A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sapporo vs. Katoomba for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sapporo or Katoomba?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sapporo and Katoomba 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.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a park-filled, snowy, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sapporo travel costs.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a breathtaking , stunning, and peaceful town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Katoomba because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Katoomba travel costs.

Sapporo and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Sapporo or Katoomba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sapporo than Katoomba, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Katoomba is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sapporo is well known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park. Katoomba is well known for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains.

How is Sapporo different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Skiing?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Katoomba is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Katoomba is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

Katoomba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

Is the Food Better in Sapporo or Katoomba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.


Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Katoomba is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Around Katoomba visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Katoomba. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba More Beautiful?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Katoomba is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Katoomba because of it's amazing beauty. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Families?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Katoomba is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Katoomba is an extremely popular town to visit for families. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

Sapporo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Couples?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Both Sapporo and Katoomba are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Sapporo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Katoomba is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sapporo
Katoomba

For backpackers, both Sapporo and Katoomba are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.


Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Students?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for students. However, Katoomba is not popular with students.

Many students visit Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Katoomba is not popular with students.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Sapporo. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

Katoomba has some public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Sapporo or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Sapporo
Katoomba

Sapporo is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

Sapporo is very walkable. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Sapporo Worth Visiting? and Is Katoomba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Sapporo?

How long in Sapporo or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Sapporo or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Katoomba due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sapporo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sapporo than Katoomba 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 Sapporo.


  • How many days in Sapporo or Katoomba? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sapporo 2-3 
    Katoomba 2-4

One day in Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Katoomba is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sapporo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Katoomba 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 Katoomba has to offer.

Five days in Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Katoomba 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 Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Katoomba. Since Katoomba is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Katoomba or Sapporo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Sapporo is $132, while the average daily cost in Katoomba is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sapporo and Katoomba in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sapporo $65
    Katoomba $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sapporo $130
    Katoomba $156
Compare Hotels in Sapporo and Katoomba

Looking for a hotel in Sapporo or Katoomba? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sapporo


Hotels in Katoomba


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sapporo Hotel Prices and Katoomba Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sapporo $16
    Katoomba $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sapporo

Also for Sapporo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $93
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo City Hotels to Otaru Cruise Port: $113
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $132
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140
  • Private Departure Transfer : Sapporo City to New Chitose Airport: $237
  • Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo Airport(CTS): $274
  • New Chitose Airport (CTS) Private Transfer: $284

Is it cheaper to fly into Sapporo or Katoomba?

Prices for flights to both Katoomba and Sapporo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sapporo $54
    Katoomba $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

For Sapporo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Host Kanae: $72
  • Japanese Cooking Class in the Heart of Sapporo with Sakura: $72
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local: $82
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $97
  • Hands-on Japanese Home Cooking Class in Sapporo with Noriko: $108
  • Sapporo Night Food Tour: 3 Hidden Restaurants with a Foodie Guide: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sapporo $17
    Katoomba $54

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sapporo.

  • JR Tower Observatory Admission Ticket: $4.33
  • Historical Village of Hokkaido Entry Ticket: $6.76
  • Sapporo TV Tower Admission Ticket: $6.76
  • JR Tower Observation Deck T38 Ticket in Hokkaido: $9.00
  • Sapporo Highlights: Golden Route Morning Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Sapporo Highlights: Golden Route Morning Walking Tour: $31
  • Hokkaido Shrine Tour with Rituals, History & Sweets: $43
  • Beer Museum Tour with Tasting of Local Brews: $49
  • Tour of the Historic Red Brick Government Office: $50
  • Sapporo Afternoon Walking Tour 2h 30mins: $55
  • Sapporo Walking Tour: $61
  • Authentic Nijo Market Seafood Lunch & History Tour: $64

Tours and Activities in Katoomba

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Katoomba are as follows:

  • Blue Mountains Day Tour with Wildlife and Scenic World: $101
  • Army Truck Adventures - 3 Hour Guided Tour: $100
  • Army Truck Adventures - 90 Minute Guided Tour: $66
  • Beauty of the Blue Mountains Private Tour: $851
  • Blue Labyrinth PRIVATE Tour: Sydney Blue Mountains by E-Bike : $251
  • Blue Mountains 1-Hour Trike Tour of Three Sisters: $109
  • Blue Mountains 3 Hour Army Truck Adventures: $98
  • Blue Mountains 90 Minute Army Truck Adventures: $65
  • Blue Mountains Day Tour With Bushwalks, Waterfalls & Featherdale: $126
  • Blue Mountains Day Tour with Scenic World and Wildlife Park Entry: $118
  • Blue Mountains Full Day Guided Tour : $221
  • Blue Mountains Hop On Hop Off Tour: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sapporo $8.26
    Katoomba -

Sample the Local Flavors in Sapporo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sapporo:

  • Sapporo Tour in the Port City of Otaru and Local beer brewery: $174
  • 1-Day Tour The port city of Otaru & Local Brewery: $178


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


Which is Bigger, Sapporo or Katoomba?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Sapporo and Katoomba, 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 Sapporo or Katoomba?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Katoomba is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Sapporo has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Sapporo or Katoomba in the Summer?

Both Katoomba and Sapporo during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sapporo is cooler than Katoomba. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sapporo in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Katoomba averages at about 24°C (74°F)in January.

In Katoomba, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Sapporo often gets less sunshine than Katoombain January. Sapporo gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 236 hours of full sun.

Katoomba gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sapporo usually gets less rain in July than Katoombain January. Sapporo gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Sapporo 21°C (69°F) 
    Katoomba 24°C (74°F)

Should I visit Sapporo or Katoomba in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sapporo and Katoomba. Many travelers come to Sapporo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Katoomba in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sapporo is generally much colder than Katoombain April. Daily temperatures in Sapporo average around 11°C (52°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Sapporo usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during autumn. Sapporo gets 156 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sapporo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Sapporo usually receives more rain than Katoombain April. Sapporo gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Sapporo 11°C (52°F) 
    Katoomba 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Sapporo or Katoomba in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sapporo as well as Katoomba. Many visitors come to Sapporo in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Katoomba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Sapporo can get quite cold in the winter. Sapporo is much colder than Katoomba in the winter. The daily temperature in Sapporo averages around -5°C (24°F) in January, and Katoomba fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. In the winter, Sapporo often gets less sunshine than Katoombain July. Sapporo gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 208 hours of full sun.

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the winter. Sapporo usually gets more rain in January than Katoombain July. Sapporo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Sapporo -5°C (24°F) 
    Katoomba 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Sapporo or Katoomba in the Spring?

Both Katoomba and Sapporo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sapporo for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sapporo is much colder than Katoomba. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sapporo in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Katoomba averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Katoomba. Sapporo usually receives less sunshine than Katoomba during spring. Sapporo gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sapporo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Katoombain October. Sapporo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Sapporo 7°C (44°F) 
    Katoomba 18°C (64°F)

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Sapporo

Sapporo Katoomba
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Mar -0°C (32°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 42 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 4°C (40°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Dec -1°C (30°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)