A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yokohama vs. Tokyo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Yokohama or Tokyo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Tokyo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a bright, colorful, and under-rated city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a cutting edge, high tech, and high energy 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. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Yokohama and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Tokyo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Yokohama. Tokyo is bigger than Yokohama, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tokyo is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Yokohama is well known for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Yokohama different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tokyo and Yokohama. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Tokyo?

Tokyo is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tokyo that are not to be missed. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Tokyo is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo is a must-see 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.

Many people head to Yokohama for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is terrific for live music. However, Yokohama is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is a world class music destination. 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.

Yokohama is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Tokyo?

Tokyo is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Tokyo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Families?

Yokohama and Tokyo are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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.

Is Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Tokyo are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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.

Is Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yokohama and Tokyo are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Yokohama. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Tokyo is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Yokohama or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is terrific for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

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

Tokyo is terrific for its public transit. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Tokyo can take you anywhere. 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.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

Is Yokohama or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is terrific for its walkability. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Yokohama is a very walkable city. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Tokyo?

Both Yokohama and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Yokohama. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tokyo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Yokohama 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 Yokohama or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Yokohama has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The beautiful city of Tokyo offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Yokohama or Tokyo?

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

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.

Five days in Yokohama or Tokyo?

Yokohama is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Yokohama. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

A week in Yokohama or Tokyo?

You'll find food and shopping around the bright big city of Yokohama. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Yokohama. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Tokyo, 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 Yokohama or Tokyo?

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.

Should I visit Yokohama or Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Yokohama during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In the summer, Yokohama often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Tokyo. Most visitors come to Yokohama for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, 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.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Tokyo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo during autumn. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tokyo. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yokohama or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Tokyo. The winter months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In the winter, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Tokyo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yokohama in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Tokyo averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Yokohama often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Yokohama usually gets more rain in January than Tokyo. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tokyo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 14°C (58°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo during spring. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In April, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Tokyo. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Yokohama