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

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

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

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park? 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 iconic, world renowned, and majestic national park. You'll find world class beauty in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a remote, rugged, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come to Mount Aspiring National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park : 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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Although Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. It is also home to Mount Fuji. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a moderate national park for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

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

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

People don't go to Mount Aspiring National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park both have fantastic 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 Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.


Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

You'll find a similar quality of fantastic scenery and beauty in both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park.

Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Mount Aspiring National Park as well. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park make for a very good 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.


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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Mount Aspiring National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park are good 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.


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

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

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

In either Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park .


  • How many days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 2-4 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

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

The majestic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers museums. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The rugged destination of Mount Aspiring National Park 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 national park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a fun place to experience. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.


A week in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

You'll find around the undeveloped national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Prices
    Japan Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $104
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is $104, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $53
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $106
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park ? 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 Mount Aspiring National Park


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 Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $27
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park 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 $35
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

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.

  • Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $41
  • Kimono, Tea Experience and Handcraft Bonsai in Hakone Gora: $75
  • Yosegi Zaiku Craft Experience in Hakone: $93
  • Mount Fuji Scenic EBike Tour for Cruise Travelers: $110
  • Mount Fuji E-Bike Tour: Explore Nature and History: $110
  • Mount Fuji Scenic E-Bike Tour: $110
  • Hakone Private Custom Tour: Hot Springs, Nature & Mt. Fuji Views: $115
  • Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Hakone: $137
  • Walk the Ancient Pilgrim Paths of Mt. Fuji – Private Tour: $138
  • Customizable Private Full Day Hakone Tour by car: $150
  • Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour: $164
  • Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $171

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $8.69
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.