A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yaeyama Islands vs. Sapporo for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

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 Sapporo. 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. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a park-filled, snowy, and vibrant city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sapporo than Yaeyama Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yaeyama Islands is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yaeyama Islands is well known for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. Sapporo is well known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park.

How is Yaeyama Islands different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sapporo and Yaeyama Islands. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Yaeyama Islands is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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 Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sapporo 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, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

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 Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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 Sapporo Better for Resorts?

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

Sapporo is not a resort destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a beach destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for hiking. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

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

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Families?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Sapporo 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, Sapporo is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many 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 Sapporo Better for Students?

Sapporo is a well-known place for students. However, Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Many students visit Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Is Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can move around easily with public transportation. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

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

Sapporo is very walkable. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo 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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Yaeyama Islands?

How long in Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

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

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

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

One day in Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo?

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Sapporo is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Sapporo?

In Yaeyama Islands, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Sapporo is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Sapporo?

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yaeyama Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sapporo is a great place to explore. 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 Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yaeyama Islands. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Yaeyama Islands. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

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

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 Sapporo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yaeyama Islands as well as Sapporo. 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 Sapporo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Yaeyama Islands is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 29°C (85°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°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 Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yaeyama Islands usually gets more rain in July than Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 179 mm (7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo in the Autumn?

Both Sapporo 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 city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Sapporo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yaeyama Islands averages around 26°C (78°F) in October, and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during autumn. Yaeyama Islands gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. In October, Yaeyama Islands usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo in the Winter?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sapporo. In the winter, Yaeyama Islands is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yaeyama Islands in January average around 18°C (64°F), and Sapporo averages at about -5°C (24°F).

In the winter, Yaeyama Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun.

Sapporo 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 January than Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yaeyama Islands or Sapporo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yaeyama Islands and Sapporo. Many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sapporo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Yaeyama Islands is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Yaeyama Islands average around 23°C (74°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Yaeyama Islands usually receives less sunshine than Sapporo during spring. Yaeyama Islands gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 183 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 Sapporo. Yaeyama Islands gets 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Yaeyama Islands