A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kamakura vs. Wollongong for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Kamakura or Wollongong?

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

Should I visit Kamakura or Wollongong? 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.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a laid back, ancient, and quaint coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a trendy, vibrant, and student-friendly coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Kamakura and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kamakura or Wollongong?

You'll generally find more things to do in Wollongong than Kamakura. Wollongong is bigger than Kamakura, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Wollongong is better known for its beaches and big city activities, while Kamakura is more popular for its historical sights. Kamakura is more touristy than Wollongong and is popular for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches. Wollongong is well known for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. Also, Wollongong is famous for Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Kamakura different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wollongong and Kamakura. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kamakura or Wollongong?

Both Kamakura and Wollongong have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Kamakura offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

Many visitors head to Wollongong specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Is the Food Better in Kamakura or Wollongong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Kamakura and Wollongong can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kamakura makes for a great culinary experience. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Wollongong has a huge number of terrific restaurants. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Both Kamakura and Wollongong are high quality when it comes to partying.

Kamakura offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Wollongong has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beache.

Wollongong is considered a top beach destination. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Wollongong does not have a historic old town.

Kamakura has an old town worth visiting. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Wollongong does not have a historic old town.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Kamakura and Wollongong both have notable trails.

Kamakura is a good destination for hiking. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Kamakura or Wollongong?

Both Kamakura and Wollongong are notable shopping destinations.

Kamakura is a great destination for shopping. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Wollongong. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Families?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Wollongong is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Kamakura is a family-friendly coastal city. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Kamakura and Wollongong make for a high quality place to visit.

Kamakura is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Wollongong makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Kamakura and Wollongong are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kamakura. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a popular place for students. However, Kamakura is not popular with students.

Wollongong is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Kamakura is not popular with students.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Wollongong. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

Kamakura has some public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Kamakura or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Wollongong is very walkable. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable place. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kamakura Worth Visiting? and Is Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Kamakura?

How long in Kamakura or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Kamakura or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kamakura, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

Couples should spend more time in Wollongong than Kamakura. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Wollongong that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wollongong than Kamakura 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 Wollongong.

One day in Kamakura or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the ancient coastal city of Kamakura, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kamakura, one day is sufficent for most.

The coastal city of Wollongong offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kamakura or Wollongong?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kamakura, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city.

Wollongong is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wollongong, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kamakura or Wollongong?

Kamakura, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wollongong is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kamakura or Wollongong?

Kamakura is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Wollongong is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kamakura Expensive? and Is Wollongong Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kamakura or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Kamakura. When comparing the sizes of Kamakura and Wollongong, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kamakura or Wollongong?

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

Should I visit Kamakura or Wollongong in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kamakura as well as Wollongong. The summer months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

In July, Kamakura is generally around the same temperature as Wollongongin January. Daily temperatures in Kamakura average around 25°C (77°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. In the summer, Kamakura often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin January. Kamakura gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kamakura usually gets more rain in July than Wollongongin January. Kamakura gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamakura or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong and Kamakura are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamakura this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wollongong for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Kamakura is around the same temperature as Wollongong in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kamakura averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in April.

Kamakura usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during autumn. Kamakura gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. In October, Kamakura usually receives more rain than Wollongongin April. Kamakura gets 177 mm (7 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kamakura or Wollongong in the Winter?

Both Wollongong and Kamakura during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wollongong in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kamakura is much colder than Wollongong. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kamakura in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Wollongong averages at about 10°C (50°F)in July.

In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Kamakura often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin July. Kamakura gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun.

Kamakura usually gets more rain in January than Wollongongin July. Kamakura gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kamakura or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kamakura and Wollongong. Many visitors come to Kamakura in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wollongong for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Kamakura is generally cooler than Wollongongin October. Daily temperatures in Kamakura average around 14°C (58°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. Kamakura usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during spring. Kamakura gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Kamakura usually receives more rain than Wollongongin October. Kamakura gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Kamakura