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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a reflective, somber, and informative town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Kanchanaburi travel costs.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a tropical, pristine, and luxurious archipelago. Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Yaeyama Islands travel costs.

Kanchanaburi and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yaeyama Islands. Although Kanchanaburi and Yaeyama Islands are popular destinations, Yaeyama Islands has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yaeyama Islands is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kanchanaburi attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Kanchanaburi is famous for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Yaeyama Islands is famous for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches. It is also well known for Nishihama Beach.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kanchanaburi is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Kanchanaburi. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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 Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kanchanaburi and Yaeyama Islands can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Kanchanaburi has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Yaeyama Islands area. 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 Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kanchanaburi and Yaeyama Islands.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanchanaburi. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

Yaeyama Islands has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a resort destination.

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

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for the beach. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a beach destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Yaeyama Islands. 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kanchanaburi is a great destination for shopping. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands More Beautiful?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yaeyama Islands is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. White sand, blue water, tropical jungles and coral reefs make this a breathtakingly beautiful part of Japan.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Yaeyama Islands is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yaeyama Islands is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is an amazing archipelago to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Yaeyama Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

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

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

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

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

Kanchanaburi has a few public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

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 Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of walkability.

Kanchanaburi is somewhat walkable. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yaeyama Islands than Kanchanaburi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kanchanaburi, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

The reflective destination of Kanchanaburi offers nightlife and food. 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.

In Yaeyama Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this serene archipelago offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

The town of Kanchanaburi offers food and shopping. 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 fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Yaeyama Islands, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this idyllic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanchanaburi. 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 popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

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

Yaeyama Islands has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kanchanaburi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

In July, Kanchanaburi is generally around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 29°C (84°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. It's quite rainy in Kanchanaburi. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May. The rainy season in Kanchanaburi is July to October.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

Both Yaeyama Islands and Kanchanaburi during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kanchanaburi in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Kanchanaburi. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Kanchanaburi can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 32°C (89°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

Yaeyama Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Also, May to June is the rainy season in Yaeyama Islands.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Kanchanaburi