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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Matsue?

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 Matsue. 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Matsue

Matsue is a peaceful, pretty, and serene town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Chiang Mai and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Matsue?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Matsue. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Matsue 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. Matsue is famous for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere.

How is Chiang Mai different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Matsue 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Matsue has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Matsue 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.

Matsue doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its old town. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Matsue has an old town worth visiting. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

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.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Matsue?

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Matsue has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Matsue 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.

Matsue offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Chiang Mai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Matsue is a good city for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

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

Chiang Mai is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Matsue 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 backpackers visit Matsue. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

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

Matsue is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Matsue is fairly effecient and thorough. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Chiang Mai or Matsue a more walkable city?

Matsue 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.

Matsue is very walkable. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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 Matsue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Matsue?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chiang Mai and Matsue. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than in Matsue. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Matsue.

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

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the serene town of Matsue, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Matsue?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Matsue, 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 town.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Matsue?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Mai. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Matsue, a popular town, 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 Matsue?

Chiang Mai is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Matsue 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 Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Matsue?

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

Matsue 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 Matsue in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Matsue. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Matsue because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Matsue. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chiang Mai in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Matsue averages at about 25°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Matsue. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in July than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Matsue in the Autumn?

Both Matsue 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, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

In October, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 29°C (83°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Matsue in the Winter?

Both Matsue 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 travelers come to Matsue for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Matsue. Chiang Mai is much warmer than Matsue in the winter. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun.

Matsue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Matsue in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Matsue. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Matsue in the spring for the natural beauty.

The heat can be very extreme in Chiang Mai. In the spring, Chiang Mai is much warmer than Matsue. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chiang Mai in April average around 31°C (88°F), and Matsue averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Matsue. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Chiang Mai