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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

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 Koyasan. 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 natural, temple-filled, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a serene, spiritual, and traditional town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Koyasan are popular destinations, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its small town charm. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Koyasan and is popular for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. It is also well known for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Chiang Mai different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Chiang Mai are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Koyasan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Chiang Mai, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Chiang Mai know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Chiang Mai and Koyasan.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Koyasan is a good destination for hiking. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Chiang Mai make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chiang Mai is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Koyasan both excellent 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.

Koyasan is a very popular place to visit for couples. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

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

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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 budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

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

Chiang Mai and Koyasan both offer nice 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.

Koyasan has a few public transit options. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Chiang Mai or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Koyasan is a great town for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Koyasan is very walkable. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

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

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

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer.

Even though Koyasan is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chiang Mai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. Because Chiang Mai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Koyasan 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

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

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Koyasan?

Koyasan 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 Koyasan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Koyasan. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Koyasan averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koyasan in the Autumn?

Both Koyasan and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koyasan in the Winter?

Both Koyasan and Chiang Mai during the winter 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 Koyasan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chiang Mai is much warmer than Koyasan in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun.

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Koyasan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Koyasan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Koyasan averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Chiang Mai