A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Malang vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Should I visit Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? 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.

Malang

Malang is a under-rated, authentic, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Malang travel costs.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Chichibu-Tama-Kai travel costs.

Malang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Malang. Although Malang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Malang has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Malang is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Malang is popular for its many nearby natural attractions. It is also home to the Rainbow Village. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Malang different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Malang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Malang is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Malang is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Malang is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Malang have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Malang is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Malang has a few options to choose from. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Many people include a hike when visiting Malang. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.

Is the Shopping Better in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Malang is a city with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Malang. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai More Beautiful?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This park is perfectly positioned to offer a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's filled with beautiful forests and serene hiking trails that make for a wonderful day away.

Malang is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very family-friendly place to visit. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Malang offers lots of family activities. If you're willing to head just outside of town, you'll find theme parks and waterparks. Some of the favorites are Batu Secret Zoo, Jatim Park, Selecta Park, and Batu Night Spectacular.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for romance. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Malang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, museums, temples, and great food will have a good time visiting this city. It is also a bit cooler than much of Indonesia, which can make a nice escape from the heat.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Malang. Most backpackers pass through town when they're headed to climb Mount Bromo. There are plenty of hostels and cheap places to stay as well as some sights that are worth checking out.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Students?

Malang is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Malang. The university means that there's a large student population in town.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not popular with students.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Malang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

Public transit is generally limited in Malang. Angkot or mikrolet are small buses or modified cars that carry passengers around town. Many visitors also hire a motor scooter or driver to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its walkability. Also, Malang is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very walkable. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Malang is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Malang Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Malang?

How long in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Malang than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Malang, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Malang than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Malang.

One day in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Malang, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and nightlife around the under-rated city of Malang, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated destination of Malang. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Malang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Malang is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the natural destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Malang Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.