A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Okinawa vs. Dewa Sanzan for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

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 Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan. 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.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a lush, serene, and idyllic archipelago. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a religious, sacred, and remote religious site. Other popular activities here include hiking and museums.

Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Okinawa. Although Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan are both popular with visitors, Okinawa has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Okinawa is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is popular for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life. It is also home to the Kerama Islands. Dewa Sanzan is popular for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Okinawa different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Okinawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Okinawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Okinawa has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Okinawa. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Is Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa is not to be missed. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Okinawa is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking. 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.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Okinawa is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Okinawa. 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.

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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Okinawa is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Okinawa is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly archipelago. 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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Okinawa 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, Okinawa has plenty to offer. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a good archipelago 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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Okinawa is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Okinawa has some public transit options. 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.

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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan both are decent when exploring on foot.

Okinawa is generally not very walkable. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not a very walkable archipelago. 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 Okinawa Worth Visiting? and Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Okinawa?

How long in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Okinawa than in Dewa Sanzan. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Okinawa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dewa Sanzan.

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

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

One day in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the tropical archipelago of Okinawa. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, you'll find museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This religious site offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the serene destination of Okinawa. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dewa Sanzan has to offer.

Five days in Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the lush archipelago of Okinawa. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Dewa Sanzan is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Okinawa. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan, we can see that Okinawa 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 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 Dewa Sanzan.

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

When is the best time to visit Okinawa 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 Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Okinawa during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Okinawa for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dewa Sanzan in the summer for the hiking.

In July, Okinawa is generally a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Okinawa average around 29°C (84°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Okinawa. In the summer, Okinawa often gets more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 124 hours of full sun.

Dewa Sanzan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. Okinawa usually gets less rain in July than Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Okinawa and Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors come to Okinawa in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking trails during these months.

Okinawa is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Okinawa averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Okinawa usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during autumn. Okinawa gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Okinawa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Okinawa as well as Dewa Sanzan. Most visitors come to Okinawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Dewa Sanzan can be very cold. In the winter, Okinawa is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Okinawa in January average around 16°C (61°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about -1°C (30°F).

In the winter, Okinawa often gets less sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the winter. Okinawa usually gets less rain in January than Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Okinawa or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Okinawa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Okinawa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Okinawa is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Okinawa average around 22°C (71°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Okinawa usually receives less sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during spring. Okinawa gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 188 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. In April, Okinawa usually receives more rain than Dewa Sanzan. Okinawa gets 164 mm (6.5 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 Okinawa