A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Tokyo vs. Atami for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Atami?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Atami? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Atami

Atami is a authentic, overlooked, and nostalgic town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Atami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Atami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Atami are both popular with visitors, Tokyo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Atami is known for its beaches. Tokyo is more touristy than Atami and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Atami is popular for its onsen (hot springs) and sandy beaches.

How is Tokyo different from Atami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tokyo or Atami?

Tokyo is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tokyo are world-renowned. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Atami. The onsen, or hot springs, have historically been a big draw to this town. Places to experience them include Oedo Onsen Monogatari Atami, Otsuki Hotel Wafukan, and Myoraku-Yu. Other sights around town include Kaminiya Shrine and the MOA Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Atami? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atami area. You'll find an authentic Japanese dining experience here, with a lot of seafood due to the city's coastal location. Popular dishes include sushi, dried fish, and fish boiled in broth.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Atami has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town was once a place to escape the city and enjoy a fun night out, but these days it's a bit quieter and has more of a nostalgic vibe. Head to Yushima Yugijo Yushima Amusement Center for some of the best nightlife in town.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Music?

Tokyo is renowned for its live music scene. However, Atami is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Atami is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Beaches?

Atami is a popular place for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Atami is a good option for a beach vacation. The most popular beach in the city is Atami Sun Beach, which is right in town. It's a place to relax in the sun, and there are sometimes fireworks throughout the year.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Atami?

Tokyo is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Many visitors go to Atami to go shopping. You'll find a couple of retro shopping streets in town such as Atami Ekimae Shopping Street, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Heiwadori Shopping Street. There are arcades and food stalls where you can sample local dishes.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Families?

Tokyo is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Atami. The city is a hot springs area, but you can also head to the nearby beaches and other family-friendly activities.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Atami is a good city for couples to visit. This is a beach and hot springs resort area, and in historic times it was a honeymoon destination. Today you'll find beaches, hot springs, shopping, and museums to explore, but most visitors use it as a base to explore the nearby areas, as the town itself doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Atami are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Atami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a huge number of hostels in the area, and backpackers often skip over this town, prices aren't particularly high so you should be able to find something affordable.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Students?

Tokyo is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Atami is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Atami is not popular with students.

Is Tokyo or Atami Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Tokyo has a great public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

You'll find some public transit in Atami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses, such as the YuYu Bus, which has two routes and passes by many of the town's attractions.

Is Tokyo or Atami a more walkable city?

Tokyo is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Atami is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Atami is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Atami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atami or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Atami?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Atami 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Atami?

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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 Atami, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nostalgic destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tokyo or Atami?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atami. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Tokyo or Atami?

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Atami is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Atami. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Atami?

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the nostalgic destination of Atami. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Atami, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Atami much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atami would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atami 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Atami.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Atami?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Atami. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Atami, 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 Tokyo or Atami?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tokyo or Atami in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Atami. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Atami for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Atami. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Atami fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Atami during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 140 hours of full sun in the summer.

Atami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Atami. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Atami receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Atami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Atami. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Atami because of the shopping scene.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Atami in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Atami fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atami. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 130 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atami. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Atami. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Atami receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Atami in the Winter?

Both Atami and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atami this time of year.

In the winter, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Atami. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Atami averages at about 5°C (42°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Atami during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Atami receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Atami. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Atami receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Atami in the Spring?

Both Atami and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atami for the beaches.

In April, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Atami. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Atami fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atami. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atami receives 161 hours of full sun.

Atami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets less rain in April than Atami. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Atami receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atami and Tokyo