A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Hiking, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a world renowned, majestic, and dramatic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums.

Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yamaguchi. Although Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations, Yamaguchi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yamaguchi is very popular for its food and nightlife, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Yamaguchi is famous for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. It is also well known for Akiyoshido (a limestone cave).

How is Yamaguchi different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.


Is the Food Better in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Yamaguchi is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Yamaguchi is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

You'll find some public transit in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Is Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Yamaguchi than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.


  • How many days in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yamaguchi 1-2 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 2-4

One day in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The scenic destination of Yamaguchi offers food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums around the national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yamaguchi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yamaguchi has to offer.

You'll find museums around the world renowned destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Yamaguchi is a fun place to experience. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the world renowned national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the traditional town of Yamaguchi. It offers something for everyone. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is $88. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $104
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park


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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $26

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: $129

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hakone to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) - Private Departure Transfer: $154
  • Hakone Resorts to Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) - Departure Transfer: $241

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Prices for flights to both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $11

Tours and Activities in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

  • Custom Private Tour in Hakone with Optional Hot Springs Experience: $300
  • Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $27
  • Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $160
  • Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $187
  • Hakone Full-Day Private Tour : $253
  • Hakone Onsen Experience, Lake Ashi, Open-Air Museum Tour: $233
  • Hakone for Children to Enjoy! Japanese Crafts Experience: $180
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone hotels to Grandberry Park: $133
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Gotemba Premium Outlets: $133
  • Private Shopping Tour from Hakone to Mitsui Outlet Park Yokohama: $155
  • Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Hakone: $133
  • Tour around Mount Fuji group from 2 people ¥32,000: $213

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park $8.39


When comparing the travel costs between Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yamaguchi in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year.

In January, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 6°C (42°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the natural beauty.

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 26°C (78°F) 202 mm (8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 27°C (80°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 209 mm (8.2 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)


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