A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ayutthaya vs. Yamaguchi for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a historical, cultural, and famous city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a serene, tranquil, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Ayutthaya than Yamaguchi. While Yamaguchi is larger than Ayutthaya, Ayutthaya has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ayutthaya is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ayutthaya is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its impressive archeological ruins, history as the second capital of Siam, and its easy accessibility from Bangkok. Also, Ayutthaya is famous for Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya Historical Park. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Ayutthaya different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Both Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi have very good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Ayutthaya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. These large and impressive ruins are among the most visited in Thailand. This is in large part because of their easy access from Bangkok. Highlights of the historical park include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the Royal Chapel, Wat Ratchaburana, and Vihara Phra Mongkol Bophi.

Many visitors head to Yamaguchi specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

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

Both Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ayutthaya makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine makes use of the area's freshwater fish, green vegetables, and river prawns. Dishes often include rice noodles and a spicy sauce. There are many restaurants that cater to the tourist crowds but still serve high quality dishes.

Yamaguchi has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Ayutthaya is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Ayutthaya. There are a number of bars and nightclubs that keep things lively well into the evening.

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 Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for its Old Town?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ayutthaya to see the historical old town. Ayutthaya Historical Park includes 425 archaeological sites that are both inside the city walls, as well as outside.

Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Yamaguchi is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Yamaguchi is a good destination for hiking. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Ayutthaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Ayutthaya. There are some great shopping areas around the town that specialize in local handicrafts such as pottery, wicker weaving, and stone masonry. Some of the most interesting places include the Ayutthaya Floating Market and the Ayutthaya Night Market.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi.

Ayutthaya is a family-friendly place to visit. Families will appreciate how easy it is to reach Ayutthaya from Bangkok. The historical ruins are fun for both kids and adults, but the sites are very spread out and you'll need to hire a tuk tuk to see everything. The roads can be crowded and distances far, so biking isn't recommended with kids.

Yamaguchi is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Yamaguchi is notable for romance. Also, Ayutthaya is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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

Ayutthaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The historical ruins make an easy day trip from Bangkok, so couples who appreciate history and iconic temples will appreciate a visit here.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ayutthaya is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ayutthaya. The historic temples are popular with all tourists, including backpackers who often visit as a day trip from Bangkok.

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

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

Yamaguchi is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Yamaguchi has a few public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ayutthaya. There are organized tours and private tuk tuks for hire that will take you to the various temples. There are also bicycles available for rent, but roads can be crowded.

Is Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi is a popular place for its walkability. However, Ayutthaya is a mediocre city for its high level of walkability.

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

Ayutthaya is not a very walkable city. The historic sites are spread out over a vast area and you must have some form of transportation to reach everything. Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Phutthai Sawan are the furthest apart. Everywhere else can be accessed on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Ayutthaya?

How long in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Ayutthaya. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ayutthaya has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Yamaguchi. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yamaguchi has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the famous destination of Ayutthaya. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Ayutthaya. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the traditional town of Yamaguchi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Ayutthaya is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Yamaguchi is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi, we can see that Yamaguchi is more expensive. And not only is Ayutthaya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ayutthaya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ayutthaya 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 Ayutthaya.

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

Which is Bigger, Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Ayutthaya. When comparing the sizes of Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi, 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 Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi?

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

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Ayutthaya during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ayutthaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ayutthaya is generally a little warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 29°C (84°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ayutthaya. Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in July than Yamaguchi. Ayutthaya gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ayutthaya and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ayutthaya year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Ayutthaya is a little warmer than Yamaguchi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ayutthaya averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Ayutthaya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ayutthaya usually receives more rain than Yamaguchi. Ayutthaya gets 180 mm (7.1 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to April in Ayutthaya is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Ayutthaya.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ayutthaya as well as Yamaguchi. Ayutthaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Ayutthaya is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ayutthaya in January average around 25°C (78°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Ayutthaya usually gets less rain in January than Yamaguchi. Ayutthaya gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ayutthaya or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

Both Yamaguchi and Ayutthaya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ayutthaya throughout the year. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

Ayutthaya can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Ayutthaya is generally much warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Ayutthaya average around 31°C (88°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. In April, Ayutthaya usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Ayutthaya gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Ayutthaya is October to April. The rainy season in Ayutthaya is May to October.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Ayutthaya