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

Should you visit Tokyo or Picton?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Picton? 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 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.

Picton

Picton is a picturesque, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Picton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Picton 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 Picton attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. 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. Picton is famous for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Tokyo different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

Tokyo is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Picton. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Tokyo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Music?

Tokyo is very popular for its music scene. However, Picton 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.

Picton is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Beaches?

Picton is great for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Picton is considered a top beach destination. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Picton for the hiking trails. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Picton?

Tokyo is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Families?

Tokyo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Tokyo is very family-friendly. 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.

Picton is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Tokyo and Picton make for a superb 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.

Picton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

Is Tokyo or Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Picton 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 Picton. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

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 Picton Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for students. However, Picton 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.

Picton is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is very popular for its public transit. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Tokyo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

Picton has some public transit options. There are water taxis but no buses around town.

Is Tokyo or Picton a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Picton is very walkable. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Picton or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Picton?

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

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

Tokyo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Picton, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Picton?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Picton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Picton. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Picton?

Tokyo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Picton. Most people come for the beaches. 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, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Picton?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 2780 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Picton, 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 Picton?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Picton is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Tokyo has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Tokyo or Picton in the Summer?

Both Picton 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 Picton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tokyo is a little warmer than Picton in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Picton fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in July than Pictonin January. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Picton. 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 small town atmosphere are the main draw to Picton this time of year.

In the autumn, Tokyo is a little warmer than Picton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Picton averages at about 15°C (58°F)in April.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Pictonin April. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tokyo or Picton in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Picton. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Tokyo is generally much colder than Pictonin July. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Picton. Tokyo usually gets less rain in January than Pictonin July. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton 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 Picton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

Tokyo is around the same temperature as Picton in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Picton fluctuates around 13°C (55°F)in October.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In April, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Pictonin October. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Picton and Tokyo