Beijing is the pick if you want better value and highlights like 2013 Tiananmen Square attack and 60th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. Best visited April or May.

Tokyo is the better call for Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa and Meiji Shrine & Harajuku. Best visited March or April.

Beijing vs Tokyo: questions

Is Beijing or Tokyo cheaper?+

Beijing is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $130/day for Beijing and ¥23,700/day for Tokyo for a mid-range trip, before flights.

Beijing or Tokyo, which has better weather?+

Beijing is best in April, May, June, while Tokyo shines in March, April, October. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.

Should I visit Beijing or Tokyo first?+

Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.

Plan Beijing Plan Tokyo

Visiting both? How to get from Beijing to Tokyo

More comparisons

Beijing vs Kyoto Beijing vs Bangkok Tokyo vs Kyoto Osaka vs Tokyo