A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chiang Mai vs. Kamakura for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

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 Kamakura. 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 laid-back, friendly, and cultural 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. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chiang Mai travel costs.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a laid back, ancient, and quaint coastal city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kamakura travel costs.

Chiang Mai and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai than Kamakura, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kamakura is known for its beaches. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Kamakura and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also home to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Kamakura is popular for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches.

How is Chiang Mai different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamakura 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 Kamakura?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Chiang Mai that are not to be missed. 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 Kamakura specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Mai or Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its 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.

Kamakura has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Chiang Mai and Kamakura.

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.

Kamakura offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Kamakura is a good destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Kamakura offers a nice beach destination. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kamakura. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Chiang Mai specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Chiang Mai is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura More Beautiful?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamakura is not a destination known for its 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.

Kamakura is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Kamakura is a family-friendly city. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Kamakura 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.

Kamakura is a very popular place to visit for couples. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chiang Mai is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Kamakura is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chiang Mai and Kamakura both offer good 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.

Kamakura has a few public transit options. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Chiang Mai or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai and Kamakura are good 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.

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable place. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Mai Worth Visiting? and Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chiang Mai or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chiang Mai than Kamakura 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 Kamakura.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Kamakura. 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 Kamakura. 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 Kamakura 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 Kamakura?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the quaint coastal city of Kamakura, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kamakura, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

Chiang Mai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chiang Mai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kamakura, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

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

Kamakura, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Kamakura?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Kamakura 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

Chiang Mai has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kamakura. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Kamakura, 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 Chiang Mai or Kamakura?

Kamakura 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 Kamakura in the Summer?

Both Kamakura and Chiang Mai during the summer 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 travelers come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Kamakura in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Kamakura fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 137 hours of full sun.

Kamakura 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 more rain in July than Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kamakura in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Kamakura. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Kamakura in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Kamakura. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Kamakura averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Chiang Mai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kamakura in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Kamakura. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chiang Mai this time of the year. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Kamakura in the Spring?

Both Kamakura and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Kamakura in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Kamakura fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Chiang Mai