A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Rai vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a beautiful, friendly, and charming city. Chiang Rai offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Rai travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a world renowned, majestic, and dramatic national park. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Chiang Rai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Rai. Although Chiang Rai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both popular with visitors, Chiang Rai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Rai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more touristy than Chiang Rai and is known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Chiang Rai is popular for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle. It is also home to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple).

How is Chiang Rai different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Chiang Rai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Rai is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Rai has many famous sights for visitors. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

Many visitors head to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Rai is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Chiang Rai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Rai is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Chiang Rai has a few options to choose from. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chiang Rai. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Chiang Rai. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Rai is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Chiang Rai. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

Chiang Rai offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by the mountains and filled with temples and impressive parks, this city is a beautiful place.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Chiang Rai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chiang Rai is very family-friendly. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Chiang Rai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Couples visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Chiang Rai. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Chiang Rai is lacking in options for its public transit.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has some public transit options. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Public transit is generally limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Is Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Chiang Rai is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

Chiang Rai is a very walkable destination. The old city is easy to explore on foot.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In our opinion, Chiang Rai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chiang Rai than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chiang Rai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Rai than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Rai.

One day in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The cultural destination of Chiang Rai offers shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums around the iconic national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Rai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Rai has to offer.

With museums around the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Rai is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Rai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Chiang Rai. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Rai Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.