A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Railay Beach for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Koyasan or Railay Beach?

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 Railay Beach. 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 spiritual, traditional, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Koyasan is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums. See Koyasan travel costs.

Railay Beach

Railay Beach is a spectacular, fun-filled, and adventurous beach area. The famous beauty of Railay Beach is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Railay Beach travel costs.

Koyasan and Railay Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Railay Beach. Although Koyasan and Railay Beach are popular destinations, Railay Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Railay Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Railay Beach is famous for its beautiful limestone cliffs and its world famous rock climbing. It is also well known for Phra Nang Cave.

How is Koyasan different from Railay Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koyasan is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Railay Beach is not a good beach area for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Koyasan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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).

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Railay Beach. This is an adventure sport destination that is popular for rock climbing and its scenic beauty. Therefore, there are no real museums or temples in the area.

Is the Food Better in Koyasan or Railay Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koyasan and Railay Beach both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koyasan. 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.

Railay Beach is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a number of tourist oriented restaurants. Many are affiliated with hotels and resorts and serve the standard Thai options along with pizza and burgers.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Nightlife?

Railay Beach is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Railay Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a secluded area with a decent number of laid back bars that are usually associated with hotels or resorts. There's also a young crowd, including backpackers, who come for the beautiful setting and great rock climbing. This population insures that there's always something going on at night.

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 Railay Beach Better for Resorts?

Railay Beach is a great destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Railay Beach to choose from. You'll find a mix of beachside resorts and budget hotels, as well as a number of hostels in the area.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Railay Beach is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Railay Beach. There are dive centers that offer both snorkeling and dive trips to nearby areas.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Beaches?

Railay Beach is a great destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Railay Beach for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are famous for their dramatic limestone cliffs. There are three areas: Railay Beach West is scenic with its surrounding cliffs and popular resorts. This is the place to swim or watch the sunset. Railay Beach East is most popular for its rock climbing. You should also check out Phra Nang Cave Beach, which is the location of Phra Nang Cave.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Railay Beach does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Railay Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Railay Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Koyasan. 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.

Railay Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

Railay Beach is a beach area with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Railay Beach has some nice offerings. The Walking Street has shops that sell bathing suits or anything you may have forgotten.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach More Beautiful?

Railay Beach 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 Railay Beach is one of the main draws. The dramatic limestone cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches make this a stunning place to visit.

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

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Families?

Both Koyasan and Railay Beach are nice 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.

Railay Beach offers lots of family activities. This is a favorite beach area for many visitors to Thailand. It's only accessible by water and it offers adventure sports and calm waters that are nice for kids.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Couples?

Koyasan and Railay Beach both high quality 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.

Railay Beach is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Rock climbing is a favorite activity here, and couples who have an adventurous spirit will enjoy this dramatic location.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Railay Beach is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Railay Beach is a great beach area to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of affordable accommodation that attracts budget travelers and backpackers. The area's world class rock climbing also appeals to the young and adventurous crowd.

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 Railay Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koyasan is very good for its public transit. However, Railay Beach is not a good beach area for times when you don't have a car.

Koyasan has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Railay Beach. The area is only accessible by boat and there is no road transportation.

Is Koyasan or Railay Beach a more walkable city?

Railay Beach is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Railay Beach on foot is easy. The area has no cars or road transportation so everything, including the beaches are easy to walk to.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Koyasan Worth Visiting? and Is Railay Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Railay Beach or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

It's fun to spend time in either Koyasan or Railay Beach. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Railay Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Railay Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Railay Beach 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 Railay Beach.

One day in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Railay Beach, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach area 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 Railay Beach?

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Railay Beach, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Railay Beach has to offer.

Five days in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

Koyasan is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Railay Beach is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Koyasan or Railay Beach?

Koyasan is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Railay Beach. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Railay Beach. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Railay Beach?

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

Should I visit Koyasan or Railay Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Railay Beach. Many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Railay Beach attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Koyasan is generally around the same temperature as Railay Beach. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 27°C (81°F), and Railay Beach fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Railay Beach this time of the year. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Railay Beach during summer. Koyasan gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Railay Beach receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

Railay Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koyasan usually receives less rain than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Railay Beach receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Railay Beach.

Should I visit Koyasan or Railay Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Railay Beach. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. The warm climate attracts visitors to Railay Beach throughout the year.

Koyasan is cooler than Railay Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Railay Beach fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Railay Beach receives 181 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Railay Beach. Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koyasan usually gets less rain in October than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Railay Beach receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Railay Beach is the dry season. August to October in Railay Beach is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koyasan or Railay Beach in the Winter?

Both Railay Beach and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Railay Beach because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the winter, Koyasan is much colder than Railay Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koyasan in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Railay Beach averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Railay Beach. Koyasan usually receives less sunshine than Railay Beach during winter. Koyasan gets 140 hours of sunny skies, while Railay Beach receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Railay Beach receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Railay Beach is December to March.

Should I visit Koyasan or Railay Beach in the Spring?

Both Railay Beach and Koyasan during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Railay Beach year-round.

In April, Koyasan is generally much colder than Railay Beach. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 15°C (59°F), and Railay Beach fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

In Railay Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Koyasan often gets less sunshine than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Railay Beach receives 249 hours of full sun.

Railay Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. Koyasan usually gets more rain in April than Railay Beach. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Railay Beach receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Railay Beach and Koyasan