A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zhengzhou vs. Tokyo for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Zhengzhou or Tokyo?

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 Tokyo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Tokyo?

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.

Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is by far the most populous city in the world with a staggering 37 million people. As a worldwide hub for technology and business, it hosts millions of visitors annually. But Tokyo is not just a place for business trips. With its incredible mixture of historical temples and shrines, remarkably beautiful parks, endless shopping malls, and genuinely wonderful people, Tokyo is a terrific place to visit and to explore.

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 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Zhengzhou?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Zhengzhou Prices
    China Prices
    Tokyo Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zhengzhou $65
    Tokyo $190

The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $65, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is $190. 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 Tokyo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zhengzhou $21
    Tokyo $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zhengzhou $42
    Tokyo $158
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Tokyo? 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 Zhengzhou


Hotels in Tokyo


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.
    Zhengzhou $14
    Tokyo $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:

  • Zhengzhou airport or Train Staion Transfer Service: $150
  • 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 Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
  • [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

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

  • Private Transfer from Tokyo to Narita Airport: $232
  • Airport Shuttle Arrival Transfer : from Haneda Airport to Tokyo City: $65
  • Airport Transfer between Narita and Tokyo or Disney or Yokohama: $231
  • Airport Transfer: Haneda Airport and Tokyo 23 wards: $135
  • Center Tokyo Private One Way Transfer To Haneda Airport: $116
  • DECKS Tokyo Beach & Odaiba 1 Way Door to Door Shared Transfer: $56
  • Departure Private Transfer: Tokyo to Haneda Airport HND in Sedan: $286
  • Departure Transfer from Tokyo City to Haneda Airport HND by van: $176
  • Disabled-passenger transfer from Haneda Airport to Yokohama Port : $216
  • Discount Rate, Airport Shuttle Van Transfer, Haneda ⇔ Narita : $260
  • Discover Makaino Farm with Bus Transfer from Tokyo: $71
  • Disneyland or Disneysea Transfer to or from Tokyo English Driver: $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zhengzhou $36
    Tokyo $67

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

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

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


  • Late Night Noodles
    $5.41
  • Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack
    $5.41
  • Meal at Airport
    $7.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

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

  • Tsukiji Food Tour Explore Markets and Temples in Tokyo: $18
  • Hide's Table A Unique Dinner Gathering Every Wednesday Night: $21
  • Tokyo Ramen Dojo: Authentic Ramen Cooking Class & Tasting: $34
  • Guided Tsukiji’s Local Food Tour : $34
  • Tokyo : Vintage, Music & Food Tour in Shimokitazawa with a Local: $34
  • For First Time Visitor:Tsukiji Food Tour with Tokyo Travel Advice: $34
  • Authentic Homestyle Japanese Cooking Class near Tokyo with Risa: $39
  • Tokyo Bay Yakatabune Dinner/Day Cruise with Japan Show and Drinks: $44
  • Weekend Japanese Cooking Demonstration with a Tokyo Mom, Toshiko: $49
  • Japanese Sushi Cooking Class: $51
  • Tokyo private hidden food tour: $55
  • Mastering the Grill A Ninja Yakiniku A5 Wagyu Dinner in Nippori : $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zhengzhou $5.03
    Tokyo $71

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 Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $140
  • All-Inclusive Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Day Tour: $251
  • Beijing: Shaolin Temple Day Tour by Round Trip Bullet Train: $358
  • Datong:HangingTemple&Grotto Private Car with Entrance ticket: $199
  • Full-Day Private Kaifeng Highlight Tour from Zhengzhou: $248
  • Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
  • Kaifeng city highlights tour with delicious lunch from Zhengzhou: $120
  • Private Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $210
  • 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 Tokyo

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

  • Imperial Palace or Edo Castle Time Trip Learning Walking Tour: $3.42
  • Tokyo 4‑Day Self‑Guided PDF Tour of Senso‑ji, Shibuya and more: $3.42
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre Guided Tour: $3.46
  • Self-Guided Tour of Tokyo's Hidden Alleys: $3.57
  • Cross Roppongi Karaoke Nightclub Ticket (For Foreign): $6.76
  • Tokyo Asakusa & Senso-ji Tour with Audioguide: $8.34
  • Tokyo Metro Subway Ticket: $8.85
  • Horse Racing Tour with Local Fans in Tokyo: $10
  • Shibuya drinking tour: $10
  • Gyoda Oshi Castle Ninja Experience : $11
  • Tokyo Subway Ticket : $11
  • Water Bus Ticket Odaiba ↔ Asakusa: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zhengzhou $4.04
    Tokyo $34

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

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


  • Sake
    $4.06

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

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

  • Low-cost local pub & bar crawling: $34
  • 3 Hours Pub Crawl Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $35
  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: Unique Japanese Drinks in Shimokitazawa: $38
  • 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $46
  • Private Shinjuku Nightlife Walking Tour & Golden-Gai Bar Crawl: $114
  • Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and jump into historic town: $116
  • Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $132
  • Sake Brewery and Spiritual Nature Tour in Okutama Tokyo: $142
  • Cultural Sake Brewery Private Tour & Unlimited Tasting Near Tokyo: $172
  • From Tokyo:Mt.fuji /Museum/Sake brewery/ 1DAY BUS TOUR: $201
  • Private tour: Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and riverside walk.: $242


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zhengzhou and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo 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 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 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 Tokyo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zhengzhou. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou or Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Zhengzhou during the summer are popular places to visit. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zhengzhou is generally around the same temperature as Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 28°C (83°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Zhengzhou. In the summer, Zhengzhou often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 215 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 Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F) 
    Tokyo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zhengzhou and Tokyo. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

Zhengzhou is around the same temperature as Tokyo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Zhengzhou gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Tokyo 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Tokyo. Also, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Zhengzhou in the winter. In the winter, Zhengzhou is much colder than Tokyo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zhengzhou in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Tokyo averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Zhengzhou often gets less sunshine than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in January than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F) 
    Tokyo 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Zhengzhou or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Zhengzhou are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zhengzhou is generally a little warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 16°C (61°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zhengzhou. Zhengzhou usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Zhengzhou gets 201 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. In April, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Tokyo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou Tokyo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
May 22°C (71°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Jun 27°C (80°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 137 mm (5.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 23°C (74°F) 180 mm (7.1 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)