A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yaeyama Islands vs. Kaikoura for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

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 Kaikoura. 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. You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a biologically diverse, unique, and nature-oriented town. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Kaikoura travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also well known for Nishihama Beach. Kaikoura is famous for its local Sperm Whale population, abundance of marine life, and local crayfish (lobster) recipes.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Kaikoura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Both Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Yaeyama Islands offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

While most people don't head to Kaikoura specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There aren't many museums in the area, but it's worth learning more about the region's history with a visit to Kaikoura Museum.


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

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Kaikoura 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, Kaikoura makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood lovers will be in heaven in this town! There are many local, freshly caught favorites such as cod, mussels, and crayfish (which is actually lobster). You'll find plenty of casual eateries, including an authentic American diner.

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 Kaikoura Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Both Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura. This is a small town so the nightlife scene is limited, but there are a few restaurants with bars around town.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura is not a resort destination.


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

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Yaeyama Islands is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kaikoura 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.

Kaikoura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

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.

Kaikoura is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many black pebble beaches in the area, which are great for wildlife spotting, but not so good for swimming. Gooch's Beach is one of the most popular, and it's sandier than many of the other beaches. South Bay is another popular area to visit.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Hiking trails can be found around both Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura, and they are superb.

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 Kaikoura. There are many coastal walks in the area that will take you through a variety of landscapes. This is also a great way to see the many diverse types of wildlife throughout the peninsula.


Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kaikoura is a great destination for shopping. There are local shops where you can pick up some interesting products that are unique to the area.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaikoura is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Kaikoura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Kaikoura is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Kaikoura is very family-friendly. Kids who love animals will appreciate all of the wildlife in the area. This is one of the best places in the country to see dolphins, whales, and seals. There are world class whale watching trips as well as opportunities to swim with the dolphins and get close to the seals. There is also kayaking, a coastal train, and even sheep shearing. Minigolf is also a fun activity in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yaeyama Islands is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Kaikoura is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Kaikoura makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town is all about wildlife, so if whale watching trips, dolphin spotting, and experiencing amazing local wildlife is your thing, then this is your spot! There are also beautiful coastal sights with a dramatic mountain backdrop.

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

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura. There are a decent number of hostels in the area and plenty of fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

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

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Kaikoura. The town is very small and there is no real public transit in the area.


Is Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura a more walkable city?

Yaeyama Islands
Kaikoura

Kaikoura is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Kaikoura is somewhat walkable. There are many coastal walks in the area, which is a great way to soak up the beauty and see the wildlife. The town itself is small and most of the accommodation is along Beach Road, so it's relatively easy to reach places 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 Kaikoura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kaikoura or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

It's fun to spend time in either Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura. 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 Kaikoura.

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

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


  • How many days in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yaeyama Islands 3-5 
    Kaikoura 2-4

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

The beautiful archipelago of Yaeyama Islands offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The unique destination of Kaikoura offers food and shopping. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Kaikoura?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The town of Kaikoura offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Kaikoura?

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yaeyama Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kaikoura is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Kaikoura. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Kaikoura or Yaeyama Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yaeyama Islands is $118, while the average daily cost in Kaikoura is $162. 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 Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yaeyama Islands $56
    Kaikoura $48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yaeyama Islands $112
    Kaikoura $96
Compare Hotels in Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura

Looking for a hotel in Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura? 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 Yaeyama Islands


Hotels in Kaikoura


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yaeyama Islands Hotel Prices and Kaikoura Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yaeyama Islands $19
    Kaikoura $17

Is it cheaper to fly into Yaeyama Islands or Kaikoura?

Prices for flights to both Kaikoura and Yaeyama Islands 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
    Yaeyama Islands $50
    Kaikoura $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yaeyama Islands $8.93
    Kaikoura $152

Tours and Activities in Kaikoura

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Kaikoura are as follows:

  • Llama Trek (Taster) - Kowhai River Valley and Native Woodland Tour: $79
  • Private Seal Kayaking and Wildlife Tour in Kaikoura: $80
  • Seal Kayaking Adventure in Kaikoura: $80
  • Seal-Watching Pedal Kayak Tour: $81
  • Kaikōura: Kayak Sunset Tour with Seal Sightings: $81
  • Sunset Kayak tour in Kaikoura: $82
  • Half-Day Wildlife Kayaking Tour: $93
  • Sunset Evening Kayaking Tour: $93
  • Guided Family Kayaking Adventure: $93
  • Wildlife Sea Kayaking Tour - Kaikoura: $95
  • Sunset Evening Kayaking Tour - Kaikoura: $95
  • Whale Watching Cruise: $101

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yaeyama Islands $6.51
    Kaikoura -


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yaeyama Islands and Kaikoura, we can see that Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kaikoura 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 Kaikoura Expensive?.