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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

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 Yaeyama Islands. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Yaeyama Islands

Yaeyama Islands is a tropical, pristine, and luxurious archipelago. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Chiang Mai and Yaeyama Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai. Although Chiang Mai and Yaeyama Islands are both popular with visitors, Chiang Mai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chiang Mai is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Yaeyama Islands is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Yaeyama Islands 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. Yaeyama Islands is popular for its jungle, tropical setting, and pristine beaches.

How is Chiang Mai different from Yaeyama Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago 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.

While most people don't head to Yaeyama Islands specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The islands are known for their beaches, snorkeling, and jungles, but don't expect much in the form of museums.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Yaeyama Islands has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many fruits and vegetables that are local to the region. Tropical fruits are common including pineapples, passionfruit, mango, shikuwasa, watermelon, papaya, and dragon fruit. You can try Yaeyama Soba (noodle soup) or any other local favorite at the restaurants in the area, most of which are usually concentrated around the villages on the island.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Nightlife?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for nightlife and partying.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Yaeyama Islands. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. You can sip a cocktail and enjoy the view from your resort's bar.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Resorts?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Yaeyama Islands for its luxury resorts. There are luxury international resorts as well as smaller upscale hotels. Many resorts are found on the largest island, Ishigaki.

Chiang Mai is not a resort destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Yaeyama Islands is a great archipelago for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer great scuba diving and snorkeling with coral reefs and tropical fish as well as manta rays and pelagic fish.

Chiang Mai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Beaches?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Yaeyama Islands offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This tropical paradise has white sand beaches and turquoise water. There are water sports, including snorkeling and diving, and the beaches on each island have their own atmosphere and vibe.

Chiang Mai is not a beach destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Yaeyama Islands does not have a historic old town.

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.

Yaeyama Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for the nearby hiking options. Also, Yaeyama Islands is not as famous, but is still a good archipelago to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Yaeyama Islands. The islands offer relatively easy access to jungle hikes, which will quickly make you feel like you've been swept into a hidden paradise. There are waterfalls, wildlife, butterflies, and scenic spots to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

Chiang Mai is terrific for shopping. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yaeyama Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Families?

Both Chiang Mai and Yaeyama Islands are excellent 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a very kid-friendly city. This island setting has blue waters and water sports that the whole family can enjoy. There are also family-friendly resorts with kids clubs and nearby nature.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Couples?

Yaeyama Islands is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Yaeyama Islands is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Beautiful blue water and fun water sports make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are nice resorts and fine dining opportunities that make this a great couple's retreat.

Chiang Mai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai is terrific for backpackers. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago 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.

Yaeyama Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpacking can be challenging as transportation is limited and accommodation can be expensive.

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

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its public transit. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Yaeyama Islands. There is very little in the form of public transit but you can get from the largest island, Ishigaki Island, to nearby islands by ferry.

Is Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands a more walkable city?

Chiang Mai is a good destination for its walkability. However, Yaeyama Islands is not a good archipelago for its high level of 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.

Yaeyama Islands is generally not a very walkable city. Some of the islands are small enough to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Yaeyama Islands or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

In either Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chiang Mai than Yaeyama Islands because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Mai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Yaeyama Islands.

Families should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Yaeyama Islands. 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 Yaeyama Islands. 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 Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the pristine archipelago of Yaeyama Islands, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 Yaeyama Islands?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Yaeyama Islands, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

Chiang Mai is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Yaeyama Islands, a popular archipelago, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

Chiang Mai is a big city with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yaeyama Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands?

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands in the Summer?

Both Yaeyama Islands 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, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yaeyama Islands this time of year.

Chiang Mai is around the same temperature as Yaeyama Islands in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

In Yaeyama Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Chiang Mai often gets less sunshine than Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 279 hours of full sun.

Yaeyama Islands 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 July than Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 179 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Yaeyama Islands. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Yaeyama Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chiang Mai in October average around 29°C (83°F), and Yaeyama Islands averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Yaeyama Islands 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 Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Yaeyama Islands in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Yaeyama Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 18°C (64°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 Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yaeyama Islands receives 97 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in January than Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 120 mm (4.7 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 Yaeyama Islands in the Spring?

Both Yaeyama Islands 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, most visitors come to Yaeyama Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

It's very hot in Chiang Mai this time of the year. Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Yaeyama Islands in the spring. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 31°C (88°F) in April, and Yaeyama Islands fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Yaeyama Islands during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Yaeyama Islands receives 154 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yaeyama Islands. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Yaeyama Islands. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yaeyama Islands receives 147 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. The rainy season in Yaeyama Islands is May to June.

Typical Weather for Yaeyama Islands and Chiang Mai