A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Lake Tekapo for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Tokyo or Lake Tekapo?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Lake Tekapo? 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 high energy, vibrant, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping. See Tokyo travel costs.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a remote, basic, and small town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Lake Tekapo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Tokyo and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Lake Tekapo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Lake Tekapo are popular destinations, Tokyo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tokyo is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake Tekapo attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Tokyo is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Lake Tekapo is famous for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Tokyo different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tokyo on the map. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tokyo is terrific for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Tokyo is a must-see party destination. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Music?

Tokyo is terrific for its music scene. However, Lake Tekapo is not a live music destination.

In Tokyo you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Lake Tekapo is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Lake Tekapo is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Lake Tekapo for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo is terrific for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for shopping.

Tokyo is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Tokyo and Lake Tekapo.

With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Lake Tekapo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. You really want to get out of town and explore the area's stunning natural beauty.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

Tokyo is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lake Tekapo is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a great destination for couples. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Lake Tekapo is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Lake Tekapo 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.

Lake Tekapo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo Better for Students?

Tokyo is terrific for students. However, Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit 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.

Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is terrific for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Tokyo can take you anywhere. 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 is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Tokyo or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Lake Tekapo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Lake Tekapo is somewhat walkable. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tokyo or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tokyo than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo is a eclectic city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lake Tekapo, many people enjoy the that this small destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo is a high tech big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo is a cutting edge city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lake Tekapo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find around the small destination of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Lake Tekapo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Lake Tekapo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Lake Tekapo is in Pacific, 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 Lake Tekapo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Lake Tekapo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 25260 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Lake Tekapo, 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.