A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Mashiko for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a other-worldly, spiritual, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Mashiko

Mashiko is a charming, traditional, and rural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Mashiko travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko are both popular with visitors, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its food, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Mashiko is known for its shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. It is also home to Uluru. Mashiko is popular for its local sake, rural farms, and longstanding tradition in pottery making.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Mashiko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mashiko and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mashiko. There are a couple of museums around town that are focused on the local activities such as pottery. You can check out the Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan Museum, the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art, and the Entsuji Temple.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Mashiko offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around town that serve udon, soba, and other Japanese favorites that use local ingredients.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

The decent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Mashiko is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are a couple of bars and pubs around town, but not a huge nightlife scene.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for its luxury resorts. However, Mashiko is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Mashiko is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Mashiko. There are three mountains in the area with hiking trails that let you experience the Japanese countryside and natural beauty. These mountains are Mt. Amamakisan, Mt.Mitsudoyasan, and Mt. Takadateyama.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Mashiko is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Mashiko is well-known for its shopping. Local pottery is the main purchase in town, and there are many shops and local vendors who sell locally made pottery.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko More Beautiful?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Mashiko is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) because of it's amazing beauty. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Mashiko is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Mashiko is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Pottery is the claim to fame in this small town, and kids will thoroughly enjoy taking a children's pottery class. Its the perfect way to immerse them in the local culture in a fun and hands-on way. Farm life, and fruit picking are also popular here.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Mashiko is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with local farms, pottery, and sake. Many couples enjoy spending a few days soaking up the local atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mashiko is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Mashiko is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't venture to this community, but its seeped in quaint culture and small town atmosphere.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Mashiko is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Mashiko has some public transit options. There are local trains that stop by the strawberry picking farms. There are also local buses in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Mashiko

Mashiko is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Mashiko is a very walkable town. Many people choose to walk around town and the pottery area is about a 20 minute walk from Mashiko Station.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable national park. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Mashiko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mashiko or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Mashiko because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 1-2 days is enough time in Mashiko.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Mashiko. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Mashiko. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Mashiko 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Mashiko 1-2

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find museums and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mashiko is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mashiko, one day is sufficent for most. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Mashiko is a small town with plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Mashiko is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Mashiko is a great place to explore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Mashiko or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

  • Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
    Mashiko Prices
    Japan Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186
    Mashiko $83

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186, while the average daily cost in Mashiko is $83. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Mashiko $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Mashiko $68
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko? 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Mashiko


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Mashiko $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs Coach Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Mashiko?

Prices for flights to both Mashiko and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $81
    Mashiko $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $134
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $197
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner: $258

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Mashiko $9.17

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience: $261
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $120
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $178
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $160
  • Palm Valley 4WD Tour from Alice Springs: $174
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $70
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Mashiko $5.31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Mashiko, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Mashiko much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is in Pacific and Mashiko is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Mashiko would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mashiko 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Mashiko.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Mashiko Expensive?.


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