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

Should you visit Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

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 Yamaguchi. 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 modern, cosmopolitan, and professional port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a serene, tranquil, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Shanghai and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Yamaguchi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yamaguchi is known for its hiking. Shanghai is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Shanghai different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Shanghai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

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

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Shanghai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yamaguchi makes for a great culinary experience. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Shanghai is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Shanghai. 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.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

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

Yamaguchi offers some nice hiking trails. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Shanghai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Shanghai. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Shanghai is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Shanghai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Shanghai. 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.

Yamaguchi is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi Better for Students?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

Shanghai is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Shanghai is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Shanghai can get you to most places easily. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

You'll find some public transit in Yamaguchi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Is Shanghai or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Yamaguchi is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Shanghai or Yamaguchi to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Shanghai than Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi.

Families should spend more time in Shanghai than Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The beautiful town of Yamaguchi offers museums and food. 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 Yamaguchi?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Yamaguchi 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yamaguchi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

People visit Shanghai because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

Shanghai is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shanghai and Yamaguchi, we can see that Shanghai is more expensive. And not only is Yamaguchi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yamaguchi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai and Yamaguchi, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Shanghai or Yamaguchi?

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 Shanghai or Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Shanghai during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Yamaguchi 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 July than Yamaguchi. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Yamaguchi. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In October, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Yamaguchi. The winter months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

The weather in Shanghai can be very cold. Shanghai is cooler than Yamaguchi in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Shanghai usually gets less rain in January than Yamaguchi. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

Both Yamaguchi and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Shanghai is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In April, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Shanghai