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

Should you visit Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a park-filled, snowy, and vibrant 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 museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Sapporo travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a remote, rugged, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come to Mount Aspiring National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
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 Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sapporo. Although Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Sapporo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sapporo is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sapporo is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also home to Odori Park. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Sapporo 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 Sapporo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Skiing?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a skiing destination.

People head to Sapporo specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sapporo. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

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 Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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


Is Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

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

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

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

Sapporo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mount Aspiring National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sapporo. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Both Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Sapporo is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.


Is Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Sapporo is a great city to visit as a student. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

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

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can get you to some places easily. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Sapporo
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very walkable city. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Sapporo 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 Sapporo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sapporo, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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

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


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

One day in Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sapporo is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sapporo. 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 Sapporo has to offer.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

Five days in Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sapporo is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Sapporo or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find shopping and museums around the park-filled city of Sapporo. It offers something for everyone. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours 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 Sapporo?

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

  • Sapporo Prices
    Japan Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sapporo $132
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Sapporo is $132, 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 Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sapporo $65
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sapporo $130
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Sapporo and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sapporo 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 Sapporo


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sapporo $16
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sapporo

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

  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $93
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo City Hotels to Otaru Cruise Port: $113
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $132
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140
  • Private Departure Transfer : Sapporo City to New Chitose Airport: $237
  • Private Transfer from Muroran Cruise Port to Sapporo Airport(CTS): $274
  • New Chitose Airport (CTS) Private Transfer: $284

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

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Sapporo 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
    Sapporo $54
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

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

  • Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Host Kanae: $72
  • Japanese Cooking Class in the Heart of Sapporo with Sakura: $72
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local: $82
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $97
  • Hands-on Japanese Home Cooking Class in Sapporo with Noriko: $108
  • Sapporo Night Food Tour: 3 Hidden Restaurants with a Foodie Guide: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sapporo $17
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

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

  • JR Tower Observatory Admission Ticket: $4.33
  • Sapporo TV Tower Admission Ticket: $6.76
  • Historical Village of Hokkaido Entry Ticket: $6.76
  • JR Tower Observation Deck T38 Ticket in Hokkaido: $9.00
  • Sapporo Highlights: Golden Route Morning Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Sapporo Highlights: Golden Route Morning Walking Tour: $31
  • Hokkaido Shrine Tour with Rituals, History & Sweets: $43
  • Tour of the Historic Red Brick Government Office: $50
  • Sapporo Afternoon Walking Tour 2h 30mins: $55
  • Beer Museum Tour with Tasting of Local Brews: $57
  • Sapporo Walking Tour: $61
  • Authentic Nijo Market Seafood Lunch & History Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sapporo $8.26
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07

Sample the Local Flavors in Sapporo

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

  • Sapporo Tour in the Port City of Otaru and Local beer brewery: $174
  • 1-Day Tour The port city of Otaru & Local Brewery: $178


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