A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tokyo vs. Dunedin for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tokyo or Dunedin?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Dunedin? 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.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high energy, vibrant, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Tokyo travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a hilly, cultural, and vibrant city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Dunedin travel costs.

Tokyo and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Dunedin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tokyo is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dunedin attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Tokyo is more touristy than Dunedin and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Dunedin is famous for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Tokyo different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tokyo on the map. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Many visitors head to Dunedin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Is the Food Better in Tokyo or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Tokyo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Tokyo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Many people head to Dunedin for the nightlife scene. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Music?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Dunedin is not a live music destination.

In Tokyo you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Dunedin is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Dunedin is a popular place for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Dunedin is a good option for a beach vacation. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Dunedin is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Dunedin is a good destination for hiking. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Tokyo is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dunedin. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin More Beautiful?

Tokyo is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Tokyo attracts visitors from all around. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Families?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Tokyo is a very family-friendly destination. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Dunedin is a very family-friendly destination. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Tokyo is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Students?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Dunedin is very popular with students. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Tokyo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

While Dunedin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Is Tokyo or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Dunedin is very walkable. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Dunedin. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Dunedin 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 Tokyo.

One day in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Dunedin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tokyo or Dunedin?

Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dunedin. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Tokyo or Dunedin?

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dunedin is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dunedin. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. Because Tokyo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find food and shopping around the hilly destination of Dunedin. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Dunedin?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Dunedin. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Dunedin, 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.