A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Christchurch for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Christchurch, 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 scenic, traditional, and serene town. The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Christchurch travel costs.

Yamaguchi and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Christchurch than Yamaguchi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Christchurch is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is known for its impressive beauty. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also home to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

How is Yamaguchi different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Christchurch and Yamaguchi.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Christchurch. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.


Is the Food Better in Yamaguchi or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Both Yamaguchi and Christchurch offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Yamaguchi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Christchurch makes for a great culinary experience. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Christchurch has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a very popular place for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.


Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch 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 Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

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 the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Yamaguchi is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.


Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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 Christchurch Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Yamaguchi and Christchurch are both very good 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 Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Yamaguchi is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.


Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Students?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Visitors will find good public transit in both Yamaguchi and Christchurch.

Yamaguchi has some public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Yamaguchi or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Christchurch

Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Yamaguchi or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Christchurch due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Yamaguchi 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 Christchurch.


  • How many days in Yamaguchi or Christchurch? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yamaguchi 1-2 
    Christchurch 2-4

One day in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

In Yamaguchi, many people enjoy the museums and food that this serene town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Christchurch. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Yamaguchi is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

You'll find museums and food around the serene destination of Yamaguchi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 nightlife and food when visiting the adventure-filled city of Christchurch. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Yamaguchi is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.


Which place is cheaper, Christchurch or Yamaguchi?

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 Yamaguchi is $100, while the average daily cost in Christchurch is $117. 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 Christchurch in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $47
    Christchurch $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $94
    Christchurch $98
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Christchurch

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Christchurch? 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 Christchurch


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 and Christchurch Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $21
    Christchurch $14

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: $399

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Cruise Port to Christchurch City: $87
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Lyttelton Cruise Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Akaroa Cruise Port: $189
  • Departure Transfer: Christchurch to Airport CHC by Business Car: $95
  • Christchurch Airport to City SUV Transfer: $57
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Airport CHC to Christchurch in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $164

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Prices for flights to both Christchurch 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 $40
    Christchurch $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yamaguchi

For Yamaguchi, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Yamaguchi ;Healthy tea drinking ; dinner: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.69
    Christchurch $17

Tours and Activities in Yamaguchi

For Yamaguchi, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kiku Plan - Wagashi making and tea ceremony experience -: $24
  • Fuji Plan - Kimono Experience and City Walk -: $37

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour From Christchurch: $179
  • (MT) Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch: $175
  • (MT) Mount Cook Day Tour From Christchurch: $150
  • 1/2-Day Christchurch Scenic Highlights Small Group Tour: $140
  • 1/2-day Christchurch Scenic Highlights (Private Tour): $239
  • 8 Day Southern Secrets Small Group Tour: $995
  • 8 Day Southern Secrets Small Group Tour: $995
  • Akaroa Day Tour From Christchurch: $114
  • Akaroa Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Christchurch: $156
  • Arthur's Pass Day Tour From Christchurch with TranzAlpine: $258
  • Arthur's Pass and TranzAlpine Train Day Tour from Christchurch: $255

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $8.21
    Christchurch $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

Also in Christchurch, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings: $108
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $114
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $117
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour : $135


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Yamaguchi Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Christchurch, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Yamaguchi has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Yamaguchi during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Christchurchin January. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 26°C (79°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in July than Christchurchin January. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Christchurch. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Yamaguchi is much warmer than Christchurch in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in April.

In October, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Christchurchin April. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Christchurch. The winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

In the winter, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Christchurch. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yamaguchi in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Christchurch averages at about 6°C (43°F)in July.

Yamaguchi usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Christchurchin July. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Christchurchin October. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 14°C (57°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. In April, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Christchurchin October. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Christchurch
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)