A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Tokyo vs. Mashiko for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Mashiko?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Mashiko? 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.

Mashiko

Mashiko is a rural, quaint, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Tokyo and Mashiko: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Tokyo or Mashiko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Mashiko are popular destinations, Tokyo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tokyo is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mashiko attracts visitors for its hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Mashiko is famous for its local sake, rural farms, and longstanding tradition in pottery making.

How is Tokyo different from Mashiko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Mashiko is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that are focused on the local activities such as pottery. You can check out the Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan Museum, the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art, and the Entsuji Temple.


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

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Mashiko offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around town that serve udon, soba, and other Japanese favorites that use local ingredients.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Mashiko is not known for nightlife.

People head to Tokyo just to party. 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.

Most people don't head to Mashiko specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a couple of bars and pubs around town, but not a huge nightlife scene.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Music?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Mashiko is not a live music destination.

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.

Mashiko is not a live music destination.


Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Hiking?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Mashiko is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Mashiko is a good destination for hiking. There are three mountains in the area with hiking trails that let you experience the Japanese countryside and natural beauty. These mountains are Mt. Amamakisan, Mt.Mitsudoyasan, and Mt. Takadateyama.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Mashiko?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Mashiko is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Local pottery is the main purchase in town, and there are many shops and local vendors who sell locally made pottery.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Families?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Mashiko is a very family-friendly place to visit. Pottery is the claim to fame in this small town, and kids will thoroughly enjoy taking a children's pottery class. Its the perfect way to immerse them in the local culture in a fun and hands-on way. Farm life, and fruit picking are also popular here.


Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Couples?

Tokyo
Mashiko

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Mashiko make for a very good 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.

Mashiko is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with local farms, pottery, and sake. Many couples enjoy spending a few days soaking up the local atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mashiko is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Mashiko is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't venture to this community, but its seeped in quaint culture and small town atmosphere.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko Better for Students?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Mashiko is not popular with 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.

Mashiko is not popular with students.


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

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. 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.

Mashiko has a few public transit options. There are local trains that stop by the strawberry picking farms. There are also local buses in the area.

Is Tokyo or Mashiko a more walkable city?

Tokyo
Mashiko

Tokyo is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Mashiko is very walkable. Many people choose to walk around town and the pottery area is about a 20 minute walk from Mashiko Station.

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

Should I spend more time in Mashiko or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Mashiko?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tokyo or Mashiko to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tokyo than Mashiko 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 Mashiko.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Mashiko. 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 Mashiko. 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 Mashiko 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.


  • How many days in Tokyo or Mashiko? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tokyo 3-7 
    Mashiko 1-2

One day in Tokyo or Mashiko?

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.

Even though Mashiko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Mashiko?

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 Mashiko. 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 Mashiko?

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.

Mashiko is a fun place to experience. Mashiko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Mashiko?

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.

Mashiko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Mashiko or Tokyo?

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 Mashiko is $65. 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 Mashiko in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tokyo $77
    Mashiko $33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tokyo $154
    Mashiko $66
Compare Hotels in Tokyo and Mashiko

Looking for a hotel in Tokyo or Mashiko? 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.

Hotels in Tokyo


Hotels in Mashiko


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tokyo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tokyo $18
    Mashiko $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Haneda Airport to/from Kamakura City Private Transfer: $502
  • One Way Shuttle Van Transfer, Tokyo ⇔ Hakone: $449
  • Haneda Airport (HND): Private Transfer to/from Fuji Area: $407
  • Haneda Airport (HND): Private Transfer to/from Hakone: $407
  • Tokyo City: Private One-Way Transfers to/from Hakone City: $386
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Fuji: $386
  • Narita Airport NRT Private Transfer to/from Tokyo Region: $370
  • Yokohama Port: Private Customizable Tour with Transfer: $343
  • Shuttle Van Transfer from Tokyo 23 Wards to Narita for AM. FLIGHT: $290
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Haneda Airport HND to Tokyo in Sedan: $282
  • Private Transfer: Haneda Airport HND to Tokyo in Sedan Car: $282
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tokyo to Haneda Airport HND in Sedan: $281

Is it cheaper to fly into Tokyo or Mashiko?

Prices for flights to both Mashiko 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tokyo $38
    Mashiko $23
Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:


  • Late Night Noodles
    $5.28
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    $5.28
  • Meal at Airport
    $6.89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno: $34
  • Private Sushi Roll Cooking Class in Japan: $39
  • Tokyo Food Tour: An Afternoon in Nakameguro!: $49
  • Japanese Traditional Cooking Class: $61
  • Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class: $70
  • Sustainable Vegetable Temari Sushi Cooking Class in Asakusa: $71
  • Unique Private Cooking Class with a Tokyo Local Emi: $74
  • Private Food Tour in Downtown Yanesen and Nezu Shrine: $75
  • Retro Food Tour in Yanaka: $78
  • Mochi and Nerikiri Wagashi Combination Cooking Class: $81
  • 2 and a Half Hour Cooking Home Style Dishes in Japan: $81
  • Private Cooking Lesson With a Tokyo Native Makiko in Her Local Home: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tokyo $69
    Mashiko $8.96

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

  • 4 Hours Private Shibuya - Shinjuku Night Tour: $135
  • Art Japanese Fan Crafting Experience in Tokyo Asakusa: $24
  • Feel the History Walking Tour Starting from Imperial Palace: $52
  • Tokyo Full Day Tour With Guide and Foods Included: $275
  • Walking Tour to Temple and Izakaya from the River: $119
  • “Your name.” Going on an electric bicycle <Roppongi, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku> A 6-hour tour of a sacred place. (With support car): $139
  • "Nippori Fabric Town" Walking Tour: $41
  • **Starting / Ending at Your Hotel** Tokyo Private E-bike Tour: $139
  • 1 Day Mount Nokogiri Hiking Tour from Tokyo: $257
  • 1 Day private Tour in Hakone with Hakone Freepass & Train Ticket: $83
  • 1 Hour Meiji Jingu Shrine Walking Tour in Harajuku: $52
  • 1-Day Tokyo Bus Tour: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tokyo $33
    Mashiko $5.19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:


  • Sake
    $3.96

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

  • Low-cost local pub & bar crawling: $30
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $52
  • Private Shinjuku Nightlife Walking Tour & Golden-Gai Bar Crawl: $81
  • 【Tokyo】Yokocho walking and Japanese pub crawl tour: $100
  • Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $108
  • Private Local Craft Brewery Tour in Tokyo: $150
  • Premium Sake Tasting & Pairing Experience in a Historical Brewery: $169
  • Private Walking Tour with Sake Brewery Visit in Chichibu: $190
  • Private tour: Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and riverside walk.: $236


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Mashiko?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Mashiko. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Mashiko, 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 Mashiko?

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 Mashiko in the Summer?

Both Mashiko 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 Mashiko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Mashiko in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Mashiko fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mashiko during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Mashiko receives 130 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mashiko. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Mashiko. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tokyo 26°C (78°F) 
    Mashiko 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Tokyo or Mashiko in the Autumn?

Both Mashiko 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mashiko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Tokyo is a little warmer than Mashiko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Mashiko averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mashiko. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mashiko receives 133 hours of full sun.

Mashiko 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 Mashiko. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tokyo 18°C (64°F) 
    Mashiko 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Tokyo or Mashiko in the Winter?

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

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

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mashiko during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Mashiko receives 181 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Mashiko. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tokyo 5°C (42°F) 
    Mashiko 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Tokyo or Mashiko in the Spring?

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

Tokyo is a little warmer than Mashiko in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Mashiko fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mashiko. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mashiko receives 160 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Mashiko. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Mashiko. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 118 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tokyo 14°C (58°F) 
    Mashiko 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Mashiko and Tokyo

Tokyo Mashiko
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 125 mm (4.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 186 mm (7.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 175 mm (6.9 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 127 mm (5 in) 24°C (75°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 26°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 180 mm (7.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)