A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yamaguchi vs. Sapporo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

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

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

Sapporo

Sapporo is a snowy, vibrant, and laid-back city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Yamaguchi and Sapporo: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sapporo than Yamaguchi. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sapporo is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yamaguchi attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sapporo is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also well known for Odori Park. Yamaguchi is famous for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yamaguchi or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Sapporo is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Yamaguchi is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Yamaguchi is not a skiing destination.


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

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Both Yamaguchi and Sapporo 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, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Is Yamaguchi or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

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

Sapporo has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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 Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Yamaguchi is a town with good options for hiking. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sapporo. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Sapporo Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

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 Sapporo Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Yamaguchi and Sapporo are both high quality 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 Sapporo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Yamaguchi or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will 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 Sapporo Better for Students?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

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

Sapporo is a great city to visit as a student. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.


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

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Sapporo 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 Sapporo can get you to most places easily. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Sapporo

Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is a very walkable destination. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

In Yamaguchi, you'll find 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.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. 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 Sapporo?

In Yamaguchi, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yamaguchi has to offer.

People visit Sapporo because there is so much to do. 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 Sapporo?

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant city of Sapporo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yamaguchi. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Yamaguchi. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Sapporo 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 Sapporo is $107. 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 Sapporo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Sapporo $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Sapporo $128
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Sapporo

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Sapporo? 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 Sapporo


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 Sapporo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $20
    Sapporo $16

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 Sapporo

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

  • [Airport Transfer] Smoothly move between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport with a private car! one way: $139
  • SkyExpress Private Transfer: Sapporo to Otaru (8 Passengers): $297
  • Shin Chitose Airport to/from Sapporo City: Shared Transfer: $38
  • Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport: $198
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Otaru Cruise Port: $94
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $160
  • Private Transfer from Sapporo City Hotels to Muroran Cruise Port: $144
  • Private Transfer Sapporo to CTS Airport (1-9 passengers) Legal Driver Guaranteed: $180
  • Horseback-Riding in a Country Side in Sapporo - Private Transfer is Included: $158
  • Airport transfer taxi plan New Chitose Airport → Sapporo City Hotel: $122
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS): $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

Prices for flights to both Sapporo 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
    Sapporo $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sapporo

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

  • Private Market Tour, Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local in Sapporo: $82
  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour: $84
  • Japanese Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Local Professional in her Lovely Home: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.49
    Sapporo $17

Tours and Activities in Sapporo

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

  • "SHIME Parfait" Experience Sapporo's new culture: $22
  • 2 Day Tour to Icebreaker Mombetsu and Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido: $282
  • A Japanese food experience plan in Sapporo where you can enjoy tempura and 3 types of Hokkaido-only sake along with a soba making experience!: $84
  • Clearest Lake in Japan Driving tour of Shikotsu lake of Hokkaido: $142
  • English Guided Private Tour in Hokkaido : $3.38
  • Experience traditional Japanese cuisine, making soba noodles in Sapporo, in a fun and casual way.: $51
  • Exploring Hokkaido Nightlife Susukino Evening Walking Tour: $88
  • From 10-hour Customized Private Tour to Noboribetsu: $2,281
  • Full Day Private Skiing / Snowboarding Tour in Sapporo: $54
  • Half-day (4 hours) Sapporo city Tour: $189
  • Hand-rolled sushi experience tour at Sapporo Nijo Market: $45
  • Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo,Furano and Biei English/Chinese Bus Tour: $86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $8.02
    Sapporo $8.07


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Sapporo?

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

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 Sapporo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Sapporo. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sapporo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Sapporo in the summer. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Sapporo 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Sapporo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Sapporo. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Sapporo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Yamaguchi is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yamaguchi in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Sapporo averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite rainy in Sapporo. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Sapporo. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Sapporo 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Sapporo in the Winter?

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

Sapporo can be very cold during winter. In January, Yamaguchi is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 6°C (42°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. In January, Yamaguchi usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Sapporo -5°C (24°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Sapporo in the Spring?

Both Sapporo and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sapporo because of the activities around the city.

Yamaguchi is much warmer than Sapporo in the spring. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Sapporo 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Sapporo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) -4°C (24°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) -0°C (32°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 21°C (69°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 138 mm (5.4 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) -1°C (30°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)