A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Okinawa vs. Arrowtown for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Okinawa and Arrowtown. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic, charming, and quaint town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Okinawa and Arrowtown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Okinawa than Arrowtown, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Okinawa is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Arrowtown is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Okinawa is well known for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. Also, Okinawa is famous for the Kerama Islands. Arrowtown is well known for its gold rush history, impressive ski slopes, and famous hikes.

How is Okinawa different from Arrowtown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arrowtown and Okinawa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Skiing?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Okinawa is not a skiing destination.

Arrowtown is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. In the area you'll find amazing skiing that ranges from professional level to family-friendly.

Okinawa is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Okinawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Arrowtown offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town feels likes a living museum with its historic sights. There's also the Lakes District Museum in town that you can visit.

Is the Food Better in Okinawa or Arrowtown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Okinawa and Arrowtown offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Okinawa is an experience not to be missed. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arrowtown. For such a small town, there's a surprising number of great restaurants with award winning chefs. You'll find quaint cafes, traditional eateries, and casual restaurants where you can sample the local dishes.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Okinawa has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Arrowtown has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. For such a small town, there's a surprisingly bustling nightlife scene with casual pubs and waterfront bars.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arrowtown is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Okinawa. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Arrowtown is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arrowtown is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa is not to be missed. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Arrowtown is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is terrific for its beaches. However, Arrowtown is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Okinawa is a very popular vacation destination. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Arrowtown is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for its Old Town?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arrowtown. This is a quirky and charming historic mining town that has many cottages and historic buildings. Many places have been restored to maintain their original character.

Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Okinawa and Arrowtown, and they are first-rate.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

People visit Arrowtown specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Many people use this town as a jumping off point for some of the world's most iconic hikes. You can explore Lord of the Rings country or do one of fifteen different listed walks in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Arrowtown. Shopping is an experience in town. Head to Buckingham Street, which is the main street in town. You can wander through a wild west setting with local vendors and quirky galleries.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Okinawa. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Families?

Okinawa is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is one of the most popular family destinations. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Arrowtown is a very kid-friendly archipelago. Kids will enjoy the old world charm as much as adults. There's gold panning, bike trails, and even a historic Chinese village. During the winter there are snow sports and during the summer there are outdoor activities that take advantage of the nice weather.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Couples?

Okinawa is terrific for romance. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Okinawa has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Couples visit Arrowtown frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming atmosphere and beautiful walks make this a great weekend destination for couples. You can take a stroll on the Arrow River Walkway or grab a meal at a quaint cafe followed by ice cream at a classic ice cream parlor.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arrowtown is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Arrowtown is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in town and backpackers love the frequent festivals and activities that the town hosts.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Okinawa and Arrowtown offer notable public transit options.

Okinawa has a few public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Arrowtown has some public transit options. There are public buses throughout the region.

Is Okinawa or Arrowtown a more walkable city?

Arrowtown is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Arrowtown is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are fun to explore on foot.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable archipelago. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Arrowtown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arrowtown or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Okinawa or Arrowtown to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Okinawa than Arrowtown because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arrowtown.

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

Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Arrowtown. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arrowtown than Okinawa 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 Arrowtown.

One day in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

You'll find nightlife and food around the archipelago of Okinawa. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Arrowtown 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 hiking. 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.

A weekend in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the serene destination of Okinawa. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Arrowtown 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 hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arrowtown has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the lush archipelago of Okinawa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

Arrowtown 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.

A week in Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Okinawa is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Okinawa, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arrowtown. Since Arrowtown is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Okinawa and Arrowtown, we can see that Arrowtown 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 Okinawa is in Asia and Arrowtown 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 Okinawa Expensive? and Is Arrowtown Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Arrowtown?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Arrowtown. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Arrowtown, 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.