A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Philadelphia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Tokyo or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Philadelphia? 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 tech, high energy, and vibrant 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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Tokyo and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than Philadelphia, Philadelphia has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Philadelphia is more popular for its theatre productions, historical sights, and christmas markets, while Tokyo is known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Tokyo is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Tokyo different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is great for its shows and theatre. However, Tokyo is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Tokyo is not a theatre destination.

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

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

The people in Philadelphia know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

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

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Tokyo does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Tokyo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Tokyo does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Tokyo does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Tokyo is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Tokyo is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Tokyo or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Tokyo and Philadelphia are fantastic when it comes to 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.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Philadelphia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Philadelphia. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Philadelphia.

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

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Philadelphia, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this historic big city offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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.

A weekend in Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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

Each neighborhood in Tokyo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Philadelphia. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Tokyo is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural big city of Philadelphia. 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, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Tokyo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Philadelphia is in North America, 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 Tokyo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tokyo 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia than you might in Tokyo.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Philadelphia?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Philadelphia. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tokyo is generally around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Philadelphia. 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. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Philadelphia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. In the winter, Tokyo is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In April, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Philadelphia. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Tokyo