A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Sapporo for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Sapporo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Sapporo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a idyllic, serene, and laid back area. Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a vibrant, laid-back, and park-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Sapporo travel costs.

Khao Lak and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sapporo than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sapporo is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Sapporo is well known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. Also, Sapporo is famous for Odori Park.

How is Khao Lak different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

Sapporo is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Khao Lak is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Sapporo is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sapporo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sapporo makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

Sapporo is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Sapporo know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great area for its luxury resorts. However, Sapporo is not a resort destination.

In Khao Lak, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Sapporo is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sapporo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Khao Lak is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Sapporo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Sapporo is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Sapporo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Sapporo is a great destination for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sapporo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Sapporo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Sapporo are great to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Sapporo is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sapporo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Khao Lak is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Sapporo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak and Sapporo are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Many backpackers visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Students?

Sapporo is a great destination for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sapporo is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Sapporo is fairly effecient and thorough. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Khao Lak or Sapporo a more walkable city?

Sapporo is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Sapporo is very walkable. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Khao Lak and Sapporo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than in Sapporo. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sapporo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sapporo than Khao Lak 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 Sapporo.

One day in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Sapporo is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Khao Lak or Sapporo?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Sapporo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sapporo, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Sapporo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Sapporo is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a larger population, and is about 1110 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Sapporo, 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 Khao Lak or Sapporo?

Sapporo has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Khao Lak experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sapporo in the Summer?

Both Sapporo and Khao Lak during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sapporo this time of year.

In July, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 179 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sapporo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Sapporo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, many travelers come to Sapporo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Sapporo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Sapporo fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 156 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sapporo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sapporo in the Winter?

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

Sapporo can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Sapporo averages at about -5°C (24°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sapporo receives 99 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sapporo. Khao Lak usually gets less rain in January than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Sapporo in the Spring?

Both Sapporo and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Sapporo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Sapporo during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Sapporo receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Typical Weather for Sapporo and Khao Lak