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

Should you visit Nikko or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua 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. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Rotorua travel costs.

Nikko and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Rotorua?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nikko than Rotorua, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nikko is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Rotorua is more popular for its nightlife. 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. Rotorua is well known for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Nikko different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Both Nikko and Rotorua 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 Rotorua. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Nikko or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Rotorua is a 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 Rotorua has a few options to choose from. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

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 Rotorua Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Rotorua 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.

Rotorua does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Both Nikko and Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Rotorua?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nikko and Rotorua both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Rotorua offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Nikko or Rotorua More Beautiful?

Nikko is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and 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.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Nikko or Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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.

Rotorua is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

Both Nikko and Rotorua are world-class 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.

Rotorua is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Is Nikko or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nikko. 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 Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Nikko or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Rotorua?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Nikko than Rotorua. 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 Rotorua than Nikko 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 Rotorua.

One day in Nikko or Rotorua?

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Rotorua, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Rotorua?

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Rotorua. 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 Rotorua?

Nikko is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Rotorua. 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 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Rotorua?

Rotorua has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Rotorua. 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 Rotorua this time of year.

In July, Nikko is generally much warmer than Rotoruain January. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 25°C (77°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nikko usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Rotorua. 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 Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Rotorua in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in April.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nikko. In the winter, Nikko is much colder than Rotorua. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nikko in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Rotorua averages at about 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Nikko usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Nikko during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nikko in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotorua for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Nikko is generally much colder than Rotoruain October. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 13°C (55°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Nikko