A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Queenstown for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Queenstown, 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 serene, tranquil, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a active, adventure-filled, and outdoorsy city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Yamaguchi and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Queenstown than Yamaguchi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Queenstown is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its museums. Queenstown is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery. Also, Queenstown is famous for Kawarau Bridge. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Yamaguchi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Yamaguchi or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Yamaguchi is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Queenstown is among the best in the world. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Yamaguchi is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Yamaguchi is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Queenstown is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yamaguchi makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Yamaguchi or Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

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

Queenstown has a large number of nightlife venues. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

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 Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown 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, Queenstown draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

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 Queenstown?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Queenstown. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Queenstown Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown 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 Queenstown. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

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 Queenstown Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

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

Queenstown has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

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 Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown 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 Queenstown, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

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 Queenstown Better for Students?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

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

Queenstown is a great city to visit as a student. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.


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

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Yamaguchi and Queenstown.

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

You'll find some public transit in Queenstown, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that travels around town.

Is Yamaguchi or Queenstown a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Queenstown

Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is a very walkable destination. In town, many of the sights and activities can be reached 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 Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

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 food and shopping around the city of Queenstown. 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 Queenstown?

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 shopping and skiing around the active destination of Queenstown. 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 Queenstown?

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 skiing and nightlife around the spirited city of Queenstown. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

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.

Queenstown is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Queenstown, 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 Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Queenstown 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 Queenstown is $104. 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 Queenstown in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Queenstown? 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 Queenstown


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 Queenstown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Queenstown $10

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 Queenstown

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Queenstown:

  • Tasman Glacier Helihike with Flight Transfers: $890
  • Milford Sound Cruise with Helicopter Transfer: $736
  • Queenstown Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Queenstown: $68
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Central: $178
  • Private Transfer from Wanaka to Queenstown Airport: $178
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown to Milford Sound Cruise Port: $166
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown Central to Wanaka: $178
  • Private Transfer from Queenstown Airport to Milford Sound Port: $166
  • From Mount Cook Transfer w/ Guided Landmark Tour: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

Prices for flights to both Queenstown 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
    Queenstown $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Queenstown

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Queenstown.

  • Bar Crawl with 5 Free Shots and Pizza: $18
  • Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Queenstown $21

Typical Entertainment Prices in Queenstown

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Queenstown are as follows:


  • Skyline Gondola (for 2)
    $30

Tours and Activities in Queenstown

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Queenstown are as follows:

  • 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour from Queenstown: $136
  • Arrowtown and Wanaka Highlights Tour from Queenstown: $126
  • Boutique Winery Half-Day Tour & Vineyard Platter-Style Lunch: $142
  • Challenger Self Drive Guided Buggy Tour from Queenstown: $290
  • Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown: $265
  • Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience: $185
  • Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Queenstown: $259
  • E-Bike Adventures Through the Wineries in Gibbston: $100
  • E-Bike Rental for Lake Dunstan Trail Experience : $112
  • Escape Adventure AR Experience in Queenstown: $24
  • Family Adventures Rafting and Sightseeing Trip in Queenstown: $180
  • From Queenstown/Glenorchy: Dart River Jet Boat Tour: $178

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Queenstown $8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Queenstown

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Queenstown:

  • Ice Bar Crawl: $24
  • Queenstown & Gibbston Valley: Hop-On Hop-Off Wine Tours: $53
  • Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Bannockburn - departing Queenstown: $60
  • Afternoon brewery tour with lunch: $110
  • Afternoon Wine Tasting Tour with 3 Wineries: $110
  • Original Wine Tour: $112
  • Classic Wine Tour: $118
  • Queenstown Classic Wine Tour: 3 Vineyards, Caves and Cheeseboard: $120
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $130
  • Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour: $132
  • The Ultimate Luxury Hop on Hop off Wine Tour: $138
  • Central Otago Wine Tour from Queenstown Including Lunch: $144


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Queenstown?

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