A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao 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. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Although Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is very popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and shopping. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. It is also well known for Mount Fuji. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao 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 Koh Tarutao. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

Koh Tarutao may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

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 Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offer decent nightlife.

Koh Tarutao doesn't offer many options. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tarutao. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Koh Tarutao can be found for those interested. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

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

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koh Tarutao 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.

Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

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 Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao 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 good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good 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 Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao offers . It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the dramatic national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Koh Tarutao has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the world renowned destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The world renowned national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find around the undiscovered island of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in 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 Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao than you might in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tarutao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tarutao during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the natural beauty.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tarutao