A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ho Chi Minh City vs. Yaeyama Islands for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Ho Chi Minh City and Yaeyama Islands can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a chaotic, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a luxurious, serene, and idyllic archipelago. Many visitors also come to Yaeyama Islands because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Yaeyama Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is well known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the War Remnants Museum. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yaeyama Islands and Ho Chi Minh City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Ho Chi Minh City that are not to be missed. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for theatre. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a theatre destination.

Ho Chi Minh City offers a number of shows and performances. Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.

Yaeyama Islands is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Ho Chi Minh City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see party destination. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Yaeyama Islands is a perfect choice. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Yaeyama Islands is a very popular vacation destination. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is great for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ho Chi Minh City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Yaeyama Islands because of it's amazing beauty. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is very family-friendly. Kids may feel overwhelmed at first, but they're sure to fall in love with the energy and kid-friendly activities in this city. There are traditional water puppet shows, kid-friendly restaurants, and fun parks. There's also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, smaller water parks, zoos, and art museums to explore.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yaeyama Islands is very family-friendly. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Yaeyama Islands has plenty to offer. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a vibrant cultural scene with excellent restaurants, great parks, and countless day trips, this is the ultimate couple's getaway.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ho Chi Minh City is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's well established on the Southeast Asian backpacker's circuit and you'll find no shortage of hostels in town. You'll find a good number of backpackers in District 1 of the city, near Ben Thanh Market. Many backpackers also arrange trips to the Mekong Delta or elsewhere in Thailand while they're here.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for students. However, Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Ho Chi Minh City is a good city to visit for students. Study abroad students appreciate the city's energy and plethora of activities. It also makes a good base for trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ho Chi Minh City and Yaeyama Islands both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ho Chi Minh City. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.

Public transit is generally limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Ho Chi Minh City is somewhat walkable. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable city. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting? and Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Ho Chi Minh City?

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Ho Chi Minh City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Yaeyama Islands. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ho Chi Minh City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Ho Chi Minh City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Yaeyama Islands that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Yaeyama Islands 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 Ho Chi Minh City.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Ho Chi Minh City is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the serene destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Ho Chi Minh City is a big city with plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and food around the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area 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 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ho Chi Minh City and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Yaeyama Islands is more expensive. And not only is Ho Chi Minh City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ho Chi Minh City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Yaeyama Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yaeyama Islands than you might in Ho Chi Minh City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive? and Is Yaeyama Islands Expensive?.