A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Tokyo vs. Nikko for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Tokyo or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Nikko? 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a historic, cultural, and tranquil town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Tokyo and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Nikko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tokyo is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Tokyo is well known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Tokyo different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Nikko 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 Nikko that are not to be missed. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for Music?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Nikko is one of the most recognized in the world. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Nikko?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for Families?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Nikko is a very kid-friendly city. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Tokyo or Nikko Better for Couples?

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

Nikko makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko 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 Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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 Nikko Better for Students?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko 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.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Is Tokyo or Nikko a more walkable city?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Nikko is a very walkable city. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Tokyo or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Tokyo due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Nikko. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Nikko 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 Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Nikko?

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

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

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Nikko?

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Nikko?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 520 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

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 Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tokyo is around the same temperature as Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Nikko. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

Nikko 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 Nikko. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Nikko. 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 Nikko this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. Tokyo is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

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

In January, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Nikko. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Nikko in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Tokyo is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Nikko. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Tokyo