A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Gold Coast for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Gold Coast, 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.

Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a fun-filled, glamourous, and vibrant coastline. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Yamaguchi and Gold Coast: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gold Coast than Yamaguchi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Gold Coast is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Yamaguchi attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Gold Coast is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its colorful theme parks, thrilling water sports, and nearby rainforests. It is also well known for the long sandy beaches. Yamaguchi is famous for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Gold Coast?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. The views from the observation deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa are a not-to-be-missed experience. You'll also find many amusement parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the area.


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

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Both Yamaguchi and Gold Coast 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, Gold Coast makes for a great culinary experience. The coastline is filled with modern Australian restaurants that serve locally caught seafood and modern twists on traditional dishes. There are wine bars, fine dining restaurants, and more casual options. You'll also find plenty of international eateries as well.

Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Gold Coast is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is filled with ritz and glam, but you'll also find wild beach parties and lively nightclubs. There are backpackers and students that keep the parties going until the morning hours.

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 Gold Coast Better for Resorts?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Gold Coast offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from family-friendly to backpacker-focused with everything in between. There are many high rise resorts that have luxury pools and beachfront views.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.


Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Gold Coast to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many dive shops and snorkeling excursions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, there are excursions that will not disappoint. There are also many places that offer certification courses.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Beaches?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Gold Coast are among the best in the world. This stretch of beachline is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are miles of coastline that are sandy and beautiful and some of the most popular beaches include the Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, and Broadbeach.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast. The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk connects the area's diverse and lush rainforests through the Numinbah Valley. It's a World Heritage Area with subtropical rainforest as well as warm temperate rainforest, and Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.

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 Gold Coast?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Gold Coast. There are large outlet malls, outdoor markets, and designer shopping centers. You'll find trendy fashion designers as well as the typical souvenir shops.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast 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.

Gold Coast is an amazing family-friendly coastline to visit. It's filled with popular theme parks and other adrenaline-filled activities. There are surfing lessons, wildlife sanctuaries, ropes courses, and water sports. Kids of all ages will appreciate this fun-filled setting with its many family-friendly resorts and restaurants.

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 Gold Coast Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Gold Coast has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples that energy high energy activities, water sports, theme parks, and parties that last into the morning, will love a stay at this vibrant coast. There's no shortage of great restaurants, entertaining shows, and fun activities that you can experience.

Couples visit Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.


Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Gold Coast, as it is a very popular coastline for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to this vibrant coastline. There are hostels and budget-friendly places to stay, and there's a huge nightlife scene. The many activities and long sandy beaches make this a well established stop on Australia's backpacker circuit.

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

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Gold Coast is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Gold Coast can get you to most places easily. There's a bus, train, and tram network that's operated by TransLink and runs along the coast.

You'll find some public transit in Yamaguchi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Is Yamaguchi or Gold Coast a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Gold Coast

Yamaguchi and Gold Coast are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Gold Coast is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the area that can be explored on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Gold Coast Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gold Coast or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Both Yamaguchi and Gold Coast have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gold Coast than in Yamaguchi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Gold Coast.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast.


  • How many days in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yamaguchi 1-2 
    Gold Coast 3-7

One day in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

With museums and food around the serene town of Yamaguchi, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yamaguchi, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastline of Gold Coast. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Gold Coast?

With food and museums around the destination of Yamaguchi, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the high energy destination of Gold Coast. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastline offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Yamaguchi, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the high energy coastline of Gold Coast. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastline makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastline has to offer.


A week in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Yamaguchi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Gold Coast is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gold Coast, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast is $98. 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 Gold Coast in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Gold Coast $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Gold Coast $110
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Gold Coast

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Gold Coast? 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 Gold Coast


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
    Gold Coast $23

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: $125

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Gold Coast

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

  • Private Gold Coast Airport Arrival Transfer to Byron Bay: $137
  • Movie World To Brisbane Hotel One Way Transfer: $26
  • Tangalooma Snorkel the Wrecks Cruise Transfers: $154
  • Tangalooma Marine Discovery Day Cruise Transfers: $147
  • Tangalooma Desert Safari Day Cruise Transfers: $147
  • Tangalooma Beach Day Cruise with Bus Transfers: $114
  • Australia Zoo Ticket and Roundtrip Transfer: $101
  • Airport to Hotel Return Transfer: $21
  • Gold Coast Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Gold Coast: $73
  • Gold Coast Airport Transfer: Gold Coast to Airport OOL in Luxury Van: $126
  • Gold Coast Airport Transfer: Gold Coast to Airport OOL in Luxury Car: $127
  • Gold Coast Airport Transfer: Airport OOL to Gold Coast in Luxury Van: $126

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Prices for flights to both Gold Coast 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
    Gold Coast $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Gold Coast

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

  • Australian Outback Spectacular Dinner & Show: $72
  • Gold Coast Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Gold Coast $19

Tours and Activities in Gold Coast

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Gold Coast.

  • 1.5 hr Jet Ski Safari tour to South Stradbroke Island!: $184
  • 2 Hours Dolphin Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour on the Broadwater: $50
  • 2.5 hr Jet Ski Safaris tour - Ultimate Adventure + island stop: $264
  • 2.5-Hour Ultimate Learn to Surf Adventure: $43
  • 2.5hr Gold Coast Kayaking & snorkelling tour: $52
  • 3-Day Ticket: Dreamworld with WhiteWaterWorld & SkyPoint: $97
  • Aquaduck Gold Coast 1 hour City and River Tour: $36
  • Arro Jet Boating Experience, Surfers Paradise Gold Coast: $52
  • Breakfast sailing cruise includes snacks & drinks: $79
  • Brisbane: Winery Tour with Tastings and 2-Course Lunch: $150
  • Broadwater Morning Cruise: $39
  • Broadwater Morning Cruise with Spirit of Gold Coast: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Gold Coast $5.19

Sample the Local Flavors in Gold Coast

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Gold Coast:

  • Tamborine Mountain: Wine Tasting Tour with 2-Course Lunch: $124
  • Full-Day Guided Wine Tour in Mt Tamborine From Gold Coast : $132


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yamaguchi and Gold Coast, we can see that Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Gold Coast?

Gold Coast has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Gold Coast, 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 Gold Coast?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Gold Coast. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Gold Coast for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Gold Coast in the summer. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in January.

Gold Coast 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 Gold Coastin January. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Gold Coast 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Gold Coast in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Gold Coast. 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 Gold Coast because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Yamaguchi is cooler than Gold Coast. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yamaguchi in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Gold Coast averages at about 22°C (71°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Gold Coast. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Gold Coastin April. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Gold Coast 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Gold Coast in the Winter?

Both Gold Coast 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, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Gold Coast this time of year.

In January, Yamaguchi is generally much colder than Gold Coastin July. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 6°C (42°F), and Gold Coast fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gold Coastin July. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Gold Coast 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Gold Coast in the Spring?

Both Gold Coast 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 Gold Coast for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Yamaguchi is cooler than Gold Coast in the spring. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Gold Coast fluctuates around 21°C (69°F)in October.

Gold Coast gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Gold Coastin October. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Gold Coast receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Gold Coast 21°C (69°F)

Typical Weather for Gold Coast and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Gold Coast
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 157 mm (6.2 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 24°C (76°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)


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