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

Should you visit Tokyo or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Tokyo or San Diego? 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 tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Tokyo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Tokyo travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See San Diego travel costs.

Tokyo and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tokyo or San Diego?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Diego than Tokyo. While Tokyo is larger than San Diego, San Diego has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Diego is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Tokyo is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Tokyo and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Tokyo is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks.

How is Tokyo different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tokyo are world-renowned. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Tokyo is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Tokyo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in San Diego is an experience not to be missed. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Music?

Tokyo is renowned for its live music scene. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. 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.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tokyo or San Diego?

Tokyo is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Tokyo or San Diego More Beautiful?

Tokyo is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Tokyo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tokyo or San Diego.

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.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Tokyo and San Diego are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tokyo. 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.

San Diego is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Tokyo or San Diego Better for Students?

For students, both Tokyo and San Diego are amazing places to visit.

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.

Students come from all over the world to visit San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Tokyo is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

Tokyo has a great 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.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Tokyo or San Diego a more walkable city?

Tokyo is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Tokyo?

How long in Tokyo or San Diego?

In either Tokyo or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Tokyo, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than San Diego 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 San Diego?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this idyllic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal 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 Tokyo or San Diego?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tokyo or San Diego?

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

San Diego is a fun place to experience. In San Diego, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tokyo or San Diego?

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the dynamic destination of San Diego. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tokyo or San Diego?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of San Diego. When comparing the sizes of Tokyo and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tokyo or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Tokyo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tokyo is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 26°C (78°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Tokyo gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. In July, Tokyo usually receives more rain than San Diego. Tokyo gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tokyo or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Tokyo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Tokyo is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tokyo averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Tokyo gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. Tokyo usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Tokyo gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tokyo or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tokyo and San Diego. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tokyo is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tokyo in January average around 5°C (42°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Tokyo usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Tokyo gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tokyo usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Diego. Tokyo gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tokyo or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tokyo as well as San Diego. Many travelers come to Tokyo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Tokyo is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Tokyo average around 14°C (58°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the spring, Tokyo often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Tokyo gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. Tokyo usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Tokyo gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Tokyo