A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yaeyama Islands vs. Hiroshima for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima. 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 idyllic, tropical, and pristine archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a park-filled, memorable, and meaningful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Yaeyama Islands and Hiroshima are both popular with visitors, Yaeyama Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hiroshima is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also home to Nishihama Beach. Hiroshima is popular for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hiroshima is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hiroshima that are not to be missed. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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 Hiroshima? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hiroshima is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hiroshima makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Hiroshima are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Resorts?

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

Yaeyama Islands is a world class resort vacation destination. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Hiroshima is not a resort destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Yaeyama Islands is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Hiroshima is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Yaeyama Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Hiroshima is not a beach destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for hiking. However, Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails. 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.

Hiroshima is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

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

Hiroshima is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hiroshima is a family-friendly place to visit. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Hiroshima makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

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

Hiroshima is a good destination for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

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 Hiroshima Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hiroshima is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Hiroshima can move around easily with public transportation. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses around 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 Hiroshima a more walkable city?

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

Hiroshima is very walkable. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas 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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Yaeyama Islands and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than in Hiroshima. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

Families should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 memorable destination of Hiroshima offers nightlife and food. It's no surprise that museums 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 Hiroshima?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the luxurious destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima?

You'll find nightlife and food around the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

Hiroshima is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Hiroshima?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hiroshima. 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 Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Hiroshima. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Hiroshima because of the family-friendly experiences.

Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Hiroshima in the summer. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Yaeyama Islands often gets more sunshine than Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands usually gets less rain in July than Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

Both Hiroshima and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In the autumn, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in October average around 26°C (78°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima in the Winter?

Both Hiroshima and Yaeyama Islands during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hiroshima. In January, Yaeyama Islands is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 18°C (64°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hiroshima receives 153 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in January than Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hiroshima in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Hiroshima. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Hiroshima in the spring. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 23°C (74°F) in April, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Hiroshima during spring. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Hiroshima receives 193 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Hiroshima and Yaeyama Islands