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

Should you visit Tokyo or Ghent?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Ghent? 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. Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping. See Tokyo travel costs.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural city. Many visitors also come to Ghent because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Ghent travel costs.

Tokyo and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Ghent?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Ghent. Tokyo is bigger than Ghent, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Ghent is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Tokyo is more touristy than Ghent 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. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Tokyo different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Tokyo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Ghent has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Tokyo and Ghent.

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.

Ghent has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Music?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for live music. However, Ghent is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is a world class music destination. 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.

Ghent is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is great for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Ghent?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Tokyo or Ghent More Beautiful?

Ghent is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Ghent because of it's amazing beauty. With its medieval architecture and beautiful waterfront areas, the city has a lot to offer.

Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Families?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tokyo is very family-friendly. 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Ghent make for a superb 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.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Ghent are notable 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.

Ghent is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Tokyo or Ghent Better for Students?

For students, both Tokyo and Ghent are amazing places to visit.

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.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

Tokyo and Ghent both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

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.

Public transit in Ghent is top-notch. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Is Tokyo or Ghent a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Tokyo 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.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Ghent. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

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

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 Ghent, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Ghent?

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.

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ghent. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Ghent?

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 cultural destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Budget Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Ghent, 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 Ghent is in Europe, 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 Ghent Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Ghent?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Tokyo during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ghent because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tokyo is a little warmer than Ghent. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Ghent averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Ghent. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Ghent. The autumn months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

In October, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Ghent. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Ghent. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ghent. Tokyo is much warmer than Ghent in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Ghent. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tokyo is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Ghent averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ghent during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Ghent. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Tokyo