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

Should you visit Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

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 Yokohama. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a diverse, bright, and colorful city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chiang Mai and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chiang Mai than Yokohama. While Yokohama is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Yokohama 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. Yokohama is popular for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night.

How is Chiang Mai different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Mai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Yokohama offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Mai is well known for its historic old town. However, Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Chiang Mai to see the historical old town. 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.

Yokohama does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is terrific for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Chiang Mai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

Chiang Mai is terrific for shopping. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Yokohama is very family-friendly. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for Couples?

Chiang Mai and Yokohama both great 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.

Yokohama is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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

Chiang Mai is terrific for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

Is Chiang Mai or Yokohama Better for Students?

Yokohama is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Yokohama is a great city 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 Yokohama is fairly effecient and thorough. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

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 Yokohama a more walkable city?

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

Yokohama is very walkable. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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 Yokohama Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

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

Families should spend more time in Yokohama than Chiang Mai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Yokohama, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chiang Mai than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama?

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 diverse city of Yokohama, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yokohama, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

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 big city destination of Yokohama, 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 city.

Five days in Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

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.

Yokohama, a popular 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 Yokohama?

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.

Yokohama 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 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 Yokohama, we can see that Yokohama 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 Yokohama would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yokohama 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 Yokohama Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Yokohama?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai and Yokohama, 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 Yokohama?

Yokohama 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 Yokohama in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Yokohama. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Yokohama for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Yokohama in the summer. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. Chiang Mai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in July than Yokohama. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Yokohama in the Autumn?

Both Yokohama 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 autumn months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during autumn. Chiang Mai gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In October, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Yokohama. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Chiang Mai is November to February.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Yokohama in the Winter?

Both Yokohama 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. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year.

In January, Chiang Mai is generally much warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 23°C (74°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

It's quite sunny in Chiang Mai. In the winter, Chiang Mai often gets more sunshine than Yokohama. Chiang Mai gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 175 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Yokohama in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Yokohama. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Yokohama for the activities around the city.

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

In Chiang Mai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chiang Mai usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during spring. Chiang Mai gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Yokohama receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Yokohama. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Chiang Mai.

Typical Weather for Yokohama and Chiang Mai