A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. The beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Chichibu-Tama-Kai travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a cultural, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. Christchurch is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Christchurch travel costs.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Christchurch. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch are popular destinations, Christchurch has more sights and attractions for tourists. Christchurch is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo. Christchurch is famous for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also well known for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Christchurch and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.


Is the Food Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Christchurch. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Christchurch attract visitors from all over. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Christchurch is a popular spot for hiking. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This park is perfectly positioned to offer a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's filled with beautiful forests and serene hiking trails that make for a wonderful day away.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly national park. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for couples. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Christchurch is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Students?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Christchurch is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Christchurch

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very walkable. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Christchurch is a very walkable national park. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Christchurch, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Christchurch than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Christchurch that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Christchurch.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Christchurch 2-4

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, many people enjoy the that this peaceful national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Christchurch, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Christchurch, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

You'll find around the relaxing destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Christchurch. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.


Which place is cheaper, Christchurch or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

  • Chichibu-Tama-Kai Prices
    Japan Prices
    Christchurch Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $90
    Christchurch $117

The average daily cost (per person) in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $90, while the average daily cost in Christchurch is $117. 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $35
    Christchurch $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $70
    Christchurch $98
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch? 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Hotels in Christchurch


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: Christchurch Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $21
    Christchurch $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Akaroa Cruise Port: $189
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $164
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Airport CHC to Christchurch in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Car: $130
  • Departure Transfer: Christchurch to Airport CHC by Business Car: $95
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Lyttelton Cruise Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Cruise Port to Christchurch City: $87
  • Christchurch Airport to City SUV Transfer: $57
  • CHC Airport to Downtown|Hotel Private Transfer: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Prices for flights to both Christchurch and Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $43
    Christchurch $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.39
    Christchurch $17

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour From Christchurch: $179
  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch: $173
  • (MT) Mount Cook Day Tour From Christchurch: $150
  • 1/2-Day Christchurch Scenic Highlights Small Group Tour: $173
  • 1/2-day Christchurch Scenic Highlights (Private Tour): $239
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114
  • Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch: $156
  • Arthur's Pass Day Tour From Christchurch with TranzAlpine: $255
  • Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch: $255
  • Arthur's Pass: TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour: $238
  • Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch With TranzAlpine: $264

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.60
    Christchurch $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

Also in Christchurch, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings: $108
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $114
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $116
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour : $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. And not only is Chichibu-Tama-Kai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chichibu-Tama-Kai is in Asia and Christchurch is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Chichibu-Tama-Kai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Christchurch would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Christchurch than you might in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chichibu-Tama-Kai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Christchurch. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Christchurch averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally a little warmer than Christchurchin April. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch in the Winter?

Both Christchurch and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Christchurch in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F)in July.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in January than Christchurchin July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Christchurch in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Christchurch. The spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in October.

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Christchurchin October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Christchurch
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)