A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Hobart for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Hobart?

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 Hobart. 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. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hobart

Hobart is a quaint, historical, and charming city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands and Hobart: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Hobart?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Yaeyama Islands and Hobart are popular destinations, Yaeyama Islands has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hobart attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also well known for Nishihama Beach. Hobart is famous for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Hobart?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hobart 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 Hobart. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

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 Hobart? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hobart 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, Hobart makes for a great culinary experience. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

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 Hobart Better for Nightlife?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Hobart are nice 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 Hobart. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hobart Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not a resort destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hobart Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is renowned for the beache. However, Hobart 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.

Hobart is not a beach destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hobart Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Yaeyama Islands and Hobart, and they are very good.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular spot for hiking. 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 visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hobart. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Hobart?

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

Hobart is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hobart Better for Families?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Hobart are very good 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, Hobart is very family-friendly. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Hobart Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Hobart is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

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

Hobart 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.

Hobart has a few public transit options. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

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 Hobart a more walkable city?

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

Hobart is very walkable. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring 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 Hobart Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hobart or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Hobart?

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

Couples should spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Hobart. 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 Hobart 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 Hobart.

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Hobart?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The quaint destination of Hobart offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Hobart?

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The city of Hobart offers food and shopping. 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 Hobart?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Hobart is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Hobart?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Yaeyama Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hobart. 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 Budget Tours to Australia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yaeyama Islands and Hobart, we can see that Hobart is more expensive. And not only is Yaeyama Islands much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Yaeyama Islands is in Asia and Hobart is in Pacific, 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 Yaeyama Islands would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yaeyama Islands 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 Hobart would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hobart than you might in Yaeyama Islands.

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 Hobart Expensive?.

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

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Hobart is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Yaeyama Islands has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hobart in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Hobart averages at about 17°C (63°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hobart. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Yaeyama Islands this time of the year. In the summer, Yaeyama Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hobartin January. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 259 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in July than Hobartin January. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hobart in the Autumn?

Both Hobart 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 hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hobart this time of year.

In October, Yaeyama Islands is generally much warmer than Hobartin April. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 26°C (78°F), and Hobart fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hobart during autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Hobartin April. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hobart in the Winter?

Both Hobart 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hobart for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Hobart in the winter. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Hobart fluctuates around 9°C (47°F)in July.

In the winter, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Hobartin July. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hobart receives 152 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 Hobartin July. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Hobart in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Hobart. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in April average around 23°C (74°F), and Hobart averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hobart this time of the year. Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Hobart during spring. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Hobart receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Hobartin October. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Hobart receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Hobart and Yaeyama Islands