A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a other-worldly, spiritual, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Tokyo and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo. Although Tokyo and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) are both popular with visitors, Tokyo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tokyo is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture.

How is Tokyo different from Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tokyo are world-renowned. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Tokyo has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an experience not to be missed. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Music?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a live music destination.

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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a live music destination.


Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Resorts?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Hiking?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is renowned for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Families?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Couples?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Students?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Tokyo. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) a more walkable city?

Tokyo
Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable city. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.


For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

It's fun to spend time in either Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 3-4 days is enough time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.


  • How many days in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tokyo 3-7 
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4

One day in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), many people enjoy the food and shopping that this spectacular destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo is a cutting edge big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.

Five days in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. Five days here is typical. Your budget might influence how long you stay. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Lots of people come for the hiking. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It is common to spend one week here. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 10-Day Tours in Australia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Tokyo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tokyo is $157, while the average daily cost in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $151. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tokyo $76
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tokyo $152
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
Compare Hotels in Tokyo and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Looking for a hotel in Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)? 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.

Hotels in Tokyo


Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tokyo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tokyo $17
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $74

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • [Private airport transfer]Haneda Airport (HND)⇔Tokyo City: $150
  • Yokohama Private Arrival Transfer : Tokyo Hotels to Yokohama Port or Hotels: $152
  • Yokohama Port: Private Customizable Tour with Transfer: $328
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $90
  • Transfer in private minivan from Tokyo City Center to Narita Airport: $110
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Tokyo Narita Airport to City Center: $110
  • Tokyo:Haneda Airport (HND) Private One-Way Transfer to Tokyo: $125
  • Private transfer to/from Yokohama Osanbashi Port: $189
  • Private Transfer from/to Tokyo Narita Airport: $226
  • Private Transfer from/to Tokyo Haneda Airport: $136
  • Private Transfer from Haneda Airport for Arrivals: $75
  • Private One-Way Transfer to/from Haneda Airport: $95

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $112

Is it cheaper to fly into Tokyo or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

Prices for flights to both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Tokyo $37
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $46
Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:


  • Late Night Noodles
    $5.22
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    $5.22
  • Meal at Airport
    $6.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Takoyaki cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $22
  • Easy Ramen Cooking Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $25
  • 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno: $32
  • 【Contemporary Culture】Food tour I Always Visit in Shibuya: $38
  • 【Contemporary Culture】food tour I Always Visit in Shibuya: $39
  • Tokyo Best Cooking Class! Sushi Making Experience in Tsukiji: $52
  • Tokyo Best Cooking Class! Sushi making class in Tsukiji: $55
  • Japanese Traditional Cooking Class: $58
  • Wagyu and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class: $59
  • Tokyo Wagyu Culinary Tour Cooking Culture and Tasting: $65
  • Small-Group Wagyu Beef and 7 Japanese Dishes Tokyo Cooking Class: $68
  • Private Food Tour in Downtown Yanesen and Nezu Shrine: $72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $129
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $188
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $202
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $244

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tokyo $68
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

  • Art Japanese Fan Crafting Experience in Tokyo Asakusa: $23
  • Authentic Samurai Experience With Real Actors: $97
  • Mt. Fuji Roundtrip Tours From Shinjuku, Japan: $84
  • “Your name.” Going on an electric bicycle <Roppongi, Shinanomachi, Shinjuku> A 6-hour tour of a sacred place. (With support car): $133
  • "Nippori Fabric Town" Walking Tour: $41
  • *Starting / Ending at Your Hotel* 3hr Private E-bike Tour Tokyo: $134
  • 1 Day Bus Tour To Mitsumine Shrine From Shinjuku: $88
  • 1 Day Tokyo Charter Private Tour with English & Hindi Driver: $347
  • 1 Day Tokyo Private Charter Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $484
  • 1 Day Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Private Wagon: $474
  • 1 Day Walking Tour in Asakusa Traditional Tokyo and Nature: $143
  • 1 Day private Tour in Hakone with Hakone Freepass & Train Ticket: $84

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $15
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $233
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $110
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $146
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $66
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $69
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $65
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $146

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tokyo $33
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:


  • Sake
    $3.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: $25
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $52
  • Private Shinjuku Nightlife Walking Tour & Golden-Gai Bar Crawl: $78
  • barhopping tour&bar crawl in Retro Town Shimokitazawa: $82
  • Toshimaya Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $88
  • Tokyo | 3 Hours Brewery Tour with Sake Sommelier: $101
  • Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $104
  • Sake Brewery and Spiritual Nature Tour in Okutama Tokyo: $133
  • Private Local Craft Brewery Tour in Tokyo: $150
  • Wooden Barrel Sake Brewery Tour and Unlimited Tasting Near Tokyo: $161
  • Private Walking Tour with Sake Brewery Visit in Chichibu: $190


When comparing the travel costs between Tokyo and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), we can see that Tokyo 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is in Pacific, 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive?.