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

Should you visit Tokyo or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Canberra? 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Canberra?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Canberra, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is known for its hiking. Tokyo is more touristy than Canberra 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. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves.

How is Tokyo different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Canberra 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.

Many visitors head to Canberra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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

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

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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

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

Tokyo is a must-see party destination. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Music?

Tokyo is terrific for its live music scene. However, Canberra 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.

Canberra is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Canberra is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Canberra?

Tokyo is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra 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 Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tokyo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Canberra is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Couples?

Tokyo is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tokyo is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Tokyo or Canberra Better for Students?

Tokyo is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Tokyo. 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.

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

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

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Tokyo can take you anywhere. 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 Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Tokyo or Canberra a more walkable city?

Tokyo is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra 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.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Canberra?

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

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra?

Tokyo 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.

In Canberra, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse 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 Canberra?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Tokyo or Canberra?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Canberra. 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 Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Canberra, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Canberra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Canberra 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 Canberra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Canberra 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 Canberra.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Canberra?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Canberra, 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 Canberra?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Canberra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Canberra. The summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year.

In July, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Canberrain January. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Canberrain January. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Canberra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Canberra. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Canberra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Canberra fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Canberra. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Canberrain April. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Canberra in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Tokyo is much colder than Canberra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Canberra averages at about 11°C (52°F)in July.

In January, Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Canberrain July. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Canberra in the Spring?

Both Canberra and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Canberrain October. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Canberrain October. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Tokyo