A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Koyasan vs. Okinawa for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Koyasan or Okinawa?

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 Okinawa. 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 spiritual, traditional, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a serene, idyllic, and tropical archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Koyasan and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Koyasan or Okinawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Koyasan and Okinawa are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Koyasan is popular for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Okinawa is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands.

How is Koyasan different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koyasan
Okinawa

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Koyasan and Okinawa.

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).

Okinawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.


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

Koyasan
Okinawa

Okinawa 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 Okinawa. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

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 Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

Koyasan
Okinawa

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

The people in Okinawa know how to have a good time. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

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 Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Okinawa is a great destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Okinawa to choose from. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.


Is Koyasan or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Koyasan
Okinawa

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

Okinawa offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Okinawa Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Koyasan is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Okinawa does not have a historic old town.


Is Koyasan or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Okinawa is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

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 Okinawa?

Koyasan
Okinawa

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

Okinawa offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Okinawa Better for Families?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Okinawa 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, Okinawa is very family-friendly. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

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 Okinawa Better for Couples?

Koyasan
Okinawa

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

Okinawa is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

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 Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Koyasan and Okinawa are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

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

Koyasan
Okinawa

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

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 Okinawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.


Is Koyasan or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Koyasan
Okinawa

Koyasan is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

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

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable town. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

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

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Okinawa?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Koyasan or Okinawa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koyasan 1-2 
    Okinawa 3-7

One day in Koyasan or Okinawa?

Koyasan is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koyasan has to offer.

In Okinawa, 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 Okinawa?

Koyasan is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Okinawa 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 Okinawa has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. Since Koyasan is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Okinawa. In Okinawa, 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 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Okinawa or Koyasan?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koyasan is $79, while the average daily cost in Okinawa is $105. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koyasan and Okinawa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koyasan $40
    Okinawa $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koyasan $80
    Okinawa $146
Compare Hotels in Koyasan and Okinawa

Looking for a hotel in Koyasan or Okinawa? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koyasan


Hotels in Okinawa


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koyasan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koyasan $33
    Okinawa $9.43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Okinawa

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Okinawa:

  • Airport Transfer! Center of Naha to Naha Airport (OKA): $125
  • Airport Transfer! Naha Airport (OKA) to Center of Naha: $124
  • Naha hotels to Okinawa Naha Airport (ОКА) - Departure Transfer: $59
  • Private One Way Transfer: Naha Airport (OHA) to/from Okinawa : $128
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $59
  • Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port : $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Koyasan or Okinawa?

Prices for flights to both Okinawa and Koyasan change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koyasan $19
    Okinawa $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Okinawa

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Okinawa.

  • Taste of Okinawa Cooking Experience and Historic Market Tour: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koyasan $13
    Okinawa $14

Tours and Activities in Okinawa

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Okinawa are as follows:

  • North Okinawa Bus Day Tour Manzamo Kouri Island Ocean Expo Park American Village: $36
  • Beautiful sunset kayak tour in Okinawa: $37
  • Mangrove Kayaking Tour: $40
  • Okinawa Hot spot walk and local food & beer tour(All include): $47
  • Jungle River Trek: private tour in Yanbaru, north Okinawa: $51
  • Mangrove Kayak & Sea Fishing Experience in Okinawa: $59
  • Sakaemachi Market Bar Hopping Tour: $60
  • Kayak Mangroves or Coral Reef: private tour in north Okinawa : $61
  • Naha: Full-Day Snorkeling Experience in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa: $64
  • Kerama Islands 1 day snorkeling tour from Okinawa Naha: $68
  • 2-Hour Private Gorilla Go Kart Experience in Okinawa: $68
  • Official Street Go-Kart Tour - Okinawa Shop: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koyasan $4.95
    Okinawa $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Okinawa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Okinawa:

  • Naha Local Pub Crawl: $110


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koyasan and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Koyasan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Okinawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Okinawa 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 Okinawa Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Okinawa?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Koyasan or Okinawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Okinawa. The summer months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.

In the summer, Koyasan is around the same temperature as Okinawa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koyasan in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Okinawa averages at about 29°C (84°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Okinawa this time of the year. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Okinawa during summer. Koyasan gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun in the summer.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koyasan usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Koyasan 27°C (81°F) 
    Okinawa 29°C (84°F)

Should I visit Koyasan or Okinawa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Okinawa. The hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koyasan is generally cooler than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 19°C (65°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the autumn, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koyasan usually gets less rain in October than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Koyasan 19°C (65°F) 
    Okinawa 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Koyasan or Okinawa in the Winter?

Both Okinawa and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Koyasan for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koyasan is much colder than Okinawa in the winter. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Okinawa fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Koyasan usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during winter. Koyasan gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In January, Koyasan usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Koyasan 6°C (42°F) 
    Okinawa 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Koyasan or Okinawa in the Spring?

Both Okinawa and Koyasan during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Okinawa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Koyasan is cooler than Okinawa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koyasan in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Okinawa averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In the spring, Koyasan often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. Koyasan usually gets less rain in April than Okinawa. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Koyasan 15°C (59°F) 
    Okinawa 22°C (71°F)

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Koyasan

Koyasan Okinawa
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 16°C (61°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 107 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 102 mm (4 in) 18°C (65°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Apr 15°C (59°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 24°C (76°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 208 mm (8.2 in) 27°C (80°F) 255 mm (10 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 156 mm (6.1 in) 29°C (84°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 28°C (83°F) 266 mm (10.5 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 28°C (82°F) 161 mm (6.3 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 105 mm (4.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)