A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Surfers Paradise for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise, 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 tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a glamourous, high energy, and thrilling city. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise: 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 Surfers Paradise?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise are popular destinations, Surfers Paradise has more sights and attractions for tourists. Surfers Paradise is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Yamaguchi attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also well known for the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Yamaguchi is famous for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.


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

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Both Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise offer a number of superb 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, Surfers Paradise makes for a great culinary experience. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

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

Surfers Paradise is a world class party destination. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

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

Surfers Paradise offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.


Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

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

Many visitors go to Surfers Paradise to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Surfers Paradise are among the best in the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise are both places where visitors can find nice hiking trails.

Yamaguchi has hiking trails worth exploring. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Surfers Paradise. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.


Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Surfers Paradise specifically to go shopping. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise are both superb 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 Surfers Paradise frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.


Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise.

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

You'll find some public transit in Surfers Paradise, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Surfers Paradise

Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.


For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Surfers Paradise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Surfers Paradise. 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 Surfers Paradise?

You'll find food and museums around the serene town of Yamaguchi. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy destination of Surfers Paradise. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

Yamaguchi is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


A week in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise, 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $46
    Surfers Paradise $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $92
    Surfers Paradise $132
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise? 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 Surfers Paradise


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
    Surfers Paradise $11

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 Surfers Paradise

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

  • Private Transfer to Brisbane/BNE Airport from Gold Coast/OOL Airport( 1-7 pax): $229
  • Private Transfer from Gold Coast Airport - Surfers Paradise: $50
  • Private Transfer from Brisbane Airports to Surfers Paradise: $106
  • Luxury Private Transfer between Gold Coast Airport and Gold Coast city (1-7pax) : $89
  • Gold Coast Theme Parks: Shared Hotel Transfers: $14
  • Gold Coast Hot Air Balloon + Winery Breakfast + Return Transfers: $291
  • Gold Coast Airport Transfers Corporate Chauffeurs Gold Coast: $119
  • All-Inclusive Dolphin & Tangalooma Wrecks Day Cruise (Gold Coast Transfer): $149

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

Prices for flights to both Surfers Paradise 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
    Surfers Paradise $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Surfers Paradise

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

  • Buffet Dinner Sightseeing Cruise: $78

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.39
    Surfers Paradise $23

Typical Entertainment Prices in Surfers Paradise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Surfers Paradise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Surf Lesson
    $78

Tours and Activities in Surfers Paradise

For Surfers Paradise, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Evening Rainforest & Glow Worm Experience - Small Group Tour: $79
  • 1.5hr Jetski Tour with island stopover - SELF DRIVE - NO LICENCE NEEDED: $185
  • 2.5hrs Jetski Tour with island stopover / Self Drive / Surfers Paradise: $259
  • Barefoot Luxury Mount Tamborine Winery Tour from Gold Coast: $151
  • Body Massage Experience in Gold Coast : $98
  • Buffet Lunch Sightseeing Cruise: $59
  • Catch a Crab Tour with Optional Seafood Lunch: $53
  • Glow Worms - Nocturnal Rainforest/Waterfall Adventure: $72
  • Gold Coast 1.5-Hour Sightseeing River Cruise from Surfers Paradise: $30
  • Gold Coast City Lights Cruise: $37
  • Gold Coast Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Cruise Day Pass: $30
  • Gold Coast Quack'rDuck Amphibious Tour from Surfers Paradise: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $7.92
    Surfers Paradise $11


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Surfers Paradise. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise, 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 Surfers Paradise?

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

Both Surfers Paradise and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein January. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise and Yamaguchi during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

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

Surfers Paradise gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Surfers Paradisein April. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Surfers Paradise. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Surfers Paradise in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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


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

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Surfers Paradise. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches during these months.

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

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Yamaguchi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Surfers Paradisein October. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Surfers Paradise
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)