A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park vs. Aoraki Mount Cook for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook? 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook

Aoraki Mount Cook is a dramatic, breathtaking, and world renowned mountain. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Aoraki Mount Cook: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Although Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Aoraki Mount Cook are popular destinations, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is famous for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. It is also well known for Mount Fuji. Aoraki Mount Cook is famous for its glaciers, alpine setting, and being the highest mountain in New Zealand.

How is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park different from Aoraki Mount Cook?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Aoraki Mount Cook?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is great for its historical sights. However, Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Aoraki Mount Cook can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few cafes and restaurants in the village, but if you're doing any hiking you should pack your own food.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Nightlife?

Neither Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

People don't go to Aoraki Mount Cook for the nightlife. There's an upscale bar at the Hermitage Hotel, but otherwise very little to do at night.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Aoraki Mount Cook both have amazing 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 Aoraki Mount Cook specifically for its hiking. There are beginner trails as well as world class routes that bring out expert climbers. As the highest peak in New Zealand, many people come here for the challenge, but if you're looking for a most simple experience, the hiking opportunities are still abundant.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Families?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of short walks that are perfect for little legs. Kids will also enjoy the boat rides on the lakes and the area's superb stargazing.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Couples?

Aoraki Mount Cook is an amazing mountain to visit for couples. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Aoraki Mount Cook makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the stunning glaciers, beautiful walks, and iconic views. Many couples take helicopter rides to fully experience the area. Stargazing and hiking is also high on the list of must-do romantic activities.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Aoraki Mount Cook is not as popular, but is still a nice mountain for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aoraki Mount Cook. While many activities in the area are expensive, the hiking is world class and there are a few hostels and camping opportunities nearby.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination 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 limited or non-existant in Aoraki Mount Cook. Having a car is essential unless you take a private tour that provides transportation.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook a more walkable city?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Aoraki Mount Cook is not a good destination for its 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook is generally not very walkable. While there are many trails through the region, you really must have a car to access the trail heads and efficiently get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Aoraki Mount Cook or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

How long in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook?

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

Families should spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than Aoraki Mount Cook. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

One day in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook?

With museums around the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

The scenic destination of Aoraki Mount Cook offers . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This mountain 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 Aoraki Mount Cook?

With museums around the world renowned national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aoraki Mount Cook. 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 Aoraki Mount Cook has to offer.

Five days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Aoraki Mount Cook?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the majestic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Aoraki Mount Cook?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. This national park 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.

You'll find around the breathtaking mountain of Aoraki Mount Cook. 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 The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Aoraki Mount Cook, we can see that Aoraki Mount Cook is more expensive. And not only is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is in Asia and Aoraki Mount Cook 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Aoraki Mount Cook would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aoraki Mount Cook than you might in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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 Aoraki Mount Cook Expensive?.