A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagoya vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Nagoya travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Nagoya and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagoya. Although Nagoya and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Nagoya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagoya is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. It is also home to the Nagoya Castle. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Nagoya different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Nagoya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nagoya can be an interesting and educational experience. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nagoya is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Nagoya offers plenty to do in the evening. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nagoya is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Nagoya is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.


Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a nice place to visit for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Nagoya is a good city to visit for students. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.


Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Nagoya can get you to some places easily. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Nagoya
Mount Aspiring National Park

Nagoya is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

Nagoya is a very walkable city. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagoya than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Nagoya.


  • How many days in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nagoya 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Nagoya is a big city with plenty to do. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nagoya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nagoya has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Five days in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Nagoya is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the under-the-radar city of Nagoya. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the rugged destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Nagoya?

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

  • Nagoya Prices
    Japan Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nagoya $113
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Nagoya is $113, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. 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 Nagoya and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nagoya $48
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nagoya $96
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Nagoya and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ? 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 Nagoya


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


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: Nagoya Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nagoya $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nagoya

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

  • Japan Railway Station Shared Departure Transfer : Nagoya City to Nagoya Station: $71
  • Nagoya to Nagoya Int Airport NGO, Departure Private Transfer: $91
  • Shared Departure Transfer : Nagoya City to Chubu Airport: $99
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya City Hotels: $126
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya hotels to Nagoya Cruise Port: $139
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya hotels: $139
  • Nagoya to Nagoya Int Airport (NGO) - Departure Private Transfer: $151
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Cruise Port to Nagoya Airport (NGO): $201
  • Private Transfer - Nagoya Int Airport (NGO) to Nagoya Cruise Port: $201
  • Private Departure Transfer Nagoya City to Chubu Centrair International Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Airport (NGO) to Toyama Port: $235
  • Private Transfer from Nagoya Int Airport (NGO) to Nagoya Port: $285

Is it cheaper to fly into Nagoya or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Nagoya 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
    Nagoya $49
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nagoya

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

  • Nagoya Night Bar & Food Tour with Locals 【Private Tour】: $59
  • Osu Kannon Temple & Street Food Tour in Nagoya's Osu District: $83
  • gided japanese food tour in okazaki(aichi): $89
  • Private Nagoya-Style Japanese Cooking Class in Kasugai with Akiko: $110
  • Nagoya Super Market Tour & Home Cooking Class with a Local, Akiko: $116
  • Specialties of Nagoya Food Tour: $159
  • Traditional Ukai Watching Private Tour from Nagoya With Dinner: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nagoya $13
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Nagoya

For Nagoya, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ramen Making Experience: $38
  • Experience Being a Shinto Priest or Shrine Maiden at NAGOYA: $45
  • English-Guided Jogging Tour of the City (2 hours): $50
  • Shirakawago and Takayama Bus Tour from Nagoya: $58
  • Hida Takayama & Shirakawa-go Bus Tour w/Optional Lunch: $59
  • Shiragawa-go, Hida Takayama UNESCO Full-Day Tour from Nagoya: $61
  • Nagoya Castle Private Guided Tour: $64
  • Gujo, Hida Takayama, and Shirakawa-go Day Tour from Nagoya: $65
  • Shirakawa-go + Hida Takayama Day Tour from Nagoya Station: $66
  • Nagoya Tour in Inuyama Castle, Ena George, Magome and Tsumagojuku: $68
  • Private Japanese Martial Arts and Samurai Experience in Gifu: $68
  • Legoland Resort ticket in Japan : $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nagoya $13
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07

Sample the Local Flavors in Nagoya

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

  • The Nagoya Restaurant and Bar Crawl: $40


When comparing the travel costs between Nagoya and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Nagoya is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Nagoya Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.