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

Should you visit Tokyo or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Honolulu? 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 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.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Tokyo and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Tokyo is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Tokyo and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Tokyo is well known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

How is Tokyo different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Honolulu 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 Honolulu that are not to be missed. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu 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 Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Music?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Honolulu. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is renowned for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

People visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Honolulu?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tokyo or Honolulu.

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.

Honolulu is one of the most popular family destinations. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Couples?

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

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu 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 Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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 Honolulu Better for Students?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Tokyo or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu is a very walkable city. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Honolulu?

Both Tokyo and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tokyo than Honolulu. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Tokyo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Tokyo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Tokyo or Honolulu?

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 Honolulu, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic big city offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Five days in Tokyo or Honolulu?

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.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. In Honolulu, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tokyo or Honolulu?

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.

In Honolulu, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this energetic big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Tokyo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Honolulu is in North America, 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 Tokyo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tokyo 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 Honolulu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Honolulu than you might in Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Honolulu?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Honolulu, 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 Honolulu?

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 Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu 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 Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tokyo is generally cooler than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Honolulu. The winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

Tokyo is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Honolulu. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tokyo is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Tokyo