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

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

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Phuket travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a majestic, dramatic, and iconic national park. The famous beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

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

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both popular with visitors, Phuket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Phuket 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. Phuket is more touristy than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also home to The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Phuket has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

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

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

Phuket has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

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

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

Phuket is an amazing resort island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Phuket is a great choice. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

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

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

Phuket is a great resort island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Phuket. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

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

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

Phuket is an amazing resort 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 Phuket. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

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

Phuket is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

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

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of the main draws. 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.

Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

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

Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Phuket frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great resort island 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.

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

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Phuket is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Phuket or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both are good when exploring on foot.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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

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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Phuket or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Phuket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, 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 Phuket. 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 Phuket than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Phuket that are great 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 Phuket 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 Phuket or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The stunning destination of Phuket offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Phuket is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phuket has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The energetic resort island of Phuket offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the world renowned destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week 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 Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Phuket 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 Phuket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phuket 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.

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

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

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

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Phuket during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket 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 and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Phuket is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 26°C (78°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 Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Phuket is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Phuket is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

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

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

Phuket is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

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

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

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