A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Dewa Sanzan for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Dewa Sanzan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a sacred, remote, and traditional religious site. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Dewa Sanzan travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is famous for Uluru. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dewa Sanzan and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Dewa Sanzan.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan More Beautiful?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly national park. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Dewa Sanzan is a good national park for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dewa Sanzan is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Dewa Sanzan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than in Dewa Sanzan. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-3 days is enough time in Dewa Sanzan.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Dewa Sanzan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Dewa Sanzan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Dewa Sanzan 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock).

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the other-worldly national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Dewa Sanzan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the religious destination of Dewa Sanzan. It offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this religious site makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this religious site.

Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

The spectacular national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers museums and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums around the destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dewa Sanzan is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Dewa Sanzan, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Dewa Sanzan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is in Pacific and Dewa Sanzan is in Asia, 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 Dewa Sanzan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dewa Sanzan 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Dewa Sanzan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Dewa Sanzan Expensive?.