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

Should you visit Nikko or Perth?

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 Perth 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 tranquil, relaxing, and peaceful town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Nikko travel costs.

Perth

Perth is a easy-going, isolated, and sunny city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Perth travel costs.

Nikko and Perth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Nikko or Perth?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nikko. Although Nikko and Perth are both popular with visitors, Nikko has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nikko is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Perth is known for its nightlife and beaches. Nikko is more touristy than Perth and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. It is also home to the Toshogu Shrine. Perth is popular for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Nikko different from Perth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Perth 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 Perth?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Nikko from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Perth can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.


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

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Nikko or Perth Better for Nightlife?

Nikko
Perth

Perth is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Perth has a few options to choose from. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

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 Perth Better for Beaches?

Nikko
Perth

Perth is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Perth is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Nikko is not a beach destination.


Is Nikko or Perth Better for its Old Town?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is very popular for its historic old town. However, Perth does not have a historic old town.

Nikko has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Perth does not have a historic old town.

Is Nikko or Perth Better for Hiking?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is great for hiking. However, Perth is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. 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.

Perth is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nikko or Perth?

Nikko
Perth

If you're looking to go shopping, Nikko and Perth both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nikko. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.


Is Nikko or Perth More Beautiful?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Nikko because of it's amazing beauty. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Perth is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nikko or Perth Better for Families?

Nikko
Perth

Both Nikko and Perth 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.

Perth is a very kid-friendly town. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Nikko or Perth Better for Couples?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is very popular for romance. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Perth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.


Is Nikko or Perth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nikko
Perth

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

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Perth. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Is Nikko or Perth Better for Students?

Nikko
Perth

Perth is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Nikko is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Perth. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Nikko is not popular with students.

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

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nikko. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.


Is Nikko or Perth a more walkable city?

Nikko
Perth

Nikko is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Nikko is very walkable. 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.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Perth or Nikko?

How long in Nikko or Perth?

It's fun to spend time in either Nikko or Perth. In our opinion, Nikko has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nikko than Perth. In general, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Nikko, and 2-4 days is enough time in Perth.

Families should spend more time in Nikko than Perth. 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 Perth. 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 Perth 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.


  • How many days in Nikko or Perth? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nikko 1-4 
    Perth 2-4

One day in Nikko or Perth?

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Perth, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Perth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. 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 Perth?

Nikko is a fun place to experience. Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Perth is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Perth. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Perth?

Nikko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Perth. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Perth or Nikko?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nikko is $108, while the average daily cost in Perth is $158. 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 Nikko and Perth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nikko $48
    Perth $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nikko $96
    Perth $150
Compare Hotels in Nikko and Perth

Looking for a hotel in Nikko or Perth? 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 Nikko


Hotels in Perth


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: Nikko Hotel Prices and Perth Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nikko -
    Perth $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Perth

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

  • Ballooning in the Avon Valley plus Transfer from Perth, breakfast: $282
  • Rottnest Island Flight Transfer with Return Ferry: $222
  • Perth Airport (PER) to Perth city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $177
  • One Way Flight Transfer to or from Rottnest Island: $165
  • Airport Arrival Transfer in Perth : $112
  • Departure Private Transfer: Perth City to Perth Airport PER in Luxury Van: $107
  • Perth city to Perth Airport (PER) - Departure Private Transfer: $88
  • Departure Transfer: Perth to Perth Airport PER by Business Car: $79
  • Private Transfer from Perth Airport(PER) to Fremantle Cruise Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth Airport(PER): $74
  • Private Transfer from Fremantle Cruise Port to Perth city hotels: $74
  • Hillarys Boat Harbour: Rottnest Island Ferry Transfer: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Nikko or Perth?

Prices for flights to both Perth and Nikko 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
    Nikko $55
    Perth $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Perth

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

  • Hands on Cooking Class or Cooking Workshop Experience: $69
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $99
  • Swan River Dinner Cruise: $101
  • From Pinnacles Sunset and Stargazing Tour with Dinner: $122
  • Pinnacles Sunset Stargazing Dinner Experience Small Group Tour: $124
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset and Stargazing with Dinner: $149
  • Pinnacles Desert Sunset Dinner and Stargazing Tour: $167
  • The 10 Tastings of Perth With Locals: Private Food Tour : $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nikko $22
    Perth $14

Tours and Activities in Nikko

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nikko.

  • 1 Day Nikko Wonders Tour from Tokyo: $406
  • Bask in the beauty of winter Nikko in this unforgettable ice climbing experience: $116
  • Bike and Hike on Mt Hangetsu with Outdoor Matcha Experience: $83
  • Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura Admission Ticket: $50
  • Hidden Canyoning Adventure in Nikko : $104
  • Nikko – Beautiful Full-Day Personal and Private Tour: $395
  • Nikko Cycling Tour with Local Guide: $269
  • Nikko Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide: $73
  • Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $152
  • Nikko Guided Cycling Tour with a Local Monk: $269
  • Nikko Private Custom Tour with Local Guide: $207
  • Nikko Private Customizable Full Day Tour: $266

Tours and Activities in Perth

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Perth.

  • Full Moon Yoga Hiking Experience Mundaring: $47
  • 1 Day Margaret River Sightseeing Tour from Perth: $133
  • 1 Hour Quad Bike Tours, only 30 minutes from Perth: $87
  • 2 Hour Whale-Watching Cruise from Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 2 Hours Culture and Street Art Tour in Fremantle: $44
  • 2 hour whale watching experience departing Hillarys Boat Harbour: $50
  • 6 Hours Pinnacles Express Tour : $128
  • Adventure Rottnest Tour with Ferry & Adventure Cruise: $110
  • Bespoke Perth City and Surrounds Day Tour: $229
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Boom-and-Bust: self-guided historical walking tour of Perth: $17
  • Canning River Half-Day Kayak Wildlife Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nikko $15
    Perth $7.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Perth

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Perth:

  • Swan Valley Gin Distillery Tasting : $13
  • Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tasting with Transportation: $63
  • Swan Valley: Half-Day Wine Tour From Perth: $69
  • Swan Valley Half-Day Wine Tour - Small Group Experience: $70
  • Swan Valley Half Day Wine Tour from Perth: $70
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Half Day Afternoon: $70
  • Half-Day Swan Valley Wine Tour with Tastings - From Perth: $79
  • Swan Valley: Out for the Afternoon Wine Tasting with Lunch: $83
  • Swan Valley: Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $99
  • Swan Valley Wine Tour - Full Day: $100
  • Small-Group Bickley Valley Wine Tour: $106
  • From Swan Valley Winery & Brewery Day Tour With Lunch: $109


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nikko and Perth, we can see that Perth 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 Perth 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 Perth would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Perth 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 Perth Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nikko or Perth?

Perth has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Nikko and Perth, 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 Perth?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth 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 Perth in the Summer?

Both Perth and Nikko are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Perth for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Nikko is around the same temperature as Perth in the summer. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Perth fluctuates around 25°C (76°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Perth. Nikko usually receives less sunshine than Perth during summer. Nikko gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 331 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. In July, Nikko usually receives more rain than Perthin January. Nikko gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Perth receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Nikko 25°C (77°F) 
    Perth 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Perth in the Autumn?

Both Perth and Nikko during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Perth because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Nikko is cooler than Perth. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nikko in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Perth averages at about 19°C (67°F)in April.

In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Perthin April. Nikko gets 167 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 219 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. Nikko usually gets more rain in October than Perthin April. Nikko gets 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Perth receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Nikko 16°C (61°F) 
    Perth 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Perth in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nikko and Perth. 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 Perth this time of year.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. In January, Nikko is generally much colder than Perthin July. Daily temperatures in Nikko average around 3°C (37°F), and Perth fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Nikko, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nikko usually receives more sunshine than Perth during winter. Nikko gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Perth receives 166 hours of full sun in the winter.

Perth receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Nikko usually receives less rain than Perthin July. Nikko gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Perth receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Nikko 3°C (37°F) 
    Perth 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Nikko or Perth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nikko as well as Perth. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Perth for the beaches.

Nikko is cooler than Perth in the spring. The daily temperature in Nikko averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Perth fluctuates around 17°C (62°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. In the spring, Nikko often gets less sunshine than Perthin October. Nikko gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Perth receives 273 hours of full sun.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nikko usually gets more rain in April than Perthin October. Nikko gets 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Perth receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Nikko 13°C (55°F) 
    Perth 17°C (62°F)

Typical Weather for Perth and Nikko

Nikko Perth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 26 mm (1 in) 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 25°C (77°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 9 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 206 mm (8.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 195 mm (7.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 201 mm (7.9 in) 15°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 117 mm (4.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 32 mm (1.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)