A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Beijing or Hiroshima?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Hiroshima can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a historic, massive, and jam-packed city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a meaningful, park-filled, and memorable city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Beijing and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Hiroshima?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Hiroshima. Beijing is bigger than Hiroshima, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Hiroshima is well known for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Beijing different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Hiroshima?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Hiroshima.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Travelers visit Hiroshima from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hiroshima. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Hiroshima?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hiroshima and Beijing.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hiroshima. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima More Beautiful?

Beijing is a city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Both Beijing and Hiroshima are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Hiroshima offers lots of family activities. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Both Beijing and Hiroshima are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Hiroshima is a nice destination for couples. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Beijing is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Beijing and Hiroshima.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Hiroshima. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around town.

Is Beijing or Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Hiroshima is a very walkable destination. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas on foot.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beijing and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than in Hiroshima. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

Couples should spend more time in Beijing than Hiroshima. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Beijing that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Hiroshima 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 Beijing.

One day in Beijing or Hiroshima?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Hiroshima?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Hiroshima, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hiroshima has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Hiroshima?

People visit Beijing because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Hiroshima?

Beijing is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beijing, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hiroshima. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Hiroshima would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hiroshima than you might in Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Hiroshima?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Hiroshima, 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 Beijing or Hiroshima?

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 Beijing or Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In the summer, Beijing is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun.

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets less rain in July than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Hiroshima. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

In October, Beijing is generally cooler than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Hiroshima in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hiroshima in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. Beijing is much colder than Hiroshima in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Beijing is around the same temperature as Hiroshima. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Beijing