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

Should you visit Tokyo or Nara?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Nara? 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 iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Nara

Nara is a traditional, tranquil, and natural city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Nara?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Nara, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Nara is known for its historical sights and hiking. Tokyo is more touristy than Nara and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Nara is popular for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Tokyo different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Many visitors head to Nara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Nara is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a world class 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.

Nara has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Music?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Nara is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Tokyo 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.

Nara is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for its Old Town?

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

Nara has an old town worth visiting. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Hiking?

Nara is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nara for the hiking trails. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Nara?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Tokyo make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nara. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Families?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nara. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Nara make for a high quality 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.

Nara is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Nara are good 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.

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

Is Tokyo or Nara Better for Students?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for students. However, Nara is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Tokyo. 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.

Nara is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Nara offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

Is Tokyo or Nara a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Tokyo 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.

Nara is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nara or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Nara?

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

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

Tokyo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Nara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city 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 Nara?

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Tokyo is a high tech big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Nara is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nara. 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 Nara?

Tokyo is a high tech city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Nara. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Nara?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Tokyo during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Nara. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Nara fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nara. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun.

Nara gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets less rain in July than Nara. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nara in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Nara. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nara for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Nara in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Nara fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Nara during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Nara receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Nara. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nara in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Nara. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Nara in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nara can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Tokyo is a little warmer than Nara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Nara averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Nara. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun.

Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Nara. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nara in the Spring?

Both Nara and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Nara for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Nara. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Nara fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Nara during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In April, Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nara. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nara and Tokyo