A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Nikko for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Nikko?

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

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

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nikko than Yamaguchi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nikko is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its nightlife. Nikko is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Also, Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan 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 Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Both Yamaguchi and Nikko 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, Nikko makes for a great culinary experience. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Yamaguchi or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Yamaguchi is adequate for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Yamaguchi or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

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

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.


Is Yamaguchi or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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 Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

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 Nikko?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nikko has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Nikko Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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 Nikko. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

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 Nikko Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

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

Nikko has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

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 Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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 Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

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

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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 Nikko can get you to most places easily. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

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 Nikko a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Nikko

Nikko 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.

Nikko is a very walkable destination. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

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 Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Nikko?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Nikko?

In Yamaguchi, many people enjoy the food and museums that this scenic 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.

Even though Nikko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Yamaguchi or Nikko?

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.

Nikko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Yamaguchi or Nikko?

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.

Nikko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Nikko?

You'll find museums and food around the serene 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.

Nikko 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nikko or Yamaguchi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yamaguchi is $81, while the average daily cost in Nikko is $83. 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 Nikko in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Nikko $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Nikko $94
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Nikko

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Nikko? 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 Nikko


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 Nikko Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Nikko -

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: $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nikko

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

  • Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Narita Airport Private Departure Transfer: $266
  • Kinugawa Osen to Tokyo Haneda Airport Departure Private Transfer: $266

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Nikko?

Prices for flights to both Nikko 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
    Nikko $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.49
    Nikko $22

Tours and Activities in Nikko

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

  • Nikko Custom Full Day Tour: $236
  • Nikko Custom Half Day Tour: $149
  • Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $142
  • Visit the Unexplored Regions of Lake Chuzenji--Scenic Trekking and Rafting Tour: $79
  • World Heritage Nikko Walking Tour - Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi: $61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $8.02
    Nikko $15


When comparing the travel costs between Yamaguchi and Nikko, we can see that Nikko 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 Nikko Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Nikko?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Nikko, 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 Nikko?

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 Nikko in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Yamaguchi is around the same temperature as Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yamaguchi in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Nikko 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 Nikko. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Nikko 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Nikko. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 19°C (65°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Nikko. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Nikko 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nikko can be very cold during winter. Yamaguchi is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Nikko. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Nikko 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko 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 Nikko because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yamaguchi in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Nikko 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 Nikko. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Nikko 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Nikko and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Nikko
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 206 mm (8.1 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 25°C (77°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 27°C (80°F) 195 mm (7.7 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 32 mm (1.2 in)


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