A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Kyoto vs. Dewa Sanzan for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Dewa Sanzan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a remote, traditional, and religious religious site. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums.

Kyoto and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kyoto is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its hiking. Kyoto is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. Also, Kyoto is famous for Kinkaku-ji. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Kyoto different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kyoto are world-renowned. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Kyoto has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kyoto. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Dewa Sanzan does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kyoto offers plenty to see. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Dewa Sanzan does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Kyoto is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kyoto is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly city. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Kyoto has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Dewa Sanzan is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Students?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

Kyoto is very popular with students. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Dewa Sanzan is not popular with students.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Kyoto has some very good public transit options. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kyoto and Dewa Sanzan. In our opinion, Kyoto has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Kyoto than Dewa Sanzan. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Dewa Sanzan 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 Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Dewa Sanzan, many people enjoy the museums that this religious destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This religious site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Kyoto. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

The fascinating city of Kyoto offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Dewa Sanzan is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums around the remote destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking during these months.

Kyoto is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the summer. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In the summer, Kyoto often gets more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the summer. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking trails.

In the autumn, Kyoto is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kyoto in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In October, Kyoto usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Kyoto during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dewa Sanzan in the winter. The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In January, Kyoto is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 5°C (40°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around -1°C (30°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun.

Dewa Sanzan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kyoto usually gets less rain in January than Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Dewa Sanzan. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year.

Kyoto is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the spring. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dewa Sanzan during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 188 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Dewa Sanzan. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dewa Sanzan and Kyoto