A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park vs. Alice Springs for Hiking, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

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

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a outdoorsy, charming, and friendly town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Fuji
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alice Springs. Although Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs are popular destinations, Alice Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alice Springs is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park attracts visitors for its museums & sights and impressive beauty. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is famous for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Alice Springs is famous for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. It is also well known for Alice Springs Desert Park.

How is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alice Springs and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park for its historical sights. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Alice Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.


Is the Food Better in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Alice Springs is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Alice Springs has a few options to choose from. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

If you're looking to go hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs both have terrific trails.

People visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Many people visit Alice Springs specifically for its hiking. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.


Is the Shopping Better in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Alice Springs has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

Alice Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

With fun activities for couples, both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs make for a excellent place to visit.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.


Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

For backpackers, both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Alice Springs. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a national park with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Alice Springs is not known for its public transit.

While Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Public transit is generally limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Alice Springs

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs are nice when it comes to walkability.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

Alice Springs is somewhat walkable. The downtown area can be explored on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

How long in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs. In our opinion, Alice Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Alice Springs than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Alice Springs than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alice Springs that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alice Springs than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Alice Springs.


  • How many days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 2-4 
    Alice Springs 2-4

One day in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the iconic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Even though Alice Springs is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alice Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alice Springs has to offer.

Five days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the world renowned destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Alice Springs is a fun place to experience. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

You'll find museums around the beautiful national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Alice Springs is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Alice Springs or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is $95, while the average daily cost in Alice Springs is $98. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $56
    Alice Springs $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $112
    Alice Springs $104
Compare Hotels in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs

Looking for a hotel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs? 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park


Hotels in Alice Springs


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: Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Hotel Prices and Alice Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $28
    Alice Springs $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hakone Resorts to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) - Departure Transfer: $252
  • Hakone to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) - Private Departure Transfer: $161

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

Also for Alice Springs, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) Coach Transfer: $136
  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Alice Springs?

Prices for flights to both Alice Springs and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $21
    Alice Springs $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

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

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $243
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $246

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $12
    Alice Springs $14

Tours and Activities in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

  • Custom Private Tour in Hakone with a Certified Local Guide: $300
  • Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $43
  • Experience the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun hotspring: $15
  • Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $179
  • Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $208
  • Hakone Full-Day Private Tour : $272
  • Hakone Onsen Experience, Lake Ashi, Open-Air Museum Tour: $251
  • Hakone for Children to Enjoy! Japanese Crafts Experience: $193
  • Kimono, Tea Experience and Handcraft Bonsai in Hakone Gora: $79
  • Mount Fuji Cultural and Geological Discovery Tour: $85
  • Mount Fuji Scenic E-Bike Tour: $85
  • Mt. Fuji E-Bike Cycling Tour with Sushi making experience: $235

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alice Springs.

  • 2 Day Uluru Kata Tjuta Rock Escape Tour: $455
  • 4-Day Tour of Uluru, Kings Canyon, and the West MacDonnell: $2,761
  • A Town Like Alice: Half-Day Tour of Alice Springs: $690
  • Alice Springs Airport to Alice Springs City Half Day Tour: $126
  • Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour: $112
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $63
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $28
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $29
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $115
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $128
  • Alice Town And Country Half Day Sunset Tour - Small Group: $132
  • Alice Town and Country Half Day Sunset Tour -Small Group: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $9.05
    Alice Springs $18

Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.70


When comparing the travel costs between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Alice Springs, we can see that Alice Springs is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is in Asia and Alice Springs is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive? and Is Alice Springs Expensive?.