A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a traditional, serene, and tranquil town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a natural, beautiful, and peaceful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yamaguchi than Chichibu-Tama-Kai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yamaguchi is better known for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more popular for its hiking. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. Also, Yamaguchi is famous for Akiyoshido (a limestone cave). Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Yamaguchi different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Yamaguchi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.


Is the Food Better in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Yamaguchi. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi is adequate for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Yamaguchi doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.


Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Yamaguchi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

Couples visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Yamaguchi. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a good town to visit for backpackers. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.


Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Yamaguchi is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Yamaguchi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable destination. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Yamaguchi is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. In our opinion, Yamaguchi has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Yamaguchi than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Yamaguchi than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Yamaguchi that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yamaguchi than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Yamaguchi.


  • How many days in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yamaguchi 1-2 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2

One day in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With food and museums around the destination of Yamaguchi, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and food around the serene town of Yamaguchi, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Yamaguchi is a popular choice for travelers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Yamaguchi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yamaguchi is $80, while the average daily cost in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $69. 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 Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $68
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? 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 Yamaguchi


Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai


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: Yamaguchi Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yamaguchi

Also for Yamaguchi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Prices for flights to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Yamaguchi 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
    Yamaguchi $22
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.30


When comparing the travel costs between Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai, we can see that Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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 Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yamaguchi in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 19°C (65°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yamaguchi in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)


Related Articles for Yamaguchi
Related Articles for Chichibu-Tama-Kai