A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Canberra for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koyasan or Canberra?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koyasan and Canberra. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a traditional, peaceful, and serene town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Canberra

Canberra is a cultural, diverse, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Koyasan and Canberra: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Canberra?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Canberra than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Canberra is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koyasan is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Koyasan is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Canberra is well known for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Also, Canberra is famous for the Australian War Memorial.

How is Koyasan different from Canberra?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koyasan or Canberra?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Koyasan and Canberra.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Koyasan. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Is the Food Better in Koyasan or Canberra? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Canberra is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Canberra. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Nightlife?

Canberra is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koyasan and Canberra, and they are notable.

Koyasan offers some nice hiking trails. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Canberra is a good destination for hiking. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Canberra?

Canberra is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Canberra offers some nice shopping areas. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Families?

Canberra is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Canberra is a very kid-friendly city. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Couples?

Koyasan is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koyasan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Canberra is a good town for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koyasan is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Students?

Canberra is a great destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

Many students visit Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

Koyasan is not popular with students.

Is Koyasan or Canberra Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koyasan and Canberra.

You'll find some public transit in Koyasan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

While Canberra offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Koyasan or Canberra a more walkable city?

Koyasan is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Koyasan is a very walkable town. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Canberra is a somewhat walkable town. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

For even more information, also check out Is Koyasan Worth Visiting? and Is Canberra Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Canberra or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Canberra?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koyasan and Canberra. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Canberra than in Koyasan. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Canberra.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koyasan than Canberra 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 Koyasan.

One day in Koyasan or Canberra?

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Canberra, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Koyasan or Canberra?

Koyasan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Canberra, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Canberra has to offer.

Five days in Koyasan or Canberra?

Koyasan 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.

Canberra is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Canberra?

Koyasan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Canberra?

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

Should I visit Koyasan or Canberra in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Canberra. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Koyasan is a little warmer than Canberra in the summer. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Canberra fluctuates around 20°C (68°F)in January.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koyasan usually gets more rain in July than Canberrain January. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Canberra in the Autumn?

Both Canberra and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Canberra in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Koyasan is around the same temperature as Canberra. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koyasan in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Canberra averages at about 17°C (63°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Canberra. It's quite rainy in Koyasan. In October, Koyasan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Canberrain April. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koyasan or Canberra in the Winter?

Both Canberra and Koyasan during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Canberra for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Koyasan is generally much colder than Canberrain July. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 6°C (42°F), and Canberra fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Koyasan usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Canberrain July. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Canberra in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Canberra. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Canberra because of the activities around the city.

Koyasan is around the same temperature as Canberra in the spring. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Canberra fluctuates around 15°C (60°F)in October.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Canberrain October. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Canberra receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Canberra and Koyasan