A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Yaeyama Islands for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Yaeyama Islands 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a idyllic, tropical, and pristine archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beijing and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beijing than Yaeyama Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beijing is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Beijing different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Beijing that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

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

Beijing is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Beijing offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

Yaeyama Islands is a world class resort vacation destination. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Yaeyama Islands is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Yaeyama Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is a well-known place for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Beijing is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Yaeyama Islands is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

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 Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Beijing. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands Better for Students?

Beijing is a well-known place for students. However, Yaeyama Islands 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.

Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

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

Beijing is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Beijing can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Beijing or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Beijing and Yaeyama Islands both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Beijing is generally not very walkable. 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.

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable city. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Beijing or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Yaeyama Islands because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yaeyama Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

Beijing is a big city with plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Yaeyama Islands. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Beijing or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Yaeyama Islands. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beijing usually receives around the same amount of rain as Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Yaeyama Islands. 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 Yaeyama Islands in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Beijing is generally much colder than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. Beijing is much colder than Yaeyama Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Beijing during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Beijing is much colder than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Beijing