A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yokohama vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yokohama or Christchurch?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Christchurch, 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.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a bright, colorful, and under-rated 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Yokohama travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a cultural, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled city. Christchurch is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Christchurch travel costs.

Yokohama and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yokohama than Christchurch. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Yokohama is very popular for its big city activities, while Christchurch attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. It is also well known for the Yokohama Chinatown. Christchurch is famous for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Yokohama different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Both Yokohama and Christchurch have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yokohama can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Is the Food Better in Yokohama or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yokohama and Christchurch.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Christchurch has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Yokohama and Christchurch.

Yokohama is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is well known for its beaches. However, Yokohama is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Christchurch and Yokohama.

Yokohama is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Christchurch is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Christchurch is a gorgeous place to visit. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.

Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Families?

Yokohama and Christchurch are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Christchurch are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Christchurch is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Christchurch is well known for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is well known for students. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yokohama is well known for its public transit. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

While Christchurch offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Yokohama or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Yokohama and Christchurch both are very good when exploring on foot.

Yokohama is very walkable. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

Christchurch is a very walkable city. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Yokohama or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Yokohama 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 Christchurch.

One day in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Each neighborhood in Yokohama has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The city of Christchurch offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Yokohama is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Christchurch, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Yokohama or Christchurch?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse big city of Yokohama. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Yokohama or Christchurch?

Yokohama is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Christchurch?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Christchurch, 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 Yokohama or Christchurch?

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

Should I visit Yokohama or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Yokohama is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yokohama in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Christchurch averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Christchurch. Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during summer. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In July, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yokohama or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch and Yokohama during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Yokohama for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Yokohama is generally a little warmer than Christchurchin April. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 18°C (64°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin April. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets more rain in October than Christchurchin April. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Christchurch. The winter months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Christchurch in the winter. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Christchurch fluctuates around 6°C (43°F)in July.

Yokohama usually receives more sunshine than Christchurch during winter. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Yokohama usually receives less rain than Christchurchin July. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Yokohama or Christchurch in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Christchurch. The activities around the city are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yokohama is a little warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yokohama in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Christchurch. In the spring, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin October. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun.

Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Yokohama