A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Koyasan for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Seoul or Koyasan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Koyasan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping. See Seoul travel costs.

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 beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Koyasan travel costs.

Seoul and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Koyasan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seoul than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seoul is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koyasan is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Koyasan is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Seoul is well known for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. Also, Seoul is famous for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Koyasan?

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Seoul and Koyasan.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

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).

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Seoul, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

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 Seoul or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Seoul know how to have a good time. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

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 Seoul or Koyasan Better for Music?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Koyasan is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Koyasan is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a well-known place for its old town. However, Seoul 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.

Seoul does not have a historic old town.

Is Seoul or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul 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.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Koyasan?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Seoul or Koyasan More Beautiful?

Koyasan is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koyasan is a beautiful place to visit, too. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Koyasan Better for Families?

Seoul is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Seoul or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Koyasan are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Koyasan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Seoul or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Koyasan are notable destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Seoul or Koyasan Better for Students?

Seoul is a great destination for students. However, Koyasan is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seoul. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Koyasan is not popular with students.

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

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

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.

Is Seoul or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Seoul and Koyasan both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Seoul is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

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 Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Seoul or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Seoul than Koyasan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seoul 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 Seoul.

One day in Seoul or Koyasan?

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Even though Koyasan is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Seoul or Koyasan?

Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Koyasan?

Seoul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seoul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. Koyasan is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Seoul or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. Because Seoul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Koyasan, we can see that Seoul 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 Seoul would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seoul 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 Seoul Expensive? and Is Koyasan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Seoul or Koyasan?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Koyasan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Koyasan. Many visitors come to Seoul in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Koyasan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Seoul is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the summer. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 26°C (78°F) in July, and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Seoul usually receives less sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Koyasan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Koyasan. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seoul is cooler than Koyasan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seoul in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Koyasan averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seoul this time of the year. In the autumn, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Koyasan. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seoul or Koyasan in the Winter?

Both Koyasan and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Seoul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

The weather in Seoul can be very cold. In January, Seoul is generally much colder than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around -3°C (27°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Seoul or Koyasan in the Spring?

Both Koyasan and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Seoul is cooler than Koyasan in the spring. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Seoul. In the spring, Seoul often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Seoul usually gets less rain in April than Koyasan. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Seoul