A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Kyoto for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Kyoto, 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 this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a cultural, fascinating, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kyoto than Yamaguchi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Kyoto is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is known for its hiking. Kyoto is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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.

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

Both Yamaguchi and Kyoto offer a number of high quality 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, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Yamaguchi or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

Kyoto is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kyoto. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

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 Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Kyoto can be explored in its historical center. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

Is Yamaguchi or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

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

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Kyoto Better for Families?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops 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 Kyoto Better for Couples?

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

Kyoto has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

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 Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto 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 Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Kyoto is a great city to visit as a student. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto can get you to most places easily. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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 Kyoto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Yamaguchi and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kyoto than in Yamaguchi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

One day in Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

In Yamaguchi, many people enjoy the food and museums that this traditional destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kyoto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yamaguchi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kyoto?

Yamaguchi is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Yamaguchi. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Kyoto. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kyoto is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yamaguchi and Kyoto, we can see that Kyoto is more expensive. And not only is Yamaguchi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Kyoto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kyoto 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 Kyoto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Kyoto?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Kyoto, 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 Kyoto?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kyoto in the Summer?

Both Kyoto and Yamaguchi during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kyoto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 26°C (79°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Kyoto 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 July than Kyoto. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kyoto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Kyoto. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kyoto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Kyoto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Kyoto fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Yamaguchi usually receives less rain than Kyoto. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kyoto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Kyoto. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Kyoto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Kyoto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yamaguchi in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Kyoto averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in January than Kyoto. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Kyoto in the Spring?

Both Kyoto and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Kyoto. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 14°C (57°F), and Kyoto fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. In April, Yamaguchi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kyoto. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kyoto receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kyoto and Yamaguchi