A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Noosa Heads for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

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 Noosa Heads 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 peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a scenic, natural, and charming coastal town. With plenty of 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 Noosa Heads: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Noosa Heads. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads are popular destinations, Noosa Heads has more sights and attractions for tourists. Noosa Heads is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and surfing culture. It is also well known for Noosa Main Beach. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Noosa Heads?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

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

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.

Noosa Heads offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. As a holiday destination, it is all about the beaches and laid back natural beauty. You'll find little in the form of museums, but do make your way to Laguna Lookout to take in the view.


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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Noosa Heads. The scenic setting means that there are peaceful restaurants that look out on the sea or river. Many restaurants use local ingredients from nearby farms. Farm-to-table is a popular concept here, and there are many sustainable seafood dishes that use locally caught fish.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Nightlife?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a coastal town with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Noosa Heads has a few options to choose from. There are a number of pubs and bars that have opened around town. You'll find cocktail lounges, beer gardens, an plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Beaches?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

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

Noosa Heads is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Visitors come for the laid back vibe and the spectacular beaches. For swimming, head to Noosa Main Beach. There's also surfing at the Noosa World Surfing Reserve and a peaceful and natural setting at Noosa National park.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads are destinations which offer great 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.

Noosa Heads is a popular spot for hiking. There are hiking trails that take in the coastal views or you can head inland and wander through wooded landscapes. Some of the best hiking trails are found at Noosa National Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a coastal town with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Noosa Heads. The main shopping street through town is Hastings Street. It's where you'll find beachside boutiques, impressive art galleries, as well as international brands.

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

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads are great 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.

Noosa Heads is a very kid-friendly national park. There are playgrounds and green space where you can picnic at the Noosa Villages. Kids will also enjoy taking ferry rides and exploring Noosa National Park. Also nearby is the impressive K'Gari (Fraser Island).


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads 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.

Noosa Heads is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with romantic beaches and fun outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. There are plenty of places to hike and explore, as well as sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. You can also unwind with a spa day or sip wine by the sea.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

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

Noosa Heads is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The laid back atmosphere makes this a long running stop for backpackers to Australia. There are a number of hostels to choose from and many ways to explore nature.

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 Noosa Heads Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Noosa Heads is a coastal town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Noosa Heads offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a ferry that travels along the river. There are also buses that travel to local destinations.

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.


Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Noosa Heads

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads are great when it comes to walkability.

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

Noosa Heads is a very walkable national park. It's fun to explore the town and surrounding areas on foot. There are walking and bike paths throughout.

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

Should I spend more time in Noosa Heads or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

It's fun to spend time in either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Noosa Heads due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Noosa Heads.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads.


  • How many days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2 
    Noosa Heads 2-4

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the relaxing national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Noosa Heads is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Noosa Heads?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the peaceful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Noosa Heads is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.


Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

The natural national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Noosa Heads is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Noosa Heads is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This coastal town 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia, and The Best Walking Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads is $116. 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 Noosa Heads in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $36
    Noosa Heads $61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $72
    Noosa Heads $122
Compare Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads

Looking for a hotel in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads? 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 Noosa Heads


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: Noosa Heads Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $22
    Noosa Heads $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Noosa Heads

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

  • Premium Airport/ Cruise Terminal Transfers: $248
  • Private Transfer from Sunshine Coast Airport to Hotels 11 pax: $230
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (8pax): $136
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (6pax): $122
  • Private Transfer to or from Sunshine Coast Airport (MCY): $112
  • Private Transfers from Sunshine Coast Airport to Noosa (2pax): $101
  • Private Morning Transfer From Noosa to Rainbow Beach: $94
  • Australia Zoo Transfer from Noosa and Sunshine Coast: $83
  • Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer: Mooloolaba Sunshine Coast& Noosa : $33
  • Eumundi Markets Bus Transfer from Noosa, Noosaville & Mooloolaba: $33
  • Sunshine Coast Airport Transfers: $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

Prices for flights to both Noosa Heads 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
    Noosa Heads $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Noosa Heads

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

  • Cooking Classes on Witta Maleny Sunshine Coast: $126

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.69
    Noosa Heads $42

Typical Entertainment Prices in Noosa Heads

For Noosa Heads, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Surf Lesson
    $45
  • Sea Kayak Tour (for 2)
    $89
  • Sunset Cruise (for 2)
    $14

Tours and Activities in Noosa Heads

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Noosa Heads.

  • 1 Hour Tour Mooloolaba Sunset Cruise: $24
  • 2-Hour Guided Whale Watching Tour at Noosa: $55
  • 3-Hour Noosa Explorer e-Bike Tour: $105
  • Adventure Whale Watching Tour Mooloolaba: $59
  • Aquaduck Sunshine Coast - 1hr Mooloolaba Amphibious Tour: $35
  • Australia Zoo, Glass House Mountains Tour Combo: $202
  • Brisbane Airport and Cruise Terminal to Sunshine Coast 11 pax: $275
  • Bushtucker Cruise: $52
  • Dolphin watching Experience in Noosa Heads: $55
  • Epic Kayak With Dolphins & Wildlife - 4WD Beach Adventure Noosa: $112
  • Everglades Explorer - Noosa Everglades Tour: $104
  • Fliteboard eFoil Group Experience in Noosa: $157

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.94
    Noosa Heads $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Noosa Heads

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

  • Eumundi Market and Distillery Experience Market Days Wednesday & Saturday: $98
  • Sunshine Coast Brewery Tour with Lunch: $171
  • Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour - with 2 course lunch included: $192
  • Noosa Hinterland Tour with Gourmet Lunch, Wine Tasting & Everglades Lake: $202
  • Sunshine Coast Private Gourmet Food and Wine Tour: $251


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



When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads?

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

Both Noosa Heads and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Noosa Heads this time of year.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a little warmer than Noosa Heads. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 20°C (67°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Noosa Heads. It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Noosa Headsin January. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F) 
    Noosa Heads 20°C (67°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads in the Autumn?

Both Noosa Heads and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Noosa Heads 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 a little warmer than Noosa Headsin April. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in October than Noosa Headsin April. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F) 
    Noosa Heads 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Noosa Heads. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Noosa Heads 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 Noosa Heads in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Noosa Heads fluctuates around 7°C (44°F)in July.

In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Noosa Headsin July. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 57 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F) 
    Noosa Heads 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Noosa Heads in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Noosa Heads. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Noosa Heads for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Noosa Heads. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Noosa Heads averages at about 14°C (57°F)in October.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in April than Noosa Headsin October. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Noosa Heads receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F) 
    Noosa Heads 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Noosa Heads and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai Noosa Heads
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in) 20°C (67°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in) 11°C (51°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Dec 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)