A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shanghai vs. Yaeyama Islands for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands. 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.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan, professional, and diverse port city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Shanghai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Shanghai travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a tropical, pristine, and luxurious archipelago. You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai. Although Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Shanghai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Shanghai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Yaeyama Islands attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Shanghai is famous for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also well known for The Bund. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Shanghai different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Shanghai is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Shanghai that are not to be missed. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shanghai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Shanghai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Yaeyama Islands for its luxury resorts. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Shanghai is not a resort destination.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Shanghai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Yaeyama Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

Shanghai is not a beach destination.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular spot for hiking. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Shanghai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Shanghai is terrific for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shanghai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yaeyama Islands as well. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

With stunning beauty, Shanghai attracts visitors from all around. Its distinct, futuristic skyline and scenic waterside strolls make this city a beautiful place to explore.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Yaeyama Islands. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands both terrific destinations for a couple.

Shanghai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city getaway.

Yaeyama Islands makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shanghai is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Shanghai. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Students?

Shanghai is a well-known place for students. However, Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Many students visit Shanghai. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

Yaeyama Islands is not popular with students.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Shanghai can move around easily with public transportation. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

Public transit is mostly limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Shanghai is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Shanghai is very walkable. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable port city. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Shanghai Worth Visiting? and Is Yaeyama Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Shanghai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Shanghai than Yaeyama Islands. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Shanghai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Shanghai than Yaeyama Islands 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 Shanghai.

One day in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful archipelago of Yaeyama Islands offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Shanghai is a big city with plenty to do. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Shanghai is a great place to explore. This port city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yaeyama Islands, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Shanghai. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Yaeyama Islands is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archipelago offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands, we can see that Shanghai 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In July, Shanghai is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 28°C (83°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Yaeyama Islands. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually receives less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. It's quite rainy in Shanghai. In July, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Shanghai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shanghai this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Shanghai is cooler than Yaeyama Islands in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Shanghai usually gets less rain in October than Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Yaeyama Islands. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shanghai. In the winter, Shanghai is much colder than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shanghai in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun in the winter.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Yaeyama Islands. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Shanghai is generally much colder than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 15°C (58°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai receives a lot of rain in the spring. Shanghai usually gets less rain in April than Yaeyama Islands. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. May to June in Yaeyama Islands is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Shanghai