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

Should you visit Okinawa or Taupo?

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 Taupo. 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 serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. The famous beauty of Okinawa is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Okinawa travel costs.

Taupo

Taupo is a otherworldly, striking, and stunning town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Taupo travel costs.

Okinawa and Taupo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Taupo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Taupo are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Taupo is known for its skiing and small town charm. Okinawa is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Taupo is popular for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

How is Okinawa different from Taupo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Skiing?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for snow skiing. However, Okinawa is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Okinawa is not a skiing destination.

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

Okinawa is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Okinawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Both Okinawa and Taupo offer a number of superb 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 Taupo. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Okinawa know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a great destination for its resorts. However, Taupo is not a resort destination.

Okinawa is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Taupo is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Okinawa a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Taupo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Okinawa. 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.

Taupo is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many visitors go to Taupo for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Taupo?

Both Okinawa and Taupo are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Okinawa to go shopping. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Taupo. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Okinawa or Taupo More Beautiful?

Okinawa is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Okinawa is one of the main draws. The islands are filled with beautiful natural environments that range from white sand beaches to mangrove forests. The water is turquoise and the setting is idyllic for vacationers.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Families?

Both Okinawa and Taupo are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Okinawa is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Taupo is a very family-friendly destination. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Couples?

Okinawa and Taupo both amazing destinations for a couple.

Okinawa is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

Is Okinawa or Taupo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Taupo is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Both Okinawa and Taupo offer good 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.

Taupo has some public transit options. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Okinawa or Taupo a more walkable city?

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

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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 Taupo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taupo or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Taupo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Okinawa and Taupo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Taupo. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Taupo.

Families should spend more time in Okinawa than Taupo. 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 Taupo. 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 Taupo 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 Taupo.

One day in Okinawa or Taupo?

In Okinawa, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This archipelago 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.

In Taupo, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Okinawa or Taupo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. 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.

In Taupo, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 skiing. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taupo has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Taupo?

Okinawa is a fun place to experience. In Okinawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Taupo is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Taupo?

In Okinawa, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this idyllic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Taupo. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When comparing the travel costs between Okinawa and Taupo, we can see that Taupo 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 Taupo 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 Taupo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Okinawa or Taupo?

Okinawa has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Okinawa and Taupo, 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.