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Shanghai vs Tokyo
Can't choose between Shanghai and Tokyo? Look at cost, timing, and the kind of trip you want. If money is the main thing, Shanghai is cheaper.
April, May, October
Best time to visit
March, April, October
$130cheaper
Typical cost / day
¥23,700
USD
Currency
JPY
4 days
Ideal length
5 days
18 spots
Live highlights
14 spots
Top things to do in Shanghai
- Jin Jiang Tower
- Shanghai Jinjiang Hotel
- Middle Huaihai Road station
- Saint Nicholas' Church, Shanghai
- Former Residence of Sun Yat-Sen (Shanghai)
Top things to do in Tokyo
- Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
- Meiji Shrine & Harajuku
- teamLab Planets digital art museum
- Imperial Palace East Gardens
- Tsukiji Outer Market food crawl
So, Shanghai or Tokyo?
Shanghai vs Tokyo: questions
Is Shanghai or Tokyo cheaper?+
Shanghai is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $130/day for Shanghai and ¥23,700/day for Tokyo for a mid-range trip, before flights.
Shanghai or Tokyo, which has better weather?+
Shanghai is best in April, May, October, while Tokyo shines in March, April, October. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.
Should I visit Shanghai or Tokyo first?+
Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.