Compare · Prices checked 10 Oct 2026

Is China cheaper than Japan?

For a mid-range trip, China costs about 43% less on the ground than Japan, based on the prices we have checked.

China

Cheaper

Shanghai, then Beijing

$2,510

$120 a day on the ground · per person

Japan

Tokyo, then Yokohama

$2,930

$210 a day on the ground · per person

Per personChinaJapanDifference
Flights$1,105$813China +$292
Hotels$746$1,584Japan +$838
Food & drink$260$353Japan +$93
Local transport$52$70Japan +$18
Intercity trains$85$5China +$80
Sights & tickets$50$50Same
eSIM data$49$12China +$37
Travel insurance$22$22Same
Visa, entry fees & taxes$140$25China +$115
Total$2,510$2,930Japan +$420

The cheaper amount on each line is in bold. Flights leave from the usual airport for your passport. Same travel month for both countries.

Beyond the price

ChinaJapan
EntryVisa-free for short stays for UK, Canadian and Australian passports. US citizens need a visa or 240-hour transit.Visa-free short stays for US, UK, Canadian and Australian passports.
PayingAlipay and WeChat Pay almost everywhere. Set them up before you fly.Cards widely accepted. Cash still common in small places.
Mobile dataGoogle, WhatsApp and Instagram are blocked on local networks. Use a travel eSIM.No blocked apps. Any eSIM works.
Getting aroundHigh-speed trains are frequent. Book with your passport details.The Shinkansen is fast but costs more per kilometre.
LanguageLess English outside big hotels. A translation app helps.Signs in English on most transport.
CrowdsAvoid Golden Week (early October) and Spring Festival.Avoid cherry blossom season and Golden Week.