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

Should you visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

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

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington? 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 world renowned, majestic, and dramatic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking and museums.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Wellington: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wellington. Although Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Wellington are both popular with visitors, Wellington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wellington is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Wellington is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also home to Zealandia Ecosanctuary.

How is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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

Wellington is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Wellington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Wellington is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Wellington has something for everybody. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington Better for Beaches?

Wellington is a great city for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Wellington is considered a top beach destination. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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 include a hike when visiting Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

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

Wellington is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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

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

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

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.

Wellington is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Wellington is a good national park for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

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

For backpackers, both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Wellington are high quality 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 Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington Better for Students?

Wellington is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not popular with students.

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

Wellington is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its public transit.

Wellington offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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.

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

Wellington is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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

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

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

How long in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Wellington. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than in Wellington. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Wellington.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wellington 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 Wellington.

One day in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

With museums around the iconic national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The compact destination of Wellington offers shopping and museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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 Wellington?

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. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wellington. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Wellington has to offer.

Five days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wellington is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the compact city of Wellington. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

When is the best time to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Wellington. The summer months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In July, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is generally a little warmer than Wellingtonin January. Daily temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park average around 26°C (78°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin January. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 202 mm (8 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park as well as Wellington. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wellington for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a little warmer than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually gets more rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington in the Winter?

Both Wellington and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Wellington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is much colder than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wellington. In January, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Wellington in the Spring?

Both Wellington and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches during these months.

In April, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is generally around the same temperature as Wellingtonin October. Daily temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park average around 14°C (57°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually gets more rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wellington and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park