A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Nelson for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Nelson, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Shiretoko National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Shiretoko National Park travel costs.

Nelson

Nelson is a natural, beautiful, and outdoorsy city. With stunning beauty, Nelson attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Nelson travel costs.

Shiretoko National Park and Nelson: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nelson than Shiretoko National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nelson is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its stunning national parks, beautiful coastline, and outdoor adventures. Also, Nelson is famous for Abel Tasman National Park. Shiretoko National Park is well known for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Nelson?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nelson. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Nelson is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for nightlife.

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.

Shiretoko National Park doesn't offer many options. Peaceful evenings and relaxing in nature are the best way to pass the time here, not socializing in a bar.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Beaches?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Nelson are among the best in the world. 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.

Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Shiretoko National Park and Nelson are both places where visitors can find first-rate hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Shiretoko National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Nelson to go shopping. There are weekly markets in the area and a variety of retail shops where you can pick up anything you might need.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson More Beautiful?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Shiretoko National Park and Nelson.

With stunning beauty, Shiretoko National Park attracts visitors from all around. The park is among the most beautiful in Japan. It has a scenic natural setting that is particularly nice during the winter season.

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


Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Nelson is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for romance.

Nelson has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nelson is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels in the area as well as outdoor activities and adventure sports that backpackers will love.

Shiretoko National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.


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

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Nelson a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Nelson

Nelson is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its walkability.

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

Shiretoko National Park is somewhat walkable. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Nelson Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nelson or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

In either Shiretoko National Park or Nelson, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nelson than Shiretoko National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nelson.

Families should spend more time in Nelson than Shiretoko National Park. 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 Shiretoko National Park. 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 Shiretoko 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 Nelson.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Nelson 3-5

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Shiretoko 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the adventure-filled city of Nelson. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Shiretoko National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Nelson is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Nelson is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

A week in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nelson. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Nelson or Shiretoko National Park?

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

  • Shiretoko National Park Prices
    Japan Prices
    Nelson Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Shiretoko National Park $96
    Nelson $114

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $96, while the average daily cost in Nelson is $114. 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 Shiretoko National Park and Nelson in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $34
    Nelson $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $68
    Nelson $82
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Nelson

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Nelson? 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 Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Nelson


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: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices and Nelson Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $27
    Nelson $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Nelson?

Prices for flights to both Nelson and Shiretoko National Park 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
    Shiretoko National Park $45
    Nelson $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Nelson $23

Tours and Activities in Nelson

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Nelson are as follows:

  • Nelson City Walking Tour - Guided: $28
  • Cable Bay Adventure Park: E-bike hire: $55
  • Abel Tasman Vista Cruise: $62
  • Cable Bay Adventure Park Skywire Experience: $64
  • Skywire Adventure at Cable Bay, Nelson: $65
  • Nelson to Mapua: Full-Day Cycling Self-Guided Adventure: $69
  • Self-Guided Nelson to Mapua Cycle Adventure: $71
  • Magical Mapua Charms in off-summer Season Selfguided Cycle Tour: $74
  • Magical Mapua Self Guided One Day Cycle Tour: $74
  • Half Day Guided Mountain Biking Adventure in Nelson: $74
  • Great Taste Beer Tour by Bicycle (Self-guided): $77
  • Guided Quad Biking Tour Through Forest and Farmland: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $11
    Nelson $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nelson

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nelson:

  • Self-guided E-bike cycle tour with private wine tasting : $116
  • Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $231


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

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