A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shanghai vs. Koyasan for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Shanghai or Koyasan?

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 Shanghai and Koyasan. 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.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a trendy, modern, and cosmopolitan port city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a spiritual, traditional, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Shanghai and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shanghai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Shanghai is well known for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. Also, Shanghai is famous for The Bund. Koyasan is well known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Shanghai different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Shanghai are among the most recognizable in the world. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

Koyasan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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).

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

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

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 Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

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

Shanghai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

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 Shanghai or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is notable for its old town. However, Shanghai 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.

Shanghai does not have a historic old town.

Is Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Koyasan offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Shanghai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Shanghai make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Families?

Shanghai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

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 Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Couples?

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

Shanghai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city getaway.

Koyasan is a great port city 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 Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit for backpackers. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

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 Shanghai or Koyasan Better for Students?

Shanghai is a great destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

Many students visit Shanghai. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

Koyasan is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai 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.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

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 Shanghai or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Koyasan both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Shanghai is a very walkable port city. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Shanghai or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Shanghai than Koyasan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

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

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

One day in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer.

Koyasan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Koyasan?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shanghai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koyasan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Shanghai or Koyasan?

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 Shanghai or Koyasan in the Summer?

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

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the summer. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koyasan in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Shanghai in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Koyasan averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Koyasan. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koyasan in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In January, Shanghai is generally cooler than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 4°C (39°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Shanghai usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Koyasan in the Spring?

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

Shanghai is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the spring. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Koyasan. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets less rain in April than Koyasan. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Shanghai