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

Should you visit Tokyo or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Rotorua? 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 eclectic, cutting edge, and high tech 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. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food. See Tokyo travel costs.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. With stunning beauty, Rotorua attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Rotorua travel costs.

Tokyo and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or Rotorua?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tokyo than Rotorua. 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, and big city activities, while Rotorua attracts visitors for its hiking. Tokyo is famous for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also well known for The Sensō-ji Temple. Rotorua is famous for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Tokyo different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tokyo has many famous sights for visitors. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Rotorua. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Rotorua makes for a great culinary experience. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Rotorua is not a live music destination.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Rotorua is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or Rotorua?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of excellent scenery and beauty in both Tokyo and Rotorua.

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.

Rotorua is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's surrounded by striking volcanoes, beautiful lakes, and surreal geothermal springs, giving it an exotic and beautiful atmosphere.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tokyo or Rotorua.

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.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Rotorua is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Rotorua makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Rotorua, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Rotorua Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Rotorua is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. 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.

Rotorua is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Rotorua, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Tokyo or Rotorua a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Rotorua is somewhat walkable. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.

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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or Rotorua?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tokyo and Rotorua. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Rotorua. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Rotorua.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Rotorua. 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 Rotorua. 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 Rotorua 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 Rotorua?

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 Rotorua, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Tokyo or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua. 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.

Five days in Tokyo or Rotorua?

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.

Rotorua is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rotorua. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tokyo or Rotorua?

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 cultural destination of Rotorua. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tokyo and Rotorua, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Rotorua much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tokyo is in Asia and Rotorua 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 Rotorua would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rotorua 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 Rotorua.

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or Rotorua?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and Rotorua, 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 Tokyo or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and Rotorua. Many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tokyo is much warmer than Rotorua in the summer. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Rotorua fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in January.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or Rotorua in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Tokyo is a little warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tokyo in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Rotorua averages at about 16°C (61°F)in April.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or Rotorua in the Winter?

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

In January, Tokyo is generally much colder than Rotoruain July. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 5°C (42°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In January, Tokyo usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Tokyo during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty.

Tokyo is cooler than Rotorua in the spring. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Rotorua fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Tokyo