A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a high energy, colorful, and active resort city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Pattaya travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pattaya. Although Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both popular with visitors, Pattaya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pattaya is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pattaya is more touristy than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. It is also home to the Sanctuary of Truth. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park for its historical sights. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pattaya. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

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

Pattaya is a great resort city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Pattaya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

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 Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an amazing resort city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

Pattaya has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

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

Pattaya is a great resort city for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Pattaya is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

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

Is Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Pattaya has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Pattaya is a great resort city for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is considered a top beach destination. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Around Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

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

Pattaya is a great resort city for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Pattaya. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

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

Is Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Pattaya is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Both Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park for its romantic activities. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for couples.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Pattaya is a good resort city for couples to visit. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Is Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pattaya is not as popular, but is still a nice resort city for backpackers.

Many 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 backpackers visit Pattaya. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Is Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Pattaya offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a national park with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pattaya is not known for its ease of walking around.

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

Pattaya is generally not very walkable. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

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

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

How long in Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Pattaya 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 Pattaya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park than Pattaya. 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 Pattaya 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 Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The vibrant destination of Pattaya offers nightlife and food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This resort city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, you'll find museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pattaya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Pattaya has to offer.

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, you'll find museums. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Pattaya is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant resort city of Pattaya. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. It's no surprise that nightlife 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

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

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

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pattaya is a little warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pattaya in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Pattaya during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 28°C (82°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°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 Pattaya. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the museums and the cuisine.

Pattaya is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 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 Pattaya or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year.

In the spring, Pattaya is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pattaya in April average around 30°C (86°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Pattaya