A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chiang Mai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is well known for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

How is Chiang Mai different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chiang Mai has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Chiang Mai is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Chiang Mai has something for everybody. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chiang Mai. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and they are amazing.

Chiang Mai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

People visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Chiang Mai specifically to go shopping. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

The beauty of Chiang Mai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are superb 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very kid-friendly city. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both superb 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both offer notable public transit to get you around.

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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Is Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Chiang Mai is somewhat walkable. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a somewhat walkable place. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums around the world renowned national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer.

With museums around the destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Mai is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, we can see that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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. Also, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 less rain in October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the natural beauty.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Chiang Mai