A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kobe vs. Wollongong for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kobe or Wollongong?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kobe and Wollongong. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kobe

Kobe is a under-rated, multicultural, and quaint city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kobe travel costs.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a student-friendly, trendy, and vibrant coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Wollongong travel costs.

Kobe and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kobe or Wollongong?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Wollongong than Kobe. While Kobe is larger than Wollongong, Wollongong has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Wollongong is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Kobe attracts visitors for its shopping. Wollongong is more touristy than Kobe and is known for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also well known for Grand Pacific Drive. Kobe is famous for its world renowned Kobe beef and its hot spring resorts.

How is Kobe different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kobe or Wollongong?

Wollongong is great for its historical sights. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

Kobe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower and visit the high energy area of Kobe Harborland. The Disaster Reduction Museum and the nearby Human Renovation Museum are both fascinating to visit as well. Also check out the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art and Rokko Island.

Is the Food Better in Kobe or Wollongong? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kobe and Wollongong can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Kobe has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most people immediately think of Kobe beef when they think of this city, but there are also many other specialties around town. You'll find good sushi as well as akashiyaki, which are octopus dumplings. The city long served as a major port for Japan, so there is a strong Chinese influence over the cuisine. In particular, you should try the chuka ryori (a Chinese dumpling).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Wollongong makes for a great culinary experience. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Wollongong is great for its evening party scene. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Wollongong for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kobe. The nightlife scene is a bit subdued, but that doesn't mean you won't find local bars, karaoke, and live music venues where you can hang out. Many visitors enjoy having a chill night out with a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Wollongong is great for the beach. However, Kobe is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Wollongong for it's beautiful beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Kobe is not a beach destination.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Wollongong is a good destination for hiking. However, Kobe is not a hiking destination.

Wollongong offers some nice hiking trails. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Kobe is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kobe or Wollongong?

Kobe is great for its shopping areas. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kobe. It's fun and convenient to shop here, as the best shopping districts are easy to access from the train stations. Sannomiya is a hub of transportation and shopping in the city, but also check out Kobe Harborland for its diverse stores and high energy.

Wollongong is a great destination for shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Families?

Wollongong is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wollongong. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Kobe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly attractions around Kobe Harborland including a ferris wheel, Anpanman Museum, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. Kids will also enjoy running around Meriken Park or Mount Rokko. Kids who like animals will enjoy a visit to Kobe Animal Kingdom.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Couples?

Wollongong is great for couples. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Wollongong is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

Kobe is a nice destination for couples. There's a romantic view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower. There are also many parks and a waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the Maya View Line Kikuseidai, which is particularly nice in the evening.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Kobe and Wollongong are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kobe. Although many tourists and backpackers don't put Kobe on their itinerary, there are still a handful of hostels around the city.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Wollongong. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kobe is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Kobe is not popular with students.

Is Kobe or Wollongong Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wollongong is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Wollongong. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

Kobe has a few public transit options. While there is a subway system, it's not particularly useful to tourists. There is a bus service that operates a line that targets tourists.

Is Kobe or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Wollongong is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Wollongong is a very walkable destination. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

Kobe is somewhat walkable. It's relatively easy to walk around many parts of the city, although some areas are quite hilly. You can walk from Shin-Kobe Bullet Train Station to the water in about half an hour.

For even more information, also check out Is Kobe Worth Visiting? and Is Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Kobe?

How long in Kobe or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Kobe or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kobe, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wollongong than Kobe 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 Wollongong.

One day in Kobe or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the quaint city of Kobe, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kobe, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Wollongong. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kobe or Wollongong?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kobe, 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 city.

Wollongong is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Kobe or Wollongong?

Kobe, a popular city, 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Wollongong. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kobe or Wollongong?

Kobe 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.

The vibrant coastal city of Wollongong offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Australia, and The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Kobe and Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Kobe is in Asia and Wollongong is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Kobe or Wollongong?

Kobe has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Wollongong. When comparing the sizes of Kobe and Wollongong, 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 Kobe or Wollongong?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wollongong is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Kobe has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Kobe or Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong and Kobe are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kobe this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wollongong for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kobe is a little warmer than Wollongong in the summer. The daily temperature in Kobe averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. Kobe usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during summer. Kobe gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Kobe. In July, Kobe usually receives more rain than Wollongongin January. Kobe gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kobe or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong and Kobe during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kobe for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Kobe is around the same temperature as Wollongong. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kobe in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Wollongong averages at about 18°C (64°F)in April.

In the autumn, Kobe often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin April. Kobe gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kobe. Kobe usually gets more rain in October than Wollongongin April. Kobe gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kobe or Wollongong in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kobe and Wollongong. Many visitors come to Kobe in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Wollongong for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Kobe is generally much colder than Wollongongin July. Daily temperatures in Kobe average around 5°C (42°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. Kobe usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Kobe gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kobe usually receives less rain than Wollongongin July. Kobe gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kobe or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kobe as well as Wollongong. Most visitors come to Kobe for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Kobe is cooler than Wollongong in the spring. The daily temperature in Kobe averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. In the spring, Kobe often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin October. Kobe gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun.

Kobe receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kobe usually gets more rain in April than Wollongongin October. Kobe gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Kobe