A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Tokyo vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? 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 eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums.

Tokyo and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations, Tokyo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tokyo is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is famous for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

How is Tokyo different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a live music destination.

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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

People visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park make for a high quality place to visit.

Tokyo is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not popular with 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not popular with students.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its public transit.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Is Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Tokyo due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this dramatic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find museums around the majestic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tokyo Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Tokyo