A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Nagoya for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Koh Chang or Nagoya?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Nagoya, 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.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a serene, tranquil, and scenic island. Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-the-radar, under-rated, and often overlooked city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Nagoya travel costs.

Koh Chang and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nagoya than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nagoya is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Chang is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Nagoya is well known for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry. Also, Nagoya is famous for the Nagoya Castle.

How is Koh Chang different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Nagoya is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nagoya can be an interesting and educational experience. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Nagoya? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nagoya is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

Nagoya is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nagoya has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nagoya is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Nagoya is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagoya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Nagoya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is very popular for the beach. However, Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Chang. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Nagoya is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nagoya. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Families?

Nagoya is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nagoya is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is very popular for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Chang makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Students?

Nagoya is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Nagoya. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nagoya is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nagoya. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Koh Chang or Nagoya a more walkable city?

Nagoya is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Nagoya is very walkable. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Nagoya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Chang than Nagoya. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Chang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

People visit Nagoya because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the often overlooked city of Nagoya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene destination of Koh Chang. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nagoya is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Nagoya?

Nagoya has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Chang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nagoya in the Summer?

Both Nagoya and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nagoya for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Koh Chang usually receives less sunshine than Nagoya during summer. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 170 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nagoya in the Autumn?

Both Nagoya and Koh Chang during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Koh Chang is much warmer than Nagoya in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Nagoya fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 176 hours of full sun.

Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nagoya in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Nagoya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nagoya in the winter. In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Nagoya. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Nagoya averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Nagoya during winter. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Nagoya receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nagoya in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Nagoya. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Nagoya for the activities around the city.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang this time of the year. In the spring, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nagoya receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in April than Nagoya. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Koh Chang