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

Should you visit Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Yamaguchi, 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 under-rated, laid-back, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a scenic, traditional, and serene town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Yokohama and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

You'll generally find more things to do in Yokohama than Yamaguchi. Yokohama is bigger than Yamaguchi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Yokohama is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Yokohama is well known for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. Also, Yokohama is famous for the Yokohama Chinatown. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yokohama different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Both Yokohama and Yamaguchi have superb 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 Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.


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

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yokohama and Yamaguchi.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Yamaguchi has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

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

Yokohama has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

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 Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

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

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

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Yokohama. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

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 Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Yokohama and Yamaguchi are both superb 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.

Yamaguchi is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.


Is Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Yokohama and Yamaguchi are notable 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.

Yamaguchi is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Is Yokohama or Yamaguchi Better for Students?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

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

Plenty of students visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Yamaguchi is not popular with students.

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

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Yokohama 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 Yokohama can get you to most places easily. 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.

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 Yokohama or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Yokohama
Yamaguchi

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yokohama or Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Yokohama than Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi. 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 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 Yokohama.


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

One day in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

People visit Yokohama because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yokohama has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A weekend in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

People visit Yokohama 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.

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.


Five days in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bright city of Yokohama. 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.

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.

A week in Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Yokohama 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.

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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Yamaguchi or Yokohama?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Yokohama is $124, while the average daily cost in Yamaguchi is $80. 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 Yokohama and Yamaguchi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yokohama $69
    Yamaguchi $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yokohama $138
    Yamaguchi $92
Compare Hotels in Yokohama and Yamaguchi

Looking for a hotel in Yokohama or Yamaguchi? 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 Yokohama


Hotels in Yamaguchi


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: Yokohama Hotel Prices and Yamaguchi Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yokohama

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Yokohama:

  • Yokohama Private Departure Transfer : from Yokohama Port or Hotels to Tokyo Hotels: $154
  • Yokohama Port: Private transfer to/from Tokyo/HND airport: $162
  • Yokohama Port: Private Transfer to/from Tokyo: $183
  • Yokohama Port: Private Transfer from/to Haneda Airport: $201
  • Yokohama Port: Private Arrival Transfers to Tokyo City Center: $189
  • Tokyo: Private One-Way Transfer to/from Yokohama Port: $110
  • Tokyo private transfer for Yokohama Port: $233
  • Shuttle Van Transfer from Yokohama(Inc.cruise port) to Tokyo: $145
  • Shuttle Van Transfer from Yokohama City to Narita Airport: $356
  • Shared Departure Transfer : Yokohama City to Haneda Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer from Yokohama Port to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND): $59
  • Private Transfer from Yokohama Cruise Port to Tokyo city hotels: $96

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: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Prices for flights to both Yamaguchi and Yokohama 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
    Yokohama $37
    Yamaguchi $22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yokohama

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Yokohama.

  • Takoyaki cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $23
  • Japanese Snack 'TAKOYAKI' Cooking Class in Tokyo, Roppongi: $58
  • Sushi Roll and Side Dish Cooking Experience in Tokyo: $79
  • 3-Hour Shared Halal-Friendly Japanese Cooking Class in Tokyo: $85
  • Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour: $110
  • Sakuragicho/Noge Walking & Local Food Tour: $116
  • Half-day Cooking Class in Yokohama Local Shopping District: $126
  • Adventurous Japanese Food Tour: $126
  • Experience Izakaya With A Mini Food Tour Of Tokyo: $165
  • Night Food Tour Starting Ginza: $165
  • Yokohama Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $184
  • Tokyo Allstar Food Tour: $245

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yokohama $29
    Yamaguchi $8.39

Tours and Activities in Yokohama

Here are a few actual costs in Yokohama for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 'Feel Yokohama!'Private tour in English Cherry blossoms Now: $84
  • "Heart of Yokohama" Walking: Experience Hill Area: $45
  • 3 Hours Private Edo Tokyo Shinjuku Entertainment Tour: $33
  • Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo : Enter the Sanctuary: $165
  • Breakfast Ramen Tour in Shinjuku: $73
  • Calligraphy Art Experience Led by a Japanese Language Instructor: $58
  • Calligraphy Experience in Kabukicho: $66
  • Cup Noodles Museum Tour with Guide in Yokohama: $65
  • Easy Ramen making experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $26
  • Experience Comparing Sake and Delicacies in shinjyuku: $33
  • Experience the history of shamisen and traveling entertainers: $107
  • Exploration Tour of Tsukiji Fish Market: $87

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yokohama $17
    Yamaguchi $7.92

Sample the Local Flavors in Yokohama

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Yokohama:

  • Tokyo Pub Crawl: $26
  • Tokyo Hidden Izakaya and Sake Small-Group Pub Tour with Local Guide: $165


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Yokohama and Yamaguchi, we can see that Yokohama 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 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 Yamaguchi.

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


Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Yamaguchi. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Yamaguchi, 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 Yokohama or Yamaguchi?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Yokohama or Yamaguchi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Yamaguchi. The summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

In July, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 25°C (78°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yokohama usually gets less rain in July than Yamaguchi. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Yokohama 25°C (78°F) 
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In October, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Yamaguchi. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Yokohama 18°C (64°F) 
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

Both Yamaguchi and Yokohama during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yokohama in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Yokohama usually gets less rain in January than Yamaguchi. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Yokohama 6°C (42°F) 
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Yokohama or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Yamaguchi. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Yokohama is generally around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 14°C (58°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Yamaguchi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Yokohama usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Yokohama 14°C (58°F) 
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Yokohama

Yokohama Yamaguchi
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 14°C (58°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 221 mm (8.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 175 mm (6.9 in) 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 13°C (55°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)


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