Yamaguchi is a serene town known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Yamaguchi and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or taking in the beauty.
How much does it cost to travel to Yamaguchi?
You should plan to spend around $102 (¥14,727) per day on your vacation in Yamaguchi. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $41 (¥5,870) on meals
- $21 (¥3,072) on local transportation
- $97 (¥14,000) on hotels
A one week trip to Yamaguchi for two people costs, on average, $1,435 (¥206,178). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$717
¥103,089
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,435
¥206,178
-
One Month
Per person
$3,075
¥441,810
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,435
¥206,178
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,870
¥412,356
-
One Month
For a couple
$6,150
¥883,620
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Yamaguchi cost?
A one week trip to Yamaguchi usually costs around $717 (¥103,089) for one person and $1,435 (¥206,178) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Yamaguchi on average costs around $1,435 (¥206,178) for one person and $2,870 (¥412,356) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Yamaguchi will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Yamaguchi on average costs around $3,075 (¥441,810) for one person and $6,150 (¥883,620) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Yamaguchi expensive to visit?
Yamaguchi is a smaller place that appeals to a wide spectrum of travelers, featuring different styles, expenditure habits, and budget ranges. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
If you're not cautious, Yamaguchi can become costly, but you can save with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $45 (¥6,443) per day, mid-range travelers spend $103 (¥14,727) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $196 (¥28,142) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Yamaguchi.
Within Asia, Yamaguchi is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Guangzhou or Xi'an.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Yamaguchi Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Yamaguchi?
The average Yamaguchi trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Yamaguchi travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Yamaguchi cost?
Yamaguchi on a Budget
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$21
(¥3,063)
|
$49
(¥7,000)
|
$93
(¥13,377)
|
Local Transportation1
|
$9
(¥1,344)
|
$21
(¥3,072)
|
$41
(¥5,869)
|
Food2
|
$18
(¥2,568)
|
$41
(¥5,870)
|
$78
(¥11,216)
|
Entertainment1
|
$4
(¥563)
|
$9
(¥1,286)
|
$17
(¥2,457)
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-6
(¥266-797)
|
$4-13
(¥607-1,821)
|
$8-24
(¥1,160-3,481)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Yamaguchi, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $45 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
The culinary scene is also a highlight for everyone in Yamaguchi, but budget travelers tend to eat street food or make their own meals in hostels, potentially missing out on the rich flavors of the local cuisine.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most travelers to Yamaguchi will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $103 per person, per day.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $196. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the town will entail a more premium price tag.
Accommodation Budget in Yamaguchi
Hotel prices in Yamaguchi can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $103, while in peak summer season it jumps to an average of $192. Budget accommodations range from $53 to $481, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Yamaguchi for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $97 (¥14,000). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $49 (¥7,000) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Yamaguchi? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Yamaguchi include:
- Super Hotel Yamaguchi Yuda Onsen starting at $63
The great public transit system in Yamaguchi gives you the option to stay outside the town, but keep in mind that while it may save you on lodging, it could cost more in transit.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than during summer, will give you cheaper lodging options and fewer tourists to navigate around.
Transportation Budget in Yamaguchi
Yamaguchi has a public transit system that connects to several key locations. There are buses through the city and prefecture. Public transport is an affordable and quick choice if it's near where you're going, with taxis and rideshares also available for added convenience.
Certain areas of Yamaguchi are fairly walkable, which helps you see more attractions. There are a number of walking trails in the area.
Public Transit: 



(good)
Walkability: 



(good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (¥3,072) per person, per day, on local transportation in Yamaguchi. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Yamaguchi is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
¥3,072
Transportation is made easy thanks to the JR Yamaguchi Line, a train that runs through the entire city. Depending on your travel plans, you can purchase a JR pass that can take you throughout the city or even throughout the country. There are also buses that run from the airport to Shin-Yamaguchi Station and a few local buses that run throughout the city's districts.
If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.
In Japan, trains are one of the fastest and lowest cost means of transportation. Getting a Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you plan to stay for several days or more. Regional and nation-wide passes are available, usually for the number of days of your choice.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer for $407 details
How much does it cost to go to Yamaguchi? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Yamaguchi will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Yamaguchi
You'll find that the food in Yamaguchi is wonderful. Be sure to spend time enjoying all the local flavors. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Yamaguchi can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Yamaguchi is $41 (¥5,870) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$41
¥5,870
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Yamaguchi is around $41 (¥5870) per person, with previous travelers spending from $18 to $78. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Yamaguchi are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $12
- Lunch: $6 to $16
- Dinner: $12 to $29
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Yamaguchi is known for three things: Fugu Ryouri, blowfish, Fugu Sashi, thinly cut sashimi, and Shirou Ryouri, which is Ice Goby. Test out local restaurants to try unique takes on each of these specialties.
Have a cup of tea and a traditional dessert at Toshiro Sakura-an, a delightful little restaurant where you can enjoy your food next to stunning gardens. For a full meal, head to Yamaguchi City Saikotei, a traditional restaurant where both politicians and writers are known to frequent.
Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.
Make a picnic for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the scenery. Visit a nearby grocery store or market, stock up on fresh goodies, and find a beautiful park or scenic spot to have your meal.
Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.
While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Yamaguchi
The appeal of Yamaguchi is evident, thanks to its museums and attractions, food, romance, and hiking.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Yamaguchi typically cost an average of $8.95 (¥1,286) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$8.95
¥1,286
Rurikoji is a Buddhist temple, famous for their five story pagoda that was built in 1442 and is ranked among the top three pagodas in Japan. After seeing the pagoda, you can walk the temple grounds, also known as Kozan Park. This area houses a small museum, main hall, and is the burial site of medieval lords.
Experience a painting come to life at the Sesshutei garden located on the grounds of the Joeiji Zen temple. Sesshutei garden was built by Zen Buddhist monk, painter, and garden designer Sesshi almost 500 years ago. The garden is a recreation of one of Sesshu's paintings and can be viewed from the main temple building.
The Xavier Memorial Church is a more recent addition to Yamaguchi; it was built in 1950 but after being destroyed in a fire, was rebuilt in 1991, giving it a much more modern flare. The church is dedicated to St. Francis Xavier who went to Japan in 1549, originally intending to stay in Kyoto, but fell in love with Yamaguchi and stayed for an entire year. The first floor is a museum while the second floor is where mass is held.
On August 6th and 7th, Yamaguchi holds their annual Star Lantern Festival, a 600-year-old tradition. During the festival the city center is adorned with bright red lanterns, creating a tunnel of light where a parade of historical figures walks through as the city around them truly comes to life.
Enjoy the natural beauty of Yamaguchi with a stroll along the Ichinosaka-gawa River where you'll find cherry blossom trees in full bloom in the spring. Bring along a picnic and relax by the shores of the river. Spend a day at the Yamaguchi Center for Arts and Media (YCAM), a cultural-arts complex that holds everything from stage performance to film screenings and even houses an exhibition center.
Museums and Attractions:
People flock to Yamaguchi for its renowned museums and famous landmarks. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.
A nice way to explore destinations in Yamaguchi is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Kiku Plan - Wagashi making and tea ceremony experience - for $24 details
- Fuji Plan - Kimono Experience and City Walk - for $38 details
Nightlife Budget in Yamaguchi
Expect a more chill and quiet nightlife in Yamaguchi. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.45 (¥1,214) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Yamaguchi per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.45
¥1,214
While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 29, 2025
Traveling in Yamaguchi
Yamaguchi, Japan
Yamaguchi, Japan is the capital city of the Yamaguchi Prefecture, located on the Western tip of Honshu, Japan. During medieval times, Yamaguchi City flourished and was essentially the capital of Japan when Kyoto was demolished by the Onin war. After 1551, the city lost this standing, although evidence of its precious prosperity can be found in the architecture and even in the planning of the city.
The climate in Yamaguchi tends to be at its best in the Spring and Fall, this is when temperatures are most comfortable and there is less rain. The summers tend to be hot and rainy and winters are much colder.
Neighborhoods & Around
Due to Yamaguchi being quite large it is split into seven districts: Old Town of Yamaguchi, Ouchi, Shin-Yamaguchi, New Town of Yamaguchi, Aio, Ajisu, and Tokuji. The majority of the districts are home to residents and local businesses. Old Town is home to the majority of tourist destinations including Rurikoji and St. Xavier's Church. It is also where you'll find the main shopping district and Yamaguchi Station. Right in between Shin-Yamagushi and New Town is where the Shin Yamaguchi Station is located-this station has a bus linking the city directly to the Yamaguchi Ube Airport.
Just outside of the Yamaguchi city center is Chomonkyo Gorge where you can take a scenic walk through the deep forest. The gorge has been designated a place of scenic beauty and has been named one of Japan's top 100 famous views. Chomonkyo has a clear stream, waterfalls, and is known for its strangely shaped rocks. The gorge is easily accessible via the JR train line from the city center.
Related:
Looking for a hostel in Japan? In search of a party in Tokyo? Traveling alone to Osaka or Tokyo?
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.