A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dewa Sanzan vs. Fraser Island for Couples, Hiking, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a religious, sacred, and remote religious site. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a stunning, serene, and breathtaking island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fraser Island than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fraser Island is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its museums and shopping. Fraser Island is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is popular for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Also, Fraser Island is famous for the pinnacles. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Dewa Sanzan different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

Dewa Sanzan is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Dewa Sanzan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

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 Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Dewa Sanzan. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Neither Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island offer decent nightlife.

Dewa Sanzan doesn't offer many options. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fraser Island. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fraser Island is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Fraser Island is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fraser Island is a very popular vacation 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).

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fraser Island. 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 the Shopping Better in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

Dewa Sanzan is not a good place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Fraser Island is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fraser Island is very family-friendly. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly religious site. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Fraser Island is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Fraser Island 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a good religious site for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fraser Island is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Fraser Island. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

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

Dewa Sanzan is a moderate religious site 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 Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

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 Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not a very walkable religious site. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

Fraser Island is generally not very walkable. 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 Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting? and Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Dewa Sanzan?

How long in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Fraser Island than Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan 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.

One day in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the traditional destination of Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the serene island of Fraser Island. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Fraser Island. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the remote destination of Dewa Sanzan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This religious site 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the idyllic island of Fraser Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island?

You'll find museums around the religious site of Dewa Sanzan. 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Fraser Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island, we can see that Fraser Island is more expensive. And not only is Dewa Sanzan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan.

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

When is the best time to visit Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dewa Sanzan as well as Fraser Island. Many visitors come to Dewa Sanzan in the summer for the hiking. Also, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dewa Sanzan is around the same temperature as Fraser Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 26°C (78°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Fraser Island. Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Dewa Sanzan usually gets more rain in July than Fraser Islandin January. Dewa Sanzan gets 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

Both Fraser Island and Dewa Sanzan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking trails during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Fraser Island because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Fraser Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dewa Sanzan in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 22°C (72°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. In October, Dewa Sanzan usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin April. Dewa Sanzan gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island in the Winter?

Both Fraser Island and Dewa Sanzan during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Fraser Island this time of year.

The weather in Dewa Sanzan can be very cold. In January, Dewa Sanzan is generally much colder than Fraser Islandin July. Daily temperatures in Dewa Sanzan average around -1°C (30°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. Dewa Sanzan usually gets more rain in January than Fraser Islandin July. Dewa Sanzan gets 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Fraser Island in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dewa Sanzan and Fraser Island. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fraser Island for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Fraser Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 21°C (71°F)in October.

In April, Dewa Sanzan usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin October. Dewa Sanzan gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Dewa Sanzan