A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Surfers Paradise for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

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 Koyasan and Surfers Paradise. 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.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a traditional, peaceful, and serene town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Koyasan travel costs.

Surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise is a thrilling, active, and ritzy city. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Surfers Paradise travel costs.

Koyasan and Surfers Paradise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Surfers Paradise. Although Koyasan and Surfers Paradise are both popular with visitors, Surfers Paradise has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Surfers Paradise is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Koyasan is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Surfers Paradise is more touristy than Koyasan and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glamourous party scene, colorful amusement parks, and active water sports. It is also home to the SkyPoint Observation Deck. Koyasan is popular for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Koyasan different from Surfers Paradise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Koyasan and Surfers Paradise.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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).

Surfers Paradise offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For the best views of the coastline head to the SkyPoint Observation Deck at the Q1 Resort and Spa. It's in Australia's tallest residential tower. You can also visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, or the Sea World Marine Park, as well as countless other amusement parks or entertainment centers.

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

Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise. There's a trendy food scene with a number of award winning restaurants in the area. There are high end seafood restaurants, modern international eateries, and niche food bars that all cater to the tourist crowd.

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 Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Nightlife?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Surfers Paradise just to party. This high energy area is filled with glitzy nightclubs and trendy cocktail bars. There are parties that last until the early morning hours and you'll find the most active nightlife scene along the famous Surfers Paradise glitter strip.

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 Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Resorts?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Surfers Paradise for its luxury resorts. The high-rise skyline is filled with luxury resorts and trendy hotels. Fancy pools and rooftop views make this is a glitzy and lively place to stay.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Surfers Paradise is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Surfers Paradise. There's no shortage of scuba diving and snorkeling excursions that leave from the area. You'll see a diversity of marine life and interesting undersea reefs.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Beaches?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Surfers Paradise offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. It's at the heart of the Gold Coast, and you'll enjoy two kilometers of golden sand and beautiful surf. The beaches are lined with high rise buildings and there's plenty of energy and amenities for visitors. This is a popular tourist destination and there is no shortage of water sports and other activities along the beaches.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Surfers Paradise 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.

Surfers Paradise does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koyasan and Surfers Paradise, and they are good.

Koyasan offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Surfers Paradise is a good destination for hiking. Outside of town you'll find many coastal hikes and inland trails. You can see waterfalls or breathtaking views of the water.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Surfers Paradise make it a world-class shopping destination. Beachside markets sell local items. There are also large shopping malls that are filled with international fashion brands and boutique shops that sell unique items.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise More Beautiful?

Koyasan is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.

Surfers Paradise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Families?

Surfers Paradise 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, Surfers Paradise is very family-friendly. It's filled with activities that kids and adults will enjoy. There's everything from sandy beaches to amusement park rides and entertainment centers. Check out Infinity, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, or the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There's also countless minigolf places, kayaking, and other water sports.

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 Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Couples?

Koyasan and Surfers Paradise both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Surfers Paradise is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Walk along the beach or take in the view from Q1 SkyPoint. There are also many fun-filled adventure activities as well as restaurants and a lively party scene.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Surfers Paradise is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Surfers Paradise. Backpackers who want fun entertainment, a lively beach scene, and water sports will find their place here. There are also hostels with reasonable rates and plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. 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 Koyasan or Surfers Paradise Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koyasan and Surfers Paradise.

You'll find some public transit in Koyasan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

While Surfers Paradise offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Without a car, you can use the shuttle buses, public buses, and light rail to get around.

Is Koyasan or Surfers Paradise a more walkable city?

Koyasan is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Surfers Paradise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Surfers Paradise is somewhat walkable. There are walking and bike paths around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Surfers Paradise or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Both Koyasan and Surfers Paradise have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Surfers Paradise than in Koyasan. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Surfers Paradise.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Surfers Paradise 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 Surfers Paradise.

One day in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Surfers Paradise, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Koyasan is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Surfers Paradise, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Koyasan is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Surfers Paradise is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Surfers Paradise has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

Koyasan is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Surfers Paradise. In Surfers Paradise, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koyasan and Surfers Paradise, we can see that Surfers Paradise is more expensive. And not only is Koyasan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Koyasan is in Asia and Surfers Paradise 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 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 Surfers Paradise would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Surfers Paradise 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 Koyasan Expensive? and Is Surfers Paradise Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise?

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

Should I visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Surfers Paradise. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Koyasan is around the same temperature as Surfers Paradise. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koyasan in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. In the summer, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein January. Koyasan gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 256 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Surfers Paradise. Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koyasan usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Surfers Paradisein January. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise in the Autumn?

Both Surfers Paradise and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Surfers Paradise because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Koyasan is generally cooler than Surfers Paradisein April. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 19°C (65°F), and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Surfers Paradise. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during autumn. Koyasan gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Surfers Paradise. It's quite rainy in Koyasan. In October, Koyasan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Surfers Paradisein April. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise in the Winter?

Both Surfers Paradise and Koyasan during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Surfers Paradise this time of year.

Koyasan is much colder than Surfers Paradise in the winter. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Surfers Paradise fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

In Surfers Paradise, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Surfers Paradisein July. Koyasan gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Surfers Paradise receives 226 hours of full sun.

Koyasan usually gets less rain in January than Surfers Paradisein July. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Surfers Paradise in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Surfers Paradise. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Surfers Paradise for the beaches.

In the spring, Koyasan is cooler than Surfers Paradise. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koyasan in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Surfers Paradise averages at about 21°C (69°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Surfers Paradise this time of the year. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Surfers Paradise during spring. Koyasan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Surfers Paradise receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

Surfers Paradise receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Surfers Paradisein October. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Surfers Paradise receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Surfers Paradise and Koyasan