A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Koyasan or Koh Tao?

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 Koyasan and Koh Tao. 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.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a serene, spiritual, and traditional town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Koyasan is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Koyasan travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Koyasan and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Koyasan is well known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Koh Tao is well known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Koyasan different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Koyasan is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Koyasan can be an interesting and educational experience. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Koyasan or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Koh Tao know how to have a good time. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Tao to choose from. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is great for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Koyasan to see the historical old town. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Koyasan is a good destination for hiking. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Both Koyasan and Koh Tao are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koyasan. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Koh Tao offers lots of family activities. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koyasan and Koh Tao both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Koh Tao is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

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

Koyasan is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Koyasan or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koyasan and Koh Tao both are great when exploring on foot.

Koyasan is a very walkable town. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Koyasan Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Both Koyasan and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Koyasan. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Koyasan 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 Tao.

One day in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Koyasan is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koyasan has to offer.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

Koyasan is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao 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 Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. Since Koyasan is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Koyasan during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Koyasan is a little warmer than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In the summer, Koyasan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. Koyasan usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Koh Tao. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Koyasan is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koyasan in October average around 19°C (65°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Koyasan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during autumn. Koyasan gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koyasan usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Koh Tao. The winter months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the museums and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In January, Koyasan is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 6°C (42°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In the winter, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Koyasan usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Koyasan is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Koyasan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. In April, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Koyasan