A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yokohama vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Families, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan, 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.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a colorful, under-rated, and laid-back city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Yokohama travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a tropical, party-oriented, and high energy party island. Koh Pha Ngan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, nightlife, and food. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Yokohama and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Yokohama and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Yokohama is known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Yokohama and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Yokohama is popular for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Yokohama different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Yokohama is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Yokohama specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yokohama is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for nightlife. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-see party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Many people head to Yokohama for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a handful of resorts to choose from. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for its beaches. However, Yokohama is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Pha Ngan are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Yokohama is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Yokohama is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Pha Ngan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Yokohama is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Yokohama is one of the most popular family destinations. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Yokohama is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is terrific for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Yokohama is very good for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Yokohama is popular with students. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yokohama is well known for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Yokohama. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Yokohama is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Yokohama is very walkable. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Yokohama because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Yokohama 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Yokohama has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The beautiful party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Yokohama is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Yokohama. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Pha Ngan, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Yokohama is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This party island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Yokohama is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan in the summer. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In July, Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Yokohama during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the autumn, Yokohama is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Yokohama in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Koh Pha Ngan. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Yokohama is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 6°C (42°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In January, Yokohama usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Yokohama is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the spring. Yokohama usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Yokohama