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

Should you visit Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

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

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

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. Yamaguchi is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Koh Chang and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Chang than Yamaguchi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Chang is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and hiking. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Also, Koh Chang is famous for White Sand Beach. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Koh Chang different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

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 Yamaguchi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yamaguchi is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Yamaguchi. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. 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.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi Better for Resorts?

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

Koh Chang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Chang are among the best in the world. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Yamaguchi has hiking trails worth exploring. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Chang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

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

Yamaguchi is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Chang. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Chang has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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

Koh Chang is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Koh Chang and Yamaguchi.

Koh Chang has some public transit options. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Yamaguchi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Is Koh Chang or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Yamaguchi is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

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 Yamaguchi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Chang than Yamaguchi because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 1-2 days is enough time in Yamaguchi.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Chang than Yamaguchi. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang than Yamaguchi 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Koh Chang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Yamaguchi. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yamaguchi has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

You'll find food and nightlife around the tranquil destination of Koh Chang. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

You'll find nightlife and food around the tranquil island of Koh Chang. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic town of Yamaguchi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Yamaguchi?

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Yamaguchi 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 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 Koh Chang and Yamaguchi, we can see that Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi Expensive?.

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi 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, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

In July, Koh Chang is generally around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 28°C (82°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Yamaguchi. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi 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, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Koh Chang is a little warmer than Yamaguchi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Yamaguchi. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 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 Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Yamaguchi. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in April than Yamaguchi. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Koh Chang