Which place is cheaper, Okinawa or Tokyo?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Should I visit Tokyo or Okinawa? 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 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, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and shopping.
Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Okinawa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tokyo is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Okinawa attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. 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. Okinawa is famous for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Okinawa and Tokyo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.
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.
Okinawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.
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.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Okinawa. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife.
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.
Okinawa has a large number of nightlife venues. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Okinawa 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.
Okinawa is not a live music destination.
Okinawa is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.
Okinawa is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.
Tokyo is not a resort destination.
Okinawa is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
The clear water and abundant marine life make Okinawa a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.
Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Okinawa is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.
Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Okinawa. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.
Tokyo is not a beach destination.
Okinawa is renowned for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.
People visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.
Tokyo is not a hiking destination.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit 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.
Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Okinawa. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tokyo or Okinawa.
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.
Okinawa is one of the most popular family destinations. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.
Okinawa is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.
Okinawa makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple 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.
For backpackers, both Tokyo and Okinawa 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.
Okinawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for students. However, Okinawa 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.
Okinawa is not popular with students.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago 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.
Okinawa has some public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.
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.
Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.
For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.
Both Tokyo and Okinawa 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 Okinawa. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Couples should spend more time in Okinawa than Tokyo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Okinawa that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Okinawa 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.
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.
In Okinawa, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this lush destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This archipelago 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.
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 Okinawa. 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.
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.
Okinawa is a fun place to experience. In Okinawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this 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.
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.
In Okinawa, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this idyllic destination 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.
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 Okinawa is $105. 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 Okinawa in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Tokyo or Okinawa? 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.
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.
Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Okinawa:
Prices for flights to both Okinawa 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:
For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Okinawa.
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Okinawa are as follows:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Okinawa:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Okinawa, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Okinawa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Okinawa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Okinawa 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 Okinawa.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tokyo Expensive? and Is Okinawa Expensive?.
Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Okinawa. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Okinawa, 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.
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.
Both Okinawa and Tokyo during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.
Tokyo is cooler than Okinawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Okinawa fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).
In Okinawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.
Okinawa 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 Okinawa. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Okinawa. The autumn months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.
In the autumn, Tokyo is cooler than Okinawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Okinawa averages at about 25°C (77°F).
Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Okinawa during autumn. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.
Okinawa 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 Okinawa. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Okinawa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In January, Tokyo is generally much colder than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).
In the winter, Tokyo often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Okinawa and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.
Tokyo is much colder than Okinawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Okinawa fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).
Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In April, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Tokyo | Okinawa | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 5°C (42°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 125 mm (4.9 in) |
Feb | 6°C (42°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 107 mm (4.2 in) |
Mar | 9°C (47°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 156 mm (6.1 in) |
Apr | 14°C (58°F) | 125 mm (4.9 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 164 mm (6.5 in) |
May | 19°C (66°F) | 138 mm (5.4 in) | 24°C (76°F) | 254 mm (10 in) |
Jun | 22°C (71°F) | 186 mm (7.3 in) | 27°C (80°F) | 255 mm (10 in) |
Jul | 26°C (78°F) | 127 mm (5 in) | 29°C (84°F) | 171 mm (6.7 in) |
Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 148 mm (5.8 in) | 28°C (83°F) | 266 mm (10.5 in) |
Sep | 23°C (74°F) | 180 mm (7.1 in) | 28°C (82°F) | 161 mm (6.3 in) |
Oct | 18°C (64°F) | 165 mm (6.5 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 152 mm (6 in) |
Nov | 13°C (55°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) |
Dec | 8°C (46°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) |