Which place is cheaper, Kyoto or Zhengzhou?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Zhengzhou or Kyoto?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Kyoto can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Kyoto?
Zhengzhou
Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.
Kyoto
Kyoto is a larger city of Japan, though it is very much set in the old ways. With quiet temples, sublime gardens, colorful shrines, and geisha walking amidst a city surrounded by stunning mountains, Kyoto feels like a world of another time and place. True to ancient Japanese tradition, most aspects of daily life are tied closely with the changing of the seasons.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.
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Zhengzhou Prices
China PricesKyoto Prices
Japan Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZhengzhou $65Kyoto $118
The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $65, while the average daily cost in Kyoto is $118. 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 Zhengzhou and Kyoto in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZhengzhou $21Kyoto $66
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZhengzhou $42Kyoto $132
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Kyoto
Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Kyoto? 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.
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: Kyoto Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Zhengzhou $14Kyoto $7.82
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
- Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
- Zhengzhou airport or Train Staion Transfer Service: $150
- Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
- [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kyoto
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kyoto:
- Arashiyama Kinkakuji Quiet Trail E-Bike Tour with Hotel Transfer: $131
- Departure Transfer from Kyoto to Itami Airport ITM by Minivan: $130
- Japan Railway Station Shared Departure Transfer : Kyoto City to Kyoto Station: $71
- Kyoto hotels to Kansai Airport (KIX) - Departure Private Transfer: $142
- Naruto & Boruto at Nijigen no Mori Entry & Transfer: $47
- Minivan Departure Transfer from Kyoto City to Kansai Airport KIX: $260
- Private Transfer from Maizuru Cruise Port to Osaka Airport (ITM): $155
- Private Transfer from Maizuru Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $226
- Private Transfer from Maizuru Port to Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX): $248
- Private departure transfer from Kyoto city to Kansai International airport: $113
- Private departure transfer from Kyoto city to Osaka Itami International airport: $82
- Shared Departure Transfer: Kyoto City to Osaka Itami Airport: $107
Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Kyoto?
Prices for flights to both Kyoto and Zhengzhou 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
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Food Meals for one dayZhengzhou $36Kyoto $43
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.
- Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kyoto
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Kyoto.
- Sushi & Tempura Cooking Class: $48
- Kyoto Nishiki Market & Depachika: 2-hours Food Tour with a Local: $48
- Sushi Cooking Class (Making three types of sushi): $48
- Private Cooking Class Udon in Kyoto Japan: $54
- 1 hour Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki cooking class in Kyoto: $61
- Kyoto Ramen Spoon Painting & Michelin Cooking Class : $61
- Dinner with Maiko: $62
- Private Guided Traditional Buddhist Cooking in Japan: $69
- Kyoto Udon and Tempura Cooking Class with Professional Chefs: $72
- Kyoto Ramen Bowl Painting and Michelin Cooking Class: $75
- Ramen Bowl Painting & Cooking in Gion, Kyoto: $75
- Gion Food Tour 13 Dishes at 4 Eateries: $76
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zhengzhou $5.03Kyoto $13
Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou
Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Kaifeng city highlights tour with delicious lunch from Zhengzhou: $120
- Shaolin Temple One Day Tour: $125
- Private Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $126
- All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $140
- Private Independent Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $158
- Private Independent Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $169
- Zhengzhou Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes: $175
- Zhengzhou private day tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu show: $180
- Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
- Datong:HangingTemple&Grotto Private Car with Entrance ticket: $199
- Zhengzhou:Kaifeng Private Day Tour Featuring MUST-SEE Attractions: $209
Tours and Activities in Kyoto
Here are a few actual costs in Kyoto for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Kyoto KITSUNE Nightclub Admission Ticket For Foreign: $3.42
- Hidden Temples in Kyoto a Self-Guided Zen Tour: $3.57
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Explore the 1,000 Torii Gates on an audio walking tour: $7.99
- Kyoto Fushimi Inari Taisha Walking Tour with Audioguide: $8.34
- Kyoto Self-Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
- Kyoto Tower Entry Ticket: $12
- Kyoto K Drama GPS App Walking Tour Mobile Game: $14
- Nidec Kyoto Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket: $15
- Kyoto Sightseeing Pass E ticket: $15
- Kyoto Arashiyama Easy Walk Tour : $18
- Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: 3-Hour Guided Tour: $20
- Kyoto Railway Museum Advance Tickets: $20
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayZhengzhou $4.04Kyoto $13
Sample the Local Flavors in Kyoto
Also in Kyoto, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Kyoto Local Bar Crawl in Kawaramachi Area: $41
- Fushimi Cherry Blossom and Sake Brewery Tour: $101
- Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Walking Tour: $102
- Fushimi Sake Brewery Tour - 18 Tastings in 2.5 Hours: $162
- Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour with Lunch: $227
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zhengzhou and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto is more expensive. And not only is Zhengzhou much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zhengzhou would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zhengzhou 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 Kyoto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kyoto than you might in Zhengzhou.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Kyoto Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Kyoto?
Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou and Kyoto, 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 Zhengzhou or Kyoto?
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 Zhengzhou or Kyoto in the Summer?
Both Kyoto and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Kyoto. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zhengzhou in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Kyoto averages at about 27°C (81°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during summer. Zhengzhou gets 215 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Zhengzhou. In July, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyZhengzhou 28°C (83°F)Kyoto 27°C (81°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Kyoto in the Autumn?
Both Kyoto and Zhengzhou during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In October, Zhengzhou is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).
In the autumn, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 159 hours of full sun.
Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in October than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Kyoto 18°C (64°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Kyoto in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Kyoto. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. Zhengzhou can be very cold during winter. Zhengzhou is much colder than Kyoto in the winter. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Kyoto fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).
Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Kyoto during winter. Zhengzhou gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kyoto receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZhengzhou 1°C (34°F)Kyoto 5°C (40°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Kyoto in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Kyoto. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.
In the spring, Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Kyoto. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zhengzhou in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Kyoto averages at about 14°C (58°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zhengzhou this time of the year. In the spring, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kyoto receives 176 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Kyoto. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in April than Kyoto. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Kyoto 14°C (58°F)
Typical Weather for Kyoto and Zhengzhou
| Zhengzhou | Kyoto | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | 5°C (40°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 63 mm (2.5 in) |
| Mar | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) | 8°C (47°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 14°C (58°F) | 153 mm (6 in) |
| May | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 154 mm (6 in) |
| Jun | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 251 mm (9.9 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 236 mm (9.3 in) |
| Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) | 29°C (83°F) | 146 mm (5.7 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) | 24°C (75°F) | 196 mm (7.7 in) |
| Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 111 mm (4.4 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
| Dec | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 7°C (45°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.