A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Koyasan for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Beijing or Koyasan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Koyasan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a peaceful, serene, and spiritual town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Beijing and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Koyasan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing. Although Beijing and Koyasan are both popular with visitors, Beijing has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beijing is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koyasan is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Beijing is more touristy than Koyasan and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Koyasan is popular for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Beijing different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Koyasan?

Beijing is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Beijing are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Koyasan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Beijing, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Koyasan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Koyasan. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Koyasan?

Beijing is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Beijing is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Families?

Both Beijing and Koyasan are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Koyasan is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Students?

Beijing is a great destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Koyasan is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Beijing has some very good public transit options. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Beijing or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Koyasan is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Koyasan is a very walkable destination. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Beijing or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Beijing than Koyasan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Koyasan 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 Beijing.

One day in Beijing or Koyasan?

Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Beijing or Koyasan?

Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koyasan has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Koyasan?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. Since Koyasan is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Beijing and Koyasan, we can see that Koyasan is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Beijing or Koyasan?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Koyasan in the Autumn?

Both Koyasan and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Koyasan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Beijing is cooler than Koyasan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Koyasan. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Koyasan. Many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Koyasan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Koyasan averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Koyasan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Koyasan. Most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Koyasan. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Beijing