Which place is cheaper, Nikko or Zhengzhou?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Zhengzhou or Nikko?
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 Nikko can help you decide which place is right for you.
Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Nikko?
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.
Nikko
Nikko is a small Japanese city located in the mountains north of Tokyo. It is well-known for the site of Toshogu, a famed Shinto shrine established in 1617, in memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu who was the founding ruler of the Edo Period. The town is situated just outside of Nikko National Park which offers scenic mountain landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, wild monkeys, and hiking trails.
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 in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayZhengzhou $98Nikko $82
The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $98, while the average daily cost in Nikko is $82. 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 Nikko in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personZhengzhou $36Nikko $46
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomZhengzhou $72Nikko $92
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Nikko
Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Nikko? 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: Nikko Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Zhengzhou $63Nikko -
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:
- Private Transfer to Guoliang Village and Tunnel from Zhengzhou: $160
- Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
- Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
- Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
- Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
- One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $65
- Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer , Zhengzhou Airport Transfer : $53
- Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $31
- [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nikko
Also for Nikko, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Haneda Airport to/from Nikko City Private Transfer: $613
- Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Haneda Airport Departure Private Transfer: $263
- Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Narita Airport Private Departure Transfer: $263
- Narita Airport to/from Nikko City Private Transfer: $613
Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Nikko?
Prices for flights to both Nikko 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 $28Nikko $31
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
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Zhengzhou $8.18Nikko $21
Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou
Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $265
- All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $275
- All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $265
- All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $209
- Full-Day Private Kaifeng Highlight Tour from Zhengzhou: $248
- Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
- Kaifeng City Highlights Independant Tour from Zhengzhou: $80
- Private Day Tour to Guoliang from Zhengzhou: $268
- Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Songyang Academy from Zhengzhou: $233
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
- Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu Class from Zhengzhou: $287
Tours and Activities in Nikko
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nikko.
- Nikko self-guided tour app with multi-language audioguide: $4.28
- World Heritage Nikko Walking Tour - Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi: $59
- Visit the Unexplored Regions of Lake Chuzenji-Scenic Trekking and Rafting Tour: $76
- Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $137
- Nikko Custom Half Day Tour: $144
- Nikko Custom Full Day Tour: $228
- Nikko Private Full-Day Sightseeing Day Tour: $474
- Full Day Private Nikko Tour from Tokyo with English Driver: $474
- Nikko Toshogu, Lake Chuzenjiko & Kegon Waterfall 1 Day Tour: $483
- Full-Day Private Nikko Tour with English Speaking Driver: $600
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayZhengzhou $6.31Nikko $15
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zhengzhou and Nikko, we can see that Zhengzhou is more expensive. And not only is Nikko much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nikko would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nikko 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 Zhengzhou would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zhengzhou than you might in Nikko.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Nikko Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Nikko?
Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou and Nikko, 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 Nikko?
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 Zhengzhou or Nikko in the Summer?
Both Nikko and Zhengzhou during the summer are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.
Zhengzhou is a little warmer than Nikko in the summer. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
It's quite sunny in Zhengzhou. In the summer, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 215 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun.
Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in July than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyZhengzhou 28°C (83°F)Nikko 25°C (77°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Nikko in the Autumn?
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Nikko. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In the autumn, Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Nikko. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zhengzhou in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Nikko averages at about 16°C (61°F).
Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during autumn. Zhengzhou gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.
Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Nikko 16°C (61°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Nikko in the Winter?
The winter brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Nikko. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
The weather in Nikko can be very cold. Zhengzhou can be very cold during winter. In January, Zhengzhou is generally much colder than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 1°C (34°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In the winter, Zhengzhou often gets less sunshine than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun.
Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in January than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryZhengzhou 1°C (34°F)Nikko 3°C (37°F)
Should I visit Zhengzhou or Nikko in the Spring?
Both Nikko and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.
Zhengzhou is a little warmer than Nikko in the spring. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko during spring. Zhengzhou gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun in the spring.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. In April, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Nikko. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilZhengzhou 16°C (61°F)Nikko 13°C (55°F)
Typical Weather for Nikko and Zhengzhou
| Zhengzhou | Nikko | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 1°C (34°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | 3°C (37°F) | 26 mm (1 in) |
| Feb | 3°C (38°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) | 3°C (38°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) |
| Mar | 9°C (48°F) | 27 mm (1.1 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) |
| Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 108 mm (4.2 in) |
| May | 22°C (71°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 139 mm (5.5 in) |
| Jun | 27°C (80°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 21°C (70°F) | 206 mm (8.1 in) |
| Jul | 28°C (83°F) | 137 mm (5.4 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 171 mm (6.7 in) |
| Aug | 27°C (81°F) | 121 mm (4.8 in) | 27°C (80°F) | 195 mm (7.7 in) |
| Sep | 22°C (71°F) | 116 mm (4.6 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 201 mm (7.9 in) |
| Oct | 16°C (61°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 16°C (61°F) | 117 mm (4.6 in) |
| Nov | 9°C (49°F) | 25 mm (1 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
| Dec | 3°C (38°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 32 mm (1.2 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.