Which place is cheaper, Hiroshima or Tokyo?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Should I visit Tokyo or Hiroshima? 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 is a vibrant, iconic, and eclectic 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.
Hiroshima is a meaningful, park-filled, and memorable city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.
You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Hiroshima. Tokyo is bigger than Hiroshima, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is more touristy than Hiroshima and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Hiroshima is well known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hiroshima and Tokyo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Hiroshima and Tokyo.
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.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hiroshima that are not to be missed. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Hiroshima is not a live music destination.
Tokyo is known as a music capital 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.
Hiroshima is not a live music destination.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Tokyo. 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.
Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.
Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.
Tokyo is a great city for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
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.
Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.
For backpackers, both Tokyo and Hiroshima 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.
Hiroshima is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima is not popular with students.
Tokyo is a very popular city 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.
Hiroshima is not popular with students.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.
Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive 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.
The public transit in Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.
Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.
Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Hiroshima. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.
Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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.
People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this meaningful destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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.
People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. 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.
People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
Hiroshima is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.
Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
You'll find food and shopping around the meaningful destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Tokyo is $158, while the average daily cost in Hiroshima is $102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tokyo and Hiroshima in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Tokyo or Hiroshima? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Also for Hiroshima, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Hiroshima and Tokyo change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:
For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
For Hiroshima, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hiroshima.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Hiroshima, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Hiroshima much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hiroshima would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tokyo Expensive? and Is Hiroshima Expensive?.
Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Hiroshima, 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.
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.
Both Hiroshima and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hiroshima for the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In the summer, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 26°C (79°F).
Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Hiroshima and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the shopping scene.
In October, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).
In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.
Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Hiroshima. The winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.
It's quite cold in Hiroshima in the winter. Tokyo is a little warmer than Hiroshima in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).
Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Hiroshima. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.
In the spring, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 14°C (56°F).
In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets less rain in April than Hiroshima. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.
Tokyo | Hiroshima | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 5°C (42°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 4°C (40°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
Feb | 6°C (42°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
Mar | 9°C (47°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 8°C (46°F) | 108 mm (4.3 in) |
Apr | 14°C (58°F) | 125 mm (4.9 in) | 14°C (56°F) | 168 mm (6.6 in) |
May | 19°C (66°F) | 138 mm (5.4 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 157 mm (6.2 in) |
Jun | 22°C (71°F) | 186 mm (7.3 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 260 mm (10.2 in) |
Jul | 26°C (78°F) | 127 mm (5 in) | 26°C (79°F) | 238 mm (9.4 in) |
Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 148 mm (5.8 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) |
Sep | 23°C (74°F) | 180 mm (7.1 in) | 23°C (74°F) | 185 mm (7.3 in) |
Oct | 18°C (64°F) | 165 mm (6.5 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Nov | 13°C (55°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 67 mm (2.6 in) |
Dec | 8°C (46°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 37 mm (1.5 in) |