A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a welcoming, natural, and temple-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Chiang Mai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Chichibu-Tama-Kai travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chiang Mai different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Chiang Mai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Chiang Mai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Chiang Mai for the nightlife scene. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is great for its historic old town. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

Chiang Mai is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Around Chiang Mai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Chiang Mai is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

The beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This park is perfectly positioned to offer a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's filled with beautiful forests and serene hiking trails that make for a wonderful day away.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are very good family-friendly destinations.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly destination. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly city. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai both very good destinations for a couple.

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Chiang Mai. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Chiang Mai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very walkable. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chiang Mai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

With around the relaxing national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

With around the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

When visiting Chiang Mai, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chiang Mai is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Mai Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Chiang Mai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Chiang Mai