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

Should you visit Tokyo or Glasgow?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Glasgow? 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a high energy, friendly, 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Glasgow: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Glasgow?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Glasgow. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tokyo is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Glasgow attracts visitors for its historical sights. Tokyo is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Tokyo different from Glasgow?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Glasgow has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Music?

Tokyo and Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is a world class music destination. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Glasgow has an old town worth visiting. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Glasgow?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Families?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Couples?

Tokyo is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Glasgow are nice 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.

Glasgow is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow Better for Students?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

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 Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Tokyo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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 Glasgow is fairly effecient and thorough. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Is Tokyo or Glasgow a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Glasgow is very walkable. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Glasgow or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Glasgow?

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

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

Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Glasgow, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic 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 Glasgow?

Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Tokyo or Glasgow?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Glasgow. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Glasgow, we can see that Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Glasgow?

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

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 Glasgow in the Summer?

Both Glasgow and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Glasgow in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tokyo is much warmer than Glasgow in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Glasgow fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Glasgow during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Glasgow. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Glasgow in the Autumn?

Both Glasgow and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Tokyo is much warmer than Glasgow. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Glasgow averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 69 hours of full sun.

Glasgow 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 Glasgow. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Glasgow in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Glasgow. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Glasgow can be very cold. In January, Tokyo is generally much warmer than Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Glasgow during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Glasgow in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Glasgow. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year.

Tokyo is much warmer than Glasgow in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Glasgow fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 134 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Glasgow. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Glasgow and Tokyo