A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Yamaguchi for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bali or Yamaguchi?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Yamaguchi can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a frequented, spiritual, and cultural island. Bali is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Bali travel costs.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a serene, tranquil, and scenic town. The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Bali and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bali or Yamaguchi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bali than Yamaguchi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bali is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums and attractions. Bali is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. It is also home to Pura Lempuyang. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Bali different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Yamaguchi?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Yamaguchi specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bali or Yamaguchi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Bali is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yamaguchi makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Resorts?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Bali offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.


Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Bali specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Beaches?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Bali are among the best in the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.


Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Yamaguchi?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi More Beautiful?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Bali is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Yamaguchi is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bali. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.


Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Bali has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Couples visit Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Bali is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bali, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Yamaguchi is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Is Bali or Yamaguchi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Both Bali and Yamaguchi offer good public transit options.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Yamaguchi has some public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.


Is Bali or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Bali
Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Yamaguchi is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Bali?

How long in Bali or Yamaguchi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bali or Yamaguchi to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bali than Yamaguchi because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-2 days is enough time in Yamaguchi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Yamaguchi 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 Bali.


  • How many days in Bali or Yamaguchi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bali 7-14 
    Yamaguchi 1-2

One day in Bali or Yamaguchi?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Bali. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Yamaguchi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bali or Yamaguchi?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the stunning destination of Bali. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Yamaguchi is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Bali or Yamaguchi?

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical island of Bali. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and food around the serene destination of Yamaguchi. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Yamaguchi?

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

The tranquil town of Yamaguchi offers food and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.


Which place is cheaper, Yamaguchi or Bali?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bali is $85, while the average daily cost in Yamaguchi is $100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bali and Yamaguchi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bali $40
    Yamaguchi $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bali $80
    Yamaguchi $94
Compare Hotels in Bali and Yamaguchi

Looking for a hotel in Bali or Yamaguchi? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bali


Hotels in Yamaguchi


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bali Hotel Prices and Yamaguchi Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bali $8.68
    Yamaguchi $21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bali

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Bali:


  • Motorbike Rental
    $2.98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bali

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bali:

  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Denpasar HTL-APT(DPS) : $8.88
  • Traditional Balinese Massage with Hotel Transfer: $50
  • Ride Bali ATV Adventure Ticket And Transfer: $34
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Bali Airport: $32
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Denpasar International Airport to Nusa Dua Area: $15
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Bali Airport to Hotel: $32
  • Nusa Dua Departure transfer to Bali Airport International (DPS): $13
  • LuxMe Bali Four Hands massage with Hotel Transfer: $58
  • Denpasar Departure Transfer: Hotel to Airport: $25
  • Bali Water Sport : Sea Walker,Donut Boat and Banana Boat with Hotel Transfers: $72
  • Bali Spiritual: Blessing Ceremony, Pristine Nature and Transfer: $115
  • Bali Parasailing Adventure,Banana Boat,Jet Ski and Donut Boat with Transfers: $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yamaguchi

Also for Yamaguchi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer: $399

Is it cheaper to fly into Bali or Yamaguchi?

Prices for flights to both Yamaguchi and Bali change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bali $34
    Yamaguchi $40
Typical Food Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bali are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $1.19
  • Lunch for Two
    $13
  • Bali Cafe for Two
    $26
  • Lunch for Two
    $7.75
  • Lunch for 2
    $8.59
  • Dinner for 2
    $9.42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bali

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bali.

  • Romantic Seafood Dinner under sunset jimbaran Beach: $36
  • Romantic Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran: $40
  • South Bali Beach Tour, Uluwatu Sunset Kecak Fire Dance & Seafood Barbeque Dinner: $50
  • Kekeb Cooking Class at Nusa Dua: $55
  • Bali Famous Beach, Kecak Dance, Uluwatu Temple, Sunset, Dinner: $65
  • Bali Street Food Tour: $65
  • Sidemen Cooking Class: $77
  • Pure Bali Village Experience, Cooking & Jamu Class+VIP Transfer: $89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yamaguchi

For Yamaguchi, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Yamaguchi ;Healthy tea drinking ; dinner: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bali $10
    Yamaguchi $8.69
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bali are as follows:


  • Spa for Two
    $52
  • Snorkelling Trip
    $12
  • Cooking School
    $27

Tours and Activities in Bali

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bali are as follows:

  • Bali Telaga Waja White Water Rafting Adventure : $55
  • Legendary Scenic Spots Of Nusa Penida Private Guided Day Tour: $37
  • Sightseeing to Ulundanu temple, banyumala waterfall & Tanah lot: $57
  • Ubud Bali ATV Quad Bike Adventure: $45
  • 3-Days Lombok,Gili island Tour Hopping around departure from Bali island: $300
  • 5 Hours Bali Blue Lagoon Snorkeling Tour Including Tanjung Jepun: $59
  • Alas Harum Bali Cretya Tegalalang Rice Terrace Ubud Swing Ticket: $25
  • Amazing Private Tour: Lempuyang temple, Tirta gangga, Tukad cepung waterfall: $60
  • Bali ATV Adventure: $61
  • Bali ATV Quad Bike Adventure and Snorkeling Tour: $99
  • Bali Benoa Shore Excursion for Cruise's Passenger - All Inclusive: $49
  • Bali Instagram Tour : The Most Popular Spots In Bali: $62

Tours and Activities in Yamaguchi

For Yamaguchi, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kiku Plan - Wagashi making and tea ceremony experience -: $24
  • Fuji Plan - Kimono Experience and City Walk -: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bali $3.07
    Yamaguchi $8.21


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

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


Which is Bigger, Bali or Yamaguchi?

Bali has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Yamaguchi, 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 Bali or Yamaguchi?

Yamaguchi has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bali experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bali or Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Bali during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bali because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bali is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bali in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in July than Yamaguchi. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Bali or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bali and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bali year-round. Also, many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bali is generally a little warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 27°C (81°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In October, Bali usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Bali.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Bali or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bali as well as Yamaguchi. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Bali is much warmer than Yamaguchi in the winter. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Bali usually gets more rain in January than Yamaguchi. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bali 26°C (79°F) 
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Bali or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

Both Yamaguchi and Bali are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bali throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bali is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bali in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. In April, Bali usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Bali is April to September.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Bali

Bali Yamaguchi
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 27°C (81°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 50 mm (2 in) 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 50 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)