A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Okinawa for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

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 Chiang Mai and Okinawa. 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.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a cultural, welcoming, and natural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Okinawa

Okinawa is a idyllic, tropical, and lush archipelago. Many visitors also come to Okinawa because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Okinawa travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Okinawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Okinawa. Chiang Mai is bigger than Okinawa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Okinawa is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Okinawa and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Okinawa is well known for its pristine tropical environment, stunning blue water, and impressive marine life.

How is Chiang Mai different from Okinawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Chiang Mai on the map. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

Okinawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Okinawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Okinawa. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Chiang Mai and Okinawa.

The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everybody. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

Okinawa offers plenty to do in the evening. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Resorts?

Okinawa is a great archipelago for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Okinawa to choose from. There are large resorts as well as smaller, elegant hotels. If you want to be near the water, check out the coastal areas of Onna, Miyakojima, and Ishigaki.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Okinawa. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Beaches?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Okinawa offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Chiang Mai. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Okinawa does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Chiang Mai and Okinawa, and they are terrific.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

People visit Okinawa specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for shopping.

Chiang Mai is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Okinawa. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa More Beautiful?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Okinawa because of it's amazing beauty. The islands are filled with beautiful natural environments that range from white sand beaches to mangrove forests. The water is turquoise and the setting is idyllic for vacationers.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Families?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Okinawa is very family-friendly. There are so many kid-friendly activities in the area, that this has long been a favorite family vacation destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the snorkeling, beaches, mangroves, boat rides, and adventure activities like ziplining. Kayaking in Yambaru Mangrove Forest is a favorite activity, but also check out the sea turtles at Ikei Island.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Couples?

Okinawa is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Okinawa is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning beaches, world class snorkeling, and relaxing resorts, couples and honeymooners will love a trip to these beautiful islands. There's a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural activities that will keep any couple entertained.

Chiang Mai is a very popular place to visit for couples. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Okinawa is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Okinawa. Despite being one of the most fascinating places in Japan to visit, it can be challenging as a backpacker. There aren't many hostels in the area and transportation can be a bit tricky.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Okinawa both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Okinawa has a few public transit options. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.

Is Chiang Mai or Okinawa a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Okinawa is not a good archipelago for its walkability.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable city. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

Okinawa is generally not a very walkable city. The islands range from developed to remote, so if you want to efficiently explore, it's helpful to have a car or at least a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Okinawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Okinawa or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Both Chiang Mai and Okinawa have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Okinawa.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Okinawa 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic archipelago of Okinawa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Okinawa, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Okinawa, a popular archipelago, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Okinawa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Okinawa, we can see that Okinawa is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Mai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Mai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Mai 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 Okinawa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Okinawa than you might in Chiang Mai.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Okinawa. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Okinawa, 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 Chiang Mai or Okinawa?

Okinawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Okinawa in the Summer?

Both Okinawa and Chiang Mai during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Okinawa this time of year.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally around the same temperature as Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

In Okinawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 258 hours of full sun.

Okinawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Okinawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Okinawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Okinawa for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Okinawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Okinawa fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 174 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Okinawa receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Okinawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Okinawa. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Okinawa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Okinawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Okinawa averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Okinawa receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Okinawa. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Okinawa in the Spring?

Both Okinawa and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Okinawa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Okinawa. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Okinawa fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Okinawa during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Okinawa receives 149 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Okinawa. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Okinawa. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Okinawa receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Okinawa and Chiang Mai