A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nikko vs. Auckland for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Nikko or Auckland?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nikko and Auckland 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.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Auckland travel costs.

Nikko and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nikko or Auckland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland. Although Nikko and Auckland are popular destinations, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower.

How is Nikko different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nikko or Auckland?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Is the Food Better in Nikko or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nikko and Auckland offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Nikko. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Auckland. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Auckland is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Auckland for the nightlife scene. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Auckland is great for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Auckland?

Auckland is great for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Nikko or Auckland More Beautiful?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Families?

Both Nikko and Auckland are superb to visit with kids.

Nikko is a very family-friendly destination. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Auckland is a very kid-friendly town. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Couples?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Nikko has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nikko and Auckland are superb places to visit.

Nikko is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Auckland is a great town to visit for backpackers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Students?

Auckland is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Nikko is not popular with students.

Is Nikko or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Nikko can get you around easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Nikko or Auckland a more walkable city?

Nikko is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Nikko is a very walkable town. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Nikko Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nikko and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nikko than in Auckland. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko than Auckland 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 Nikko.

One day in Nikko or Auckland?

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Auckland has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Nikko or Auckland?

Nikko is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nikko, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Nikko or Auckland?

Nikko is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Auckland is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Auckland. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Nikko or Auckland?

Nikko is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cosmopolitan big city of Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nikko or Auckland?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Auckland, 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 Nikko or Auckland?

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

Should I visit Nikko or Auckland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Auckland. Many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nikko is a little warmer than Auckland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nikko in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Auckland averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Auckland this time of the year. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Auckland during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nikko usually receives more rain than Aucklandin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nikko or Auckland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Auckland. Most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Auckland because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Nikko is generally around the same temperature as Aucklandin April. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 16°C (61°F), and Auckland fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Nikko often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aucklandin April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 162 hours of full sun.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Aucklandin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nikko or Auckland in the Winter?

Both Auckland and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Auckland this time of year.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. Nikko is much colder than Auckland in the winter. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Auckland fluctuates around 11°C (52°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually receives more sunshine than Auckland during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Auckland receives 141 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Auckland. In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Aucklandin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nikko or Auckland in the Spring?

Both Auckland and Nikko during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nikko is cooler than Auckland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nikko in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Auckland averages at about 14°C (58°F)in October.

In the spring, Nikko often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aucklandin October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auckland receives 192 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Aucklandin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Auckland receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Auckland and Nikko