A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Byron Bay for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a relaxing, natural, and beautiful national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a Bohemian, relaxed, and mellow town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Byron Bay. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay are popular destinations, Byron Bay has more sights and attractions for tourists. Byron Bay is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its hiking. Byron Bay is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals. It is also well known for Cape Byron Lighthouse. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Byron Bay and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay.

While most people don't head to Chichibu-Tama-Kai specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Byron Bay offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.


Is the Food Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Byron Bay. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Byron Bay for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

In Byron Bay, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Byron Bay is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Byron Bay offers some nice hiking trails. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly national park. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly national park. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Byron Bay is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Byron Bay is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Byron Bay is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Public transit is generally limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Byron Bay

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable national park. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Byron Bay is a somewhat walkable national park. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting? and Is Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

Couples should spend more time in Byron Bay than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Byron Bay that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Byron Bay than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Byron Bay.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Byron Bay 3-7

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

You'll find around the national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Byron Bay, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.


A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the relaxed town of Byron Bay, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the natural national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With shopping and nightlife around the vegan-friendly destination of Byron Bay, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Byron Bay is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Byron Bay or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $75, while the average daily cost in Byron Bay is $146. 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $36
    Byron Bay $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $72
    Byron Bay $140
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay? 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Hotels in Byron Bay


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: Byron Bay Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $22
    Byron Bay $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Byron Bay

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Byron Bay:

  • Byron Bay Tandem Skydive with Transfer Options: $285

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Prices for flights to both Byron Bay and Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $26
    Byron Bay $50

Typical Food Prices in Byron Bay

Some typical examples of dining costs in Byron Bay are as follows:


  • Dinner at Olivo (for 2)
    $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.69
    Byron Bay $37

Typical Entertainment Prices in Byron Bay

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


  • Buddha Gardens Spa (for 2)
    $130
  • Surf Lesson
    $45

Tours and Activities in Byron Bay

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

  • 3-Hour Small-Group Byron Bay Tour: $69
  • Beyond Byron Hinterland Tour: $138
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $48
  • Broken Head Aboriginal Tour: $47
  • Byron Bay Day Tour With Chinese Speaking Guide: $108
  • Byron Bay Dolphin Tour - Ocean Safari: $66
  • Byron Bay Half-Day Tour: $67
  • Byron Bay Hinterland Tour Including Rainforest Walk to Minyon Falls: $117
  • Byron Bay Hinterland: National Park and Waterfalls Tour: $115
  • Byron Bay Lighthouse and Hinterland Tour: $69
  • Byron Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $88
  • Byron Bay Wild Koala Tour: $81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.94
    Byron Bay $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Byron Bay

Also in Byron Bay, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour: $101
  • Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session : $103
  • Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch: $133
  • Full Barrel Brewery and Distillery tour: $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay, we can see that Byron Bay is more expensive. And not only is Chichibu-Tama-Kai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Chichibu-Tama-Kai is in Asia and Byron Bay is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Chichibu-Tama-Kai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Byron Bay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Byron Bay than you might in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive? and Is Byron Bay Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Byron Bay is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chichibu-Tama-Kai has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay in the Summer?

Both Byron Bay and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Byron Bay this time of year.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Byron Bay. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

Byron Bay gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Byron Bayin January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Byron Bay 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Byron Bay. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Byron Bay for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally cooler than Byron Bayin April. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Byron Bay fluctuates around 20°C (69°F).

Byron Bay receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Byron Bayin April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Byron Bay 20°C (69°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Byron Bay. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Byron Bay in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Byron Bay in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Byron Bay fluctuates around 14°C (58°F)in July.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in January than Byron Bayin July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Byron Bay 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Byron Bay in the Spring?

Both Byron Bay and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Byron Bay for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is cooler than Byron Bay. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Byron Bay averages at about 19°C (67°F)in October.

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Byron Bayin October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Byron Bay receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Byron Bay 19°C (67°F)

Typical Weather for Byron Bay and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Byron Bay
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) 23°C (74°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 133 mm (5.2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 17°C (63°F) 32 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)


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