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

Should you visit Tokyo or Portland?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Portland? 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.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Tokyo and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Portland. Tokyo is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. 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. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Tokyo different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is very popular for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tokyo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Tokyo is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Music?

Tokyo is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Portland?

Tokyo is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Families?

Tokyo is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Couples?

Tokyo is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Tokyo or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland 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 Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Tokyo is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Tokyo or Portland a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Portland?

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

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

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this tree-lined 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. 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 Portland?

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the scenic destination of Portland. 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, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Tokyo is in Asia and Portland is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Portland?

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

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Portland. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Tokyo is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tokyo in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Portland. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as Portland. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 18°C (64°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Portland. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. Tokyo is a little warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Tokyo usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Tokyo usually receives less rain than Portland. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tokyo is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tokyo in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than Portland. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Tokyo