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

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

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 Fraser Island 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.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a breathtaking, idyllic, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fraser Island. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island are popular destinations, Fraser Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fraser Island is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo. Fraser Island is famous for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for the pinnacles.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.


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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fraser Island. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Neither Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Chichibu-Tama-Kai Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

People don't go to Fraser Island for the nightlife. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

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

Fraser Island is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island are destinations which offer very good hiking.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. 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.

Fraser Island is a popular spot for hiking. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island are very good to visit with kids.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Fraser Island is a very kid-friendly national park. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

Fraser Island is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

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

Fraser Island is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

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 Fraser Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a moderate national park for its public transit. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Fraser Island

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island 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.

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable national park. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

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

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

In either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fraser Island than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fraser Island.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Fraser Island 3-5

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With around the destination of Fraser Island, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With around the serene island of Fraser Island, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

With around the stunning destination of Fraser Island, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this island 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 Fraser Island?

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Fraser Island is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island is $217. 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 Fraser Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $36
    Fraser Island $107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $72
    Fraser Island $214
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island? 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 Fraser Island


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $22
    Fraser Island $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

Prices for flights to both Fraser Island 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
    Fraser Island $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.69
    Fraser Island $47

Tours and Activities in Fraser Island

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

  • 2 Hours Hervey Bay Funset Cruise: $54
  • Discovery K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour - From Noosa: $205
  • Discovery K'gari (Fraser Island) Day Tour - From Rainbow Beach: $192
  • Hervey Bay Ultimate Whale Watching Cruise: $75
  • Hervey Bay Whale Watching Cruise: $102
  • Hervey Bay to K'gari/Fraser Island 2-Day Tour (Beach House): $358
  • Hervey Bay: Best Value Half Day Whale Watching Cruise : $81
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) All Inclusive Day Tour: $188
  • K'gari (Fraser Island) Full-Day Tour From Noosa: $202
  • K'gari Island Cruise Tour with Whale Search and Lunch - 5 hours: $110
  • Remote Fraser Island Experience: $171
  • Remote K'gari (Fraser Island) & Whale Experience: $171

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.94
    Fraser Island $22


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island, we can see that Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Fraser Island 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 Fraser Island in the Summer?

Both Fraser Island and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fraser Island for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Fraser Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 26°C (78°F)in January.

Fraser Island 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 less rain in July than Fraser Islandin January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Fraser Island 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Fraser Island. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fraser Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally cooler than Fraser Islandin April. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Fraser Island 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Fraser Island. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the cuisine during these months.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can get quite cold in the winter. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Fraser Island in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in January than Fraser Islandin July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Fraser Island 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Fraser Island in the Spring?

Both Fraser Island and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fraser Island because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Fraser Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 21°C (71°F)in October.

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Fraser Island 21°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Fraser Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) 26°C (78°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 25°C (78°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (76°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 19°C (65°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)