A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hiroshima vs. Nelson for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hiroshima or Nelson?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hiroshima and Nelson 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.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Hiroshima travel costs.

Nelson

Nelson is a adventure-filled, natural, and beautiful city. Nelson is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nelson travel costs.

Hiroshima and Nelson: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hiroshima or Nelson?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Nelson than Hiroshima. While Hiroshima is larger than Nelson, Nelson has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nelson is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Nelson is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its stunning national parks, beautiful coastline, and outdoor adventures. It is also home to Abel Tasman National Park. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Hiroshima different from Nelson?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hiroshima is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Nelson is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hiroshima that are not to be missed. 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.

Nelson offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people spend their time enjoying the nature-oriented activities, there are several museums in the area as well. Founder's Heritage Park Museum is a village-like setting that you can explore. There's also the Nelson Classic Car Museum and local art and craft galleries that are fun to walk through.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Hiroshima and Nelson can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Nelson. Local ingredients, vineyards, and craft breweries all make the foodie scene around town interesting. There are many great restaurants that offer seasonal menus that change with the season. Eating is an experience in town, and locals take pride in the food they produce.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Hiroshima and Nelson.

If you're looking for night time activities Hiroshima has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nelson. The city attracts a good tourist crowd, and there are bars and clubs that keep things interesting late into the evening.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Beaches?

Nelson is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Nelson is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in the area are sandy and most are great for swimming. There are many water sports available as well such as kayaking, kite surfing, and paddleboarding. You'll find locals and tourists alike hanging out at the beach and enjoying a barbecue.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Hiking?

Nelson is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Around Nelson visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The area is filled with walking and hiking trails that wander along the coast and soak up the spectacular views. There are also three national parks in the area that are filled with trails. Abel Tasman National Park, Kahurangi National Park, and Nelson Lakes National Park each have their own environments and scenery to explore.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hiroshima or Nelson?

Hiroshima is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Nelson is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Hiroshima is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nelson. There are weekly markets in the area and a variety of retail shops where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson More Beautiful?

Nelson is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nelson is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful scenery and wonderful outdoor environments.

Hiroshima is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Families?

Nelson is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Nelson is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Surrounded by family-friendly national parks, this city has a number of things for kids to do. In particularly, Abel Tasman National Park is a highlight for kids, with canoeing, sailing and other activities. Kids will also enjoy a visit to Cable Bay Adventure Park or seeing the historically themed Founders Park.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Couples?

Nelson is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Nelson is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Wilderness, national parks, beaches, and mountain scenery make this a wonderful couples destination. The area also has beautiful vineyards and gardens as well hiking and outdoor adventures.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Hiroshima or Nelson Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nelson is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Nelson. There are many hostels in the area as well as outdoor activities and adventure sports that backpackers will love.

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

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

Hiroshima is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Nelson is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Nelson. The city has a local bus network, but to efficiently explore everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

Is Hiroshima or Nelson a more walkable city?

Hiroshima and Nelson are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Nelson is a very walkable city. There are many great walks in the area and its a wonderful way to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Nelson or Hiroshima?

How long in Hiroshima or Nelson?

In either Hiroshima or Nelson, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nelson than Hiroshima because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hiroshima, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nelson.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nelson 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 Nelson.

One day in Hiroshima or Nelson?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Hiroshima. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nelson. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A weekend in Hiroshima or Nelson?

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Nelson. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Hiroshima or Nelson?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hiroshima. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the outdoorsy city of Nelson. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Hiroshima or Nelson?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Hiroshima. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nelson is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Hiroshima and Nelson, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Hiroshima is in Asia and Nelson is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Hiroshima or Nelson?

Hiroshima has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nelson. When comparing the sizes of Hiroshima and Nelson, 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.