A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Surabaya vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

Should I visit Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? 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.

Surabaya

Surabaya is a undiscovered, authentic, and local city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Surabaya travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a majestic, dramatic, and iconic national park. The famous beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Surabaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Fuji
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Surabaya. Although Surabaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations, Surabaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Surabaya is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more touristy than Surabaya and is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Surabaya is famous for its role in Indonesia's independence revolution. It is also well known for the Submarine Monument.

How is Surabaya different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Surabaya. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

While most people don't head to Surabaya specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You'll likely pass through town on your way somewhere else, but if you have some time to kill, check out Suramadu Bridge, the House of Sampoerna, Cheng Hoo Mosque, Sanggar Agung Temple, and Ampel Mosque. It's also worth a visit to the Submarine Museum and the Heroes Monument.


Is the Food Better in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Surabaya is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Surabaya is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a port city, and the cuisine reflexs this. You'll find a mix of different flavors that combine Javanese, Chinese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian cuisines. Dishes include a lot of vegetables as well as tofu and tempeh. Many dishes are also sweet in flavor or incredibly spicy.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Surabaya is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Surabaya has a few options to choose from. Like the rest of the city, the nightlife scene has a local vibe. There are night markets, fascinating neighborhoods, and some lively clubs and bars.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Beaches?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Surabaya is a popular place for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Surabaya is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll find a few beaches within a short drive of the city center. Some of the popular ones include Ria Kenjeran Beach, Bentar Beach, and Delegan Beach.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Surabaya is not a hiking destination.

People visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Surabaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Surabaya is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Surabaya. The city has a great mix of air-conditioned mega-malls and colorful street markets. Bratang Market has become a favorite but it's also worth checking out Tugu Pahlawan Market and Ampel Market.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Surabaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of the main draws. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

Surabaya is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

For families, Surabaya is not always the best place to visit. You'll like be passing through this city enroute to somewhere else, but if you have some time to kill, check out the Submarine Museum. You can also wander through the market area of Qubah or explore Chinatown.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for couples. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for romance.

Couples visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Surabaya is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are some sights an museums that you can visit while you're in town.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for backpackers. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Surabaya is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town but most backpackers don't spend more than a night in town.


Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place for its public transit. However, Surabaya is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Public transit is mostly limited in Surabaya. There's a bus system, but it's mostly used by locals. There are two types of buses - normal buses and patas buses, which are express.

Is Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Surabaya
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Surabaya is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

Surabaya is a very walkable destination. It's one of the more walkable cities in Indonesia and it has the feel of a bunch of neighborhoods combined together.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Surabaya Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Surabaya?

How long in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Surabaya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than Surabaya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than Surabaya 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.


  • How many days in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Surabaya 1-2 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 2-4

One day in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Surabaya is a big city with plenty to do. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Surabaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Surabaya has to offer.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Surabaya is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the local city of Surabaya. It offers something for everyone. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Surabaya?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Surabaya Prices
    Indonesia Prices
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Surabaya $76
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $104

The average daily cost (per person) in Surabaya is $76, while the average daily cost in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is $104. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Surabaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Surabaya $36
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Surabaya $72
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Surabaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Looking for a hotel in Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Surabaya


Hotels in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Surabaya Hotel Prices and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Surabaya $2.66
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Surabaya

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Surabaya:

  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Cemoro Lawang: $223
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Podokoyo: $218
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Samaan: $218
  • Private Transfer from Batu to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $178
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Batu: $178
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Bangkalan: $142
  • Private Transfer from Bangkalan to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $142
  • Private Transfer from Gempol to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $54
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Gempol: $54
  • Private Transfer from Gresik to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $52
  • Private Transfer from Surabaya Airport (SUB) to Sidoarjo: $52
  • Private Transfer from Tanggulangin to Surabaya Airport (SUB): $52

Is it cheaper to fly into Surabaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Surabaya change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Surabaya $37
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Surabaya $4.56
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $12

Tours and Activities in Surabaya

Here are a few actual costs in Surabaya for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day Bromo Private Day Tour with Madakaripura Waterfall: $131
  • 1 Day Tour, Wonderful Mount Bromo Sunrise From Surabaya or Malang: $136
  • 1 days Majapahit temple history tour: $100
  • 1Day - Bromo Madakaripura Day Tour: $128
  • 2Days - Bromo Family Tour via Surabaya: $163
  • 2Days - Bromo Madakaripura Adventure via Surabaya or Malang: $155
  • 2Days - Bromo Sunrise Ijen Tour via Surabaya: $199
  • 2Days/1Night Bromo Private Tour with Hotel: $189
  • 3-Day Tour: Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater from Surabaya or Malang: $264
  • 3D2N Mount Bromo & Ijen Crater Tour from Surabaya: $289
  • 3Days - Adventure Bromo Ijen via Surabaya: $245
  • 3Days - Adventure Bromo Ijen via Surabaya or Malang: $275

Tours and Activities in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

  • Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $41
  • Kimono, Tea Experience and Handcraft Bonsai in Hakone Gora: $75
  • Yosegi Zaiku Craft Experience in Hakone: $93
  • Mount Fuji Scenic EBike Tour for Cruise Travelers: $111
  • Mount Fuji E-Bike Tour: Explore Nature and History: $111
  • Mount Fuji Scenic E-Bike Tour: $111
  • Hakone Private Custom Tour: Hot Springs, Nature & Mt. Fuji Views: $115
  • Walk the Ancient Pilgrim Paths of Mt. Fuji – Private Tour: $117
  • Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Hakone: $137
  • Customizable Private Full Day Hakone Tour by car: $150
  • Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour: $164
  • Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $171

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Surabaya -
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $8.69


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Surabaya Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.