A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Tokyo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Sukhothai or Tokyo?

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 Sukhothai and Tokyo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a vibrant, iconic, and eclectic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tokyo travel costs.

Sukhothai and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Sukhothai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tokyo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai is more popular for its historical sights. Tokyo is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tokyo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Tokyo has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Sukhothai is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is known as a music capital around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Sukhothai is not a live music destination.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is great for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Tokyo. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Sukhothai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo More Beautiful?

Tokyo is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Tokyo is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai and Tokyo are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Sukhothai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Sukhothai is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Sukhothai is not popular with students.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

You'll find some public transit in Sukhothai, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Is Sukhothai or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Both Sukhothai and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Sukhothai. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Sukhothai 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 Tokyo.

One day in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

In Sukhothai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. 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.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Sukhothai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Tokyo?

You'll find food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. 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.

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Tokyo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Sukhothai or Tokyo?

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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Tokyo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Tokyo. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

Sukhothai is much warmer than Tokyo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Sukhothai is much warmer than Tokyo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Tokyo averages at about 5°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Tokyo. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Sukhothai