A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Gold Coast for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Koyasan or Gold Coast?

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 Gold Coast. 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 serene, spiritual, and traditional town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a vibrant, colorful, and high energy coastline. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koyasan and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gold Coast. Although Koyasan and Gold Coast are both popular with visitors, Gold Coast has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gold Coast is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Koyasan is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Koyasan and is popular for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also home to the long sandy beaches. Koyasan is popular for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Koyasan different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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).

Gold Coast offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.

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

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

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 Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Gold Coast just to party. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Gold Coast for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gold Coast is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Gold Coast. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Gold Coast offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Gold Coast is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Gold Coast. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

Koyasan is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Gold Coast is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Gold Coast is very family-friendly. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Gold Coast is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Koyasan is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gold Coast is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Gold Coast. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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.

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

Gold Coast is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Gold Coast has some very good public transit options. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Koyasan or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Koyasan is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Gold Coast is not as popular, but is still a nice coastline for its walkability.

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

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Both Koyasan and Gold Coast have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gold Coast than in Koyasan. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Gold Coast.

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

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

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

One day in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, one day is sufficent for most.

In Gold Coast, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastline 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 Gold Coast?

Even though Koyasan is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Gold Coast, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Koyasan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gold Coast is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Gold Coast has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Koyasan 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gold Coast. In Gold Coast, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koyasan and Gold Coast, we can see that Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Gold Coast?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

Both Gold Coast and Koyasan during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gold Coast for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koyasan is around the same temperature as Gold Coast. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koyasan in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

In Gold Coast, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin January. Koyasan gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 256 hours of full sun.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. Koyasan usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Gold Coastin January. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Gold Coast. 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 Gold Coast in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In October, Koyasan is generally cooler than Gold Coastin April. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 19°C (65°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gold Coast this time of the year. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during autumn. Koyasan gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Gold Coast receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koyasan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coastin April. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koyasan or Gold Coast in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Gold Coast. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Koyasan is much colder than Gold Coast in the winter. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. In the winter, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Gold Coastin July. Koyasan gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gold Coast receives 226 hours of full sun.

Koyasan usually gets less rain in January than Gold Coastin July. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Gold Coast in the Spring?

Both Gold Coast and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Gold Coast because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Koyasan is cooler than Gold Coast. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koyasan in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

It's quite sunny in Gold Coast. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Gold Coast during spring. Koyasan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Gold Coast receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gold Coast. It's quite rainy in Koyasan. In April, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Gold Coastin October. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Koyasan