A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yaeyama Islands vs. Nara for Couples, Attractions, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

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 Nara. 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 here as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Nara

Nara is a cultural, traditional, and tranquil city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands and Nara: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

Both Nara and Yaeyama Islands have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Nara attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Yaeyama Islands is more touristy than Nara and is known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Nara is famous for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Nara 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 Nara. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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 Nara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yaeyama Islands and Nara.

Yaeyama Islands offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Nara has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Nara is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Nara offers plenty to do in the evening. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a resort destination.


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

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Yaeyama Islands is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Nara 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.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for its Old Town?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

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

Many visitors go to Nara to see the historical old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Yaeyama Islands does not have a historic old town.


Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Hiking trails can be found around both Yaeyama Islands and Nara, 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 Nara. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

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

Nara is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Both Yaeyama Islands and Nara 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, Nara is very family-friendly. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.


Is Yaeyama Islands or Nara Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Yaeyama Islands is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

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

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Nara. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

Nara 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 Nara can move around easily with public transportation. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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 Nara a more walkable city?

Yaeyama Islands
Nara

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

Nara is very walkable. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors 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 Nara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nara or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yaeyama Islands or Nara to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Yaeyama Islands than Nara because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Yaeyama Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Nara.

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


  • How many days in Yaeyama Islands or Nara? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yaeyama Islands 3-5 
    Nara 1-2

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Yaeyama Islands. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The traditional destination of Nara 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 enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

Yaeyama Islands is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Nara 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 Nara?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the pristine destination of Yaeyama Islands. This archipelago offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Nara 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 Nara?

The tropical archipelago of Yaeyama Islands offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 and nightlife when visiting Nara. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nara or Yaeyama Islands?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Yaeyama Islands is $94, while the average daily cost in Nara is $87. 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 Nara in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yaeyama Islands $54
    Nara $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yaeyama Islands $108
    Nara $106
Compare Hotels in Yaeyama Islands and Nara

Looking for a hotel in Yaeyama Islands or Nara? 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 Nara


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 Nara Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yaeyama Islands $19
    Nara $5.90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nara

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nara:

  • Kansai Airport (KIX):Private One-Way Transfer to/from Nara: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Yaeyama Islands or Nara?

Prices for flights to both Nara 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 $29
    Nara $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nara

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nara.

  • Eel Fishing and Cooking Experience in Kyoto: $74
  • Full Day Nara E bike Tour and Osaka History Food Tour: $156

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yaeyama Islands $8.73
    Nara $7.90

Tours and Activities in Nara

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

  • Nara Heijyo-Kyo Bike Tour in UNESCO World Heritage Site: $17
  • A completely private tour to meet your favorite tea: $24
  • Nara Craft Tours - local Craft beers tour experience in Nara City: $28
  • All must-sees in 3 hours - Nara Park Classic Tour! From JR Nara!: $44
  • Nara Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $55
  • Eigo Tour - Walk in Nara City: $68
  • Nara - Highlights Bike Tour: $74
  • Nara Half Day Trip Walking Tour: $80
  • Nara World Heritage Todaiji Visit and Naramachi Tour: $81
  • Nara Todaiji Lazy Bird Tour: $90
  • Sake Tasting and Hopping Experience: $93
  • Half-Day Private Guided Tour to Nara City: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yaeyama Islands $6.36
    Nara $11


When comparing the travel costs between Yaeyama Islands and Nara, 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 Nara Expensive?.



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

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 Nara in the Summer?

Both Nara and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nara for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yaeyama Islands is around the same temperature as Nara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Nara averages at about 27°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. Yaeyama Islands usually receives more sunshine than Nara during summer. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In July, Yaeyama Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yaeyama Islands 29°C (85°F) 
    Nara 27°C (80°F)

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Nara in the Autumn?

Both Nara and Yaeyama Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Nara. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 26°C (78°F), and Nara fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Yaeyama Islands often gets more sunshine than Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nara 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 October than Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yaeyama Islands 26°C (78°F) 
    Nara 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Nara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Nara. Many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nara can be very cold during winter. Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Nara in the winter. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Nara during winter. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yaeyama Islands 18°C (64°F) 
    Nara 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Nara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Nara. Most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Nara because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Nara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in April average around 23°C (74°F), and Nara averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Yaeyama Islands often gets less sunshine than Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nara. Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in April than Nara. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to June in Yaeyama Islands is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yaeyama Islands 23°C (74°F) 
    Nara 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Nara and Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands Nara
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (64°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 19°C (65°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 126 mm (5 in) 8°C (46°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 23°C (74°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 26°C (79°F) 231 mm (9.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 128 mm (5.1 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 203 mm (8 in) 23°C (73°F) 214 mm (8.4 in)
Jul 29°C (85°F) 179 mm (7 in) 27°C (80°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 236 mm (9.3 in) 28°C (82°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 229 mm (9 in) 24°C (74°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
Oct 26°C (78°F) 173 mm (6.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 170 mm (6.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)