A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sendai vs. Torquay for Beaches, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Sendai or Torquay?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sendai or Torquay, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sendai

Sendai is a vibrant, cosmopolitan, and lively city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sendai travel costs.

Torquay

Torquay is a thriving, outdoorsy, and trendy surf town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Torquay is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Torquay travel costs.

Sendai and Torquay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sendai or Torquay?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sendai than Torquay, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sendai is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Torquay is more popular for its beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sendai is more touristy than Torquay and is known for the Tanabata Festival, which is the largest of its kind and held every August. Also, Sendai is famous for the statue of Lord Masamune. Torquay is well known for its world renowned surfing scene and its relaxed atmosphere.

How is Sendai different from Torquay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sendai or Torquay?

Sendai is great for its historical sights. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sendai can be an interesting and educational experience. The city grew up as a castle town, and today the castle ruins are a popular tourist destination. A park surrounds the area, Aobayama Park, and while only the stonewalls remain, you can visit the Sendai City Museum in the park as well. Zuihoden Temple is another landmark worth visiting, as is the AER observation terrace.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Torquay. Surfing enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Australian National Surfing Museum, which goes into the sports history and influence on the region.

Is the Food Better in Sendai or Torquay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Sendai and Torquay.

Sendai has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local specialties in the area and if you're an adventurous eater, then this is your place. Many of the dishes are influenced by the city's proximity to the ocean. Make sure you try the harako-meshi (rice with fish eggs), sea squirts, and sashimi. Another local favorite is beef tongue.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Torquay area. You'll find all of the classic beach town options. There are pizza places, international restaurants, and seafood. All kinds of styles are available ranging from modern, upscale, and trendy to casual and affordable.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Nightlife?

Sendai is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Sendai for the nightlife scene. Head to Kokubuncho for the best nightlife scene in the area. This downtown neighborhood is filled with bars, clubs, and karaoke that come alive in the evening. For live music, check out Rensa, which is one of the city's largest live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Torquay. There's a laid back vibe with several great pubs, breweries, and clubs where people hang out.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Beaches?

Torquay is renowned for the beach. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

The beaches in Torquay are among the best in the world. The town is along the Great Ocean Road, and there are a huge number of beaches that are popular for surfing. There are also nudist beaches as well as family-friendly areas. The most convenient beach is Torquay Surf Beach, which is popular with surfers. For calmer water, check out Torquay Front Beach, and for the most iconic surfing beach in the area, visit Bells Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sendai. There are a number of beaches in the area, but for the best options you'll want to head a bit out of town.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Hiking?

Torquay is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sendai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Torquay. There are many coastal walks in the area that range from a few hours to several days. One of the more well known ones is the Surf Coast Walk, which goes on for days and passes by stunning viewpoints and beautiful landscapes.

Sendai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sendai or Torquay?

Sendai is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its shopping areas.

Sendai is well-known for its shopping. You'll find shopping arcades in the downtown area like Ichibancho, which is one of the most popular shopping districts in the city. If you head out of town towards the suburbs, you'll find malls and other outlet stores.

Many visitors go to Torquay to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers with everything from boutiques to major brands.

Is Sendai or Torquay More Beautiful?

Torquay is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Torquay is a beautiful place to visit, too. There's a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and nice coastal walks.

Sendai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Families?

Sendai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sendai is very family-friendly. The city has a number of green spaces that kids will enjoy including parks and playgrounds. There are also kid-focused museums like the Anpanman Children's Museum and the 3M Sendai City Science Museum. If the young ones really need a break from the history, you can check out Yagiyama Beny Land.

Torquay is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people think of great surf when they think of this town, but there are some secluded places like Cozy Corner, which is good for kids. There are also many outdoor activities like walks and snorkeling at Point Danger Marine Sanctuary.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Couples?

Torquay is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Sendai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Torquay makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its amazing beaches, popular surfing, and countless outdoor activities, there's plenty for couples to enjoy around town. You can also head to the vineyards at Bellbrae Estate, check out the local breweries, or take a long walk along the coast.

Sendai is a good city for couples to visit. The city boasts beautiful temples as well as nice natural areas, parks, and gardens. If you have time to get out of town, Okama is a volcanic lake that is one of the most beautiful spots in the region, and well worth the excursion.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sendai and Torquay are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sendai. There are a couple of hostels around the town and many of the activities are free as they involve strolling through parks or wandering down shopping streets.

Torquay is a good city to visit for backpackers. Surfing is the big draw for backpackers to the area. There are a handful of hostels and excellent beaches that make this a great stop off for anyone in the area.

Is Sendai or Torquay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sendai is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Torquay is not as popular, but is still a nice surf town for its public transit.

Sendai has some very good public transit options. There are two subway lines the north-south Namboku Line and the east-west Tozai Line. These lines cross at Sendai Station.

Torquay has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to town from the surrounding areas.

Is Sendai or Torquay a more walkable city?

Sendai and Torquay are superb when it comes to walkability.

Sendai is a very walkable city. There are many parts of the city that are walkable, especially around Sendai Station as well as in the Chuo-dori arcade and the the Kokubuncho neighborhood.

Torquay is a very walkable destination. The Torquay Promenade Walk offers a great place to stroll along the waterfront. You'll pass by view points and many restaurants and cafes.

For even more information, also check out Is Sendai Worth Visiting? and Is Torquay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Torquay or Sendai?

How long in Sendai or Torquay?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sendai and Torquay. In our opinion, Sendai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sendai than Torquay. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sendai than Torquay 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 Sendai.

One day in Sendai or Torquay?

In Sendai, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Torquay. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sendai or Torquay?

In Sendai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sendai has to offer.

Torquay is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

Five days in Sendai or Torquay?

Sendai is a great place to explore. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Torquay. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

A week in Sendai or Torquay?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sendai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sendai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the hip destination of Torquay. This surf 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sendai and Torquay, we can see that Sendai is more expensive. And not only is Torquay much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sendai is in Asia and Torquay is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Torquay would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Torquay and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Sendai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sendai than you might in Torquay.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sendai Expensive? and Is Torquay Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sendai or Torquay?

Sendai has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Torquay. When comparing the sizes of Sendai and Torquay, 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 Sendai or Torquay?

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

Should I visit Sendai or Torquay in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sendai and Torquay. The summer months attract visitors to Sendai because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Torquay this time of year.

Sendai is cooler than Torquay in the summer. The daily temperature in Sendai averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Torquay fluctuates around 26°C (78°F)in January.

Torquay receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sendai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sendai usually receives less rain than Torquayin January. Sendai gets 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sendai or Torquay in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sendai as well as Torquay. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sendai this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Torquay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Sendai is cooler than Torquay. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sendai in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Torquay averages at about 22°C (72°F)in April.

Sendai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sendai usually gets more rain in October than Torquayin April. Sendai gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sendai or Torquay in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sendai. In January, Sendai is generally much colder than Torquayin July. Daily temperatures in Sendai average around 2°C (35°F), and Torquay fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In January, Sendai usually receives less rain than Torquayin July. Sendai gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sendai or Torquay in the Spring?

Both Torquay and Sendai during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sendai in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Torquay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Sendai is much colder than Torquay in the spring. The daily temperature in Sendai averages around 10°C (51°F) in April, and Torquay fluctuates around 21°C (71°F)in October.

Sendai usually gets more rain in April than Torquayin October. Sendai gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Torquay receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Torquay and Sendai