A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Dunedin for Beaches, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

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 Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin. 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.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a pristine, luxurious, and serene archipelago. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a cultural, vibrant, and small city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands than Dunedin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yaeyama Islands is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Dunedin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Dunedin and is known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Also, Yaeyama Islands is famous for Nishihama Beach. Dunedin is well known for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

Dunedin is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dunedin. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin.

Yaeyama Islands offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Dunedin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

Dunedin is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Dunedin offers plenty to do in the evening. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Dunedin is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Yaeyama Islands is a great choice. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Dunedin is not a resort destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dunedin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Dunedin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Yaeyama Islands. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

Many people head to Dunedin to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Many people include a hike when visiting Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

Dunedin is a well-known place for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dunedin is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Families?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin are superb family-friendly destinations.

Yaeyama Islands is a very family-friendly place to visit. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dunedin is very family-friendly. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Yaeyama Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dunedin is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Dunedin. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Students?

Dunedin is a well-known place for students. However, Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Many students visit Dunedin. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dunedin is a good destination for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Dunedin has a few public transit options. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Dunedin is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Dunedin is very walkable. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable archipelago. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than in Dunedin. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dunedin than Yaeyama Islands 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 Dunedin.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The cultural destination of Dunedin offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Dunedin offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yaeyama Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Dunedin is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Yaeyama Islands or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Yaeyama Islands. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dunedin. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Yaeyama Islands and Dunedin, we can see that Dunedin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Yaeyama Islands is in Asia and Dunedin is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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