A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Tauranga for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Tauranga, 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. With stunning beauty, Yamaguchi attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a relaxing, nature-filled, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, Tauranga attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Tauranga travel costs.

Yamaguchi and Tauranga: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Tauranga than Yamaguchi. While Yamaguchi is larger than Tauranga, Tauranga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tauranga is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Yamaguchi attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and food. Tauranga is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails. It is also well known for Mount Maunganui. Yamaguchi is famous for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Yamaguchi is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Yamaguchi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.


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

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Yamaguchi is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Yamaguchi is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Tauranga 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 Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

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 Tauranga Better for Beaches?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Tauranga is a very popular place for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tauranga. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.


Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Tauranga 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 Tauranga. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

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 Tauranga?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

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

Tauranga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga More Beautiful?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Yamaguchi and Tauranga.

With stunning beauty, Yamaguchi attracts visitors from all around. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Tauranga is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.


Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Tauranga 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.

Tauranga is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

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 Tauranga Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Yamaguchi and Tauranga are both very good 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 Tauranga frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Tauranga 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 Tauranga, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

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

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Yamaguchi and Tauranga.

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

You'll find some public transit in Tauranga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Yamaguchi or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Tauranga

Yamaguchi and Tauranga are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Tauranga is somewhat walkable. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

The beautiful town of Yamaguchi offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Tauranga. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Tauranga?

Yamaguchi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yamaguchi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Tauranga. 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 Tauranga?

Yamaguchi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal town of Tauranga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Tauranga is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Tauranga or Yamaguchi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Yamaguchi is $100, while the average daily cost in Tauranga is $118. 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 Tauranga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $47
    Tauranga $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $94
    Tauranga $148
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Tauranga

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Tauranga? 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 Tauranga


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 Tauranga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $21
    Tauranga $6.75

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: $399

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

Prices for flights to both Tauranga 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 $40
    Tauranga $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yamaguchi

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

  • Yamaguchi ;Healthy tea drinking ; dinner: $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.69
    Tauranga $10

Tours and Activities in Yamaguchi

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

  • Kiku Plan - Wagashi making and tea ceremony experience -: $24
  • Fuji Plan - Kimono Experience and City Walk -: $37

Tours and Activities in Tauranga

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

  • 6hr Hobbiton Movie Set Tour - Departs Tauranga: $155
  • 7 Hours Te Puia Rotorua Tour from Tauranga with Concert: $164
  • Boutique tour , Mt Maunganui, NZ farm, Rotorua lakes/geothermal : $138
  • From Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise: $101
  • From Half-Day Swimming with Dolphins Tour: $96
  • Guided Māori History and Culture Tour to Rotorua and Tauranga: $143
  • Half Day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise - Tauranga: $104
  • Hobbiton movie set tour and a lot more beautiful NZ sights: $240
  • Katikati Avocado Adventure: $35
  • Mount Maunganui: Hot Ocean Water Pools Entry Ticket: $16
  • Mount Maunganui: Pohutukawa grove and Beach Walking Tour: $40
  • New Zealand Tauranga Tour with Transportation and Snacks: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $8.21
    Tauranga $10


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Tauranga?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Tauranga. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Tauranga, 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.