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

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Matsue?

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 Matsue. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Matsue

Matsue is a peaceful, pretty, and serene town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Yaeyama Islands and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Matsue?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Yaeyama Islands and Matsue are popular destinations, Yaeyama Islands has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Matsue attracts visitors for its museums & sights, food, historical sights, and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also well known for Nishihama Beach. Matsue is famous for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Matsue 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 Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

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 Matsue? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Matsue 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, Matsue makes for a great culinary experience. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

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 Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands is a archipelago with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Yaeyama Islands has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a resort destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Yaeyama Islands does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Matsue to see the historical old town. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Yaeyama Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

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.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Matsue?

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

Matsue is a great destination for shopping. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a very kid-friendly archipelago. 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.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Matsue Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Matsue is a good archipelago for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

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

Matsue 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 Matsue can move around easily with public transportation. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

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 Matsue a more walkable city?

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

Matsue is very walkable. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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 Matsue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Matsue?

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

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

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Matsue?

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 serene destination of Matsue offers shopping and museums. 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 Matsue?

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 town of Matsue offers museums and food. 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 Matsue?

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.

Matsue is a great place to explore. 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 Matsue?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical 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 shopping and museums when visiting Matsue. 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

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

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 Matsue Expensive?.

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Matsue in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Matsue. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Matsue because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yaeyama Islands is a little warmer than Matsue. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Matsue averages at about 25°C (78°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Matsue this time of the year. In Yaeyama Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Yaeyama Islands usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during summer. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yaeyama Islands usually receives less rain than Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Matsue in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Matsue. The autumn months attract visitors to Yaeyama Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

In October, Yaeyama Islands is generally much warmer than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 26°C (78°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Yaeyama Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in October than Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Matsue for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Matsue. Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Matsue in the winter. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during winter. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In January, Yaeyama Islands usually receives less rain than Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Matsue in the Spring?

Both Matsue and Yaeyama Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Matsue in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in April than Matsue. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Yaeyama Islands