 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 Paihia 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 Paihia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Paihia?

Nikko has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Paihia, 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.