A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Koh Tao, 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.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a traditional, serene, and tranquil town. The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a popular, laid back, and mellow island. Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Yamaguchi and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Yamaguchi and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Koh Tao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Tao is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums and attractions. Koh Tao is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also home to Mango Bay Viewpoint. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Yamaguchi is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Yamaguchi and Koh Tao offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Yamaguchi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Tao makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Koh Tao has a large number of nightlife venues. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Tao specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Tao are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Tao has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Koh Tao is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Yamaguchi is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Yamaguchi and Koh Tao are both good destinations for the whole family.

Yamaguchi is a family-friendly town. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tao. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi and Koh Tao are both superb to visit as a couple.

Yamaguchi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

Couples visit Koh Tao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Tao, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

Yamaguchi is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yamaguchi is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Yamaguchi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Yamaguchi is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Both Yamaguchi and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Yamaguchi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Yamaguchi 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

In Yamaguchi, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Koh Tao. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

In Yamaguchi, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yamaguchi has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Tao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Yamaguchi is a great place to explore. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the mellow island of Koh Tao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yamaguchi. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Yamaguchi. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Koh Tao, 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 Yamaguchi or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Koh Tao. The summer months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Koh Tao. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Yamaguchi is cooler than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Tao in the Winter?

Both Koh Tao and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the museums and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the winter, Yamaguchi is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yamaguchi in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the spring for the natural beauty. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In April, Yamaguchi is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Yamaguchi