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

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Wellington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Wellington, 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. The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Wellington

Wellington is a laid-back, funky, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Wellington travel costs.

Yamaguchi and Wellington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Wellington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wellington than Yamaguchi, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Wellington is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums and attractions and impressive beauty. Wellington is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. It is also home to Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Wellington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Yamaguchi is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wellington. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.


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

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Both Yamaguchi and Wellington offer a number of very good 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, Wellington makes for a great culinary experience. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

Is Yamaguchi or Wellington Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

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

Wellington has a large number of nightlife venues. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington Better for Beaches?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wellington. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.


Is Yamaguchi or Wellington Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Yamaguchi and Wellington are both places where visitors can find good 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 Wellington. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Wellington?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Wellington. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Wellington More Beautiful?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Yamaguchi is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Wellington is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Yamaguchi or Wellington Better for Families?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Wellington 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 Wellington. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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 Wellington Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Yamaguchi is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Wellington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Wellington is a good town for couples to visit. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space around town.

Is Yamaguchi or Wellington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Wellington 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 Wellington. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow 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 Wellington Better for Students?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Wellington is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Wellington 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 Wellington can get you to most places easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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 Wellington a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi
Wellington

Wellington 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.

Wellington is a very walkable destination. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wellington or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Wellington?

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

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

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


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

One day in Yamaguchi or Wellington?

With museums and food around the scenic 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 shopping and museums around the city of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

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 museums and nightlife around the compact destination of Wellington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Wellington?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the compact city of Wellington. 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 Wellington?

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.

Wellington 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Wellington 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 Wellington is $124. 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 Wellington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yamaguchi $47
    Wellington $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yamaguchi $94
    Wellington $120
Compare Hotels in Yamaguchi and Wellington

Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi or Wellington? 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 Wellington


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 Wellington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yamaguchi $21
    Wellington $12

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Wellington

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

  • Wētā Workshop Guided Tour Ticket + Transfer: $58
  • Wellington Airport(WLG) to Wellington-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $156
  • Private Transfer from Wellington hotels to Wellington Cruise Port: $106
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Port to Wellington Airport (WLG): $26
  • Private Transfer from Wellington Airport (WLG) to Wellington Port: $26
  • Private Large SUV Airport Transfers Wellington - Executive Travel: $58
  • Private Airport Transfer Service Vice Versa in Wellington by SUV: $75
  • Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Yamaguchi or Wellington?

Prices for flights to both Wellington 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
    Wellington $51

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

Typical Food Prices in Wellington

For Wellington, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner
    $8.87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Wellington

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

  • 3 Hour Walking Food Tour: $126

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yamaguchi $8.69
    Wellington $16

Tours and Activities in Yamaguchi

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

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

Tours and Activities in Wellington

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

  • Auckland: Wētā Workshop Unleashed Creative Classes Ticket: $38
  • Axe Throwing Lesson and Tournament: $33
  • Craft beers & car museum - Half Day Tour incl beverage samples: $99
  • Craft beers & car museums - Full Day Tour incl beverage samples: $168
  • Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour : $53
  • From Half-Day Foodie Tour of the Wairarapa: $110
  • From Kapiti Island Classic Guided Day Tour: $292
  • From Martinborough Winery Tour: $112
  • From Remutaka Rail Trail eBike Tour: $129
  • Full Day Guided Wellington Tour including Cable Car: $150
  • Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour: $177
  • Full Day Tour of Wellington: $177

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yamaguchi $8.21
    Wellington $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Wellington

Also in Wellington, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wellington Craft Brewery Half-Day Guided Tour with Tastings: $100
  • From Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour: $170
  • Exclusive Martinborough Wine Tour: $210
  • Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch: $395


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


Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Wellington?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Wellington, 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 Wellington?

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

Both Wellington and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Wellington for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Yamaguchi is generally a little warmer than Wellingtonin January. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 26°C (79°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Wellingtonin January. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F) 
    Wellington 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Wellington in the Autumn?

Both Wellington and Yamaguchi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wellington because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Yamaguchi is a little warmer than Wellington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Wellington fluctuates around 15°C (58°F)in April.

Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in October than Wellingtonin April. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F) 
    Wellington 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Wellington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Wellington. The winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wellington this time of year.

In the winter, Yamaguchi is much colder than Wellington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yamaguchi in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Wellington averages at about 10°C (49°F)in July.

Wellington receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Yamaguchi usually receives less rain than Wellingtonin July. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F) 
    Wellington 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Wellington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Wellington. The natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wellington for the beaches.

In April, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Wellingtonin October. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 14°C (57°F), and Wellington fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Yamaguchi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Wellingtonin October. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Wellington receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F) 
    Wellington 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Wellington and Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Wellington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in) 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (58°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)