A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Austin for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Tokyo or Austin?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Austin? 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 cutting edge, high tech, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Austin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Austin. Tokyo is bigger than Austin, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is better known for its museums, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin is more popular for its hiking. Tokyo is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Tokyo different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin 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 Austin?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tokyo that are not to be missed. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at fantastic restaurants in both Tokyo and Austin.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Austin has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is fantastic in both Tokyo and Austin.

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.

Austin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Music?

Tokyo and Austin are both destinations where visitors can find fantastic live music.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Austin is a world class music destination. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is adequate for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Austin?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Tokyo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Families?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Tokyo or Austin Better for Students?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Tokyo is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Tokyo or Austin a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Austin?

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

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Austin. 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 Austin. 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.

One day in Tokyo or Austin?

Tokyo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Austin, many people enjoy the live music and food that this unconventional destination offers. 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.

A weekend in Tokyo or Austin?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Tokyo or Austin?

Tokyo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. 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, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Austin, we can see that Tokyo 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 Tokyo is in Asia and Austin is in North America, 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 Tokyo Expensive? and Is Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Austin?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Austin, 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 Austin?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tokyo or Austin in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Austin. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tokyo is cooler than Austin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Austin averages at about 87°F (30°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Austin. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Austin. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Tokyo is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Austin during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Austin. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Tokyo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tokyo is much colder than Austin in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Austin. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Austin in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Austin. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In the spring, Tokyo is much colder than Austin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Austin averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Austin during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Austin. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Austin and Tokyo