A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yaeyama Islands vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a iconic, world renowned, and majestic national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking and museums.

Yaeyama Islands and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yaeyama Islands is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more popular for its museums and hiking. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Also, Yaeyama Islands is famous for Nishihama Beach. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is well known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

How is Yaeyama Islands 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 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yaeyama Islands 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.

Yaeyama Islands is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

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 Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Yaeyama Islands has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

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

Is Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

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

Is Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

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.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its hiking trails.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

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

Both Yaeyama Islands and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

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

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for couples. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. 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 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

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.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The tropical destination of Yaeyama Islands offers nightlife and food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The iconic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Yaeyama Islands is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yaeyama Islands has to offer.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the idyllic archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Yaeyama Islands and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Yaeyama Islands 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 29°C (85°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands usually gets less rain in July than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 26°C (78°F) in October, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yaeyama Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 5°C (42°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in January than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Yaeyama Islands is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 23°C (74°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yaeyama Islands usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yaeyama Islands