A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Yokohama vs. Koyasan for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Yokohama or Koyasan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Koyasan, 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.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a diverse, bright, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a peaceful, serene, and spiritual town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Yokohama and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yokohama. Although Yokohama and Koyasan are popular destinations, Yokohama has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yokohama is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Koyasan is more touristy than Yokohama and is known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. It is also well known for the Yokohama Chinatown.

How is Yokohama different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Both Yokohama and Koyasan have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yokohama can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Koyasan. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Is the Food Better in Yokohama or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yokohama is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Yokohama. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Yokohama is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Yokohama know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is well known for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Koyasan to see the historical old town. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Koyasan has hiking trails worth exploring. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Yokohama is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Yokohama is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Families?

Yokohama is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Yokohama is very family-friendly. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Koyasan are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Koyasan is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yokohama and Koyasan are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Yokohama. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Koyasan is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Students?

Yokohama is a good destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

Yokohama is popular with students. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Koyasan is not popular with students.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yokohama is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Yokohama has some very good public transit options. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Yokohama or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Yokohama and Koyasan both are great when exploring on foot.

Yokohama is very walkable. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

Koyasan is a very walkable city. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yokohama or Koyasan to fill your time. In our opinion, Yokohama has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Yokohama than Koyasan. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yokohama than Koyasan 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 Yokohama.

One day in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Because Yokohama is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Because Yokohama is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Yokohama has to offer.

Koyasan 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Yokohama or Koyasan?

Yokohama 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.

Koyasan 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.

A week in Yokohama or Koyasan?

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

Koyasan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yokohama and Koyasan, we can see that Yokohama is more expensive. And not only is Koyasan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koyasan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koyasan 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 Yokohama would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yokohama than you might in Koyasan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Yokohama Expensive? and Is Koyasan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Yokohama or Koyasan?

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 Yokohama or Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Koyasan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yokohama in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Koyasan averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In July, Yokohama usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koyasan in the Autumn?

Both Koyasan and Yokohama during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 18°C (64°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Koyasan. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets more rain in October than Koyasan. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Koyasan. Most visitors come to Yokohama for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the museums and the cuisine.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the winter. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Yokohama usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koyasan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Koyasan. The spring months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

In the spring, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yokohama in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Koyasan averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the spring, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Koyasan. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Koyasan. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Yokohama