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

Should you visit Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chiang Rai or Tokyo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is a beautiful, friendly, and charming city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a high tech, high energy, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Chiang Rai and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Chiang Rai, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Tokyo is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Chiang Rai is known for its historical sights and hiking. Tokyo is more touristy than Chiang Rai and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Chiang Rai is popular for its intricate temples, unique cuisine, and being the gateway to the Golden Triangle.

How is Chiang Rai different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tokyo and Chiang Rai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Chiang Rai and Tokyo.

The museums and tourist attractions in Chiang Rai are world-renowned. The Old City is filled with breathtaking temples and cultural sites. Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) is an iconic sight, but you should also visit the Black House, and Wat Rong Seua Ten (the Blue Temple). Wat Tham Pla is the Monkey Temple and has a dramatic effect with its steep staircase. It's a short drive from Chiang Rai, but worth the trip as it's overrun with monkeys.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tokyo on the map. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

Is the Food Better in Chiang Rai or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chiang Rai and Tokyo can be difficult as they are each fantastic in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chiang Rai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The regional cuisine is famous for its unique dishes and flavors. It's slightly less spicy than the southern Thai cuisine and the dishes are rich in flavor. Northern Thai sausage is a must-try dish, as is Khao Soi Curry, and Khao Soi Gai Nong (coconut curry and chicken soup).

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Chiang Rai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The small city has a laid back nightlife scene with a number of bars and cafes along Jetyod Road. You'll find a mix of expats and locals, without the usual backpacker crowds that are common in some cities.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Chiang Rai is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Tokyo. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Chiang Rai is not a live music destination.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for its Old Town?

Chiang Rai is great for its historic old town charm. However, Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chiang Rai. The Old City is filled with intricate temples and impressive beauty. The area is very walkable and you can easily visit the famed Wat Ming Muang, Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Phra Singh.

Tokyo does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Hiking?

Chiang Rai is a popular place for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Chiang Rai is a good destination for hiking. Head out of town to Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall if you want to enjoy some hiking. It makes an easy half day trip.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Tokyo draws large crowds to its stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Chiang Rai. Local markets, night markets, and souvenir shops with handcrafted goods all make shopping a fun experience. Head to the Night Bazaar or the Walking Street for some of the best experiences.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Chiang Rai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are parks and outdoor spaces to explore such as Singha Park and the Garden of Reeds. For a little bit of silly fun, check out Nava Land Water Park and if you want to get out of town a bit, you'll find some great hiking nearby at Khun Korn Forest Park Waterfall.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Chiang Rai and Tokyo are both very good to visit as a couple.

Chiang Rai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful temples, impressive gardens, and an authentic Thai experience all make this a romantic and fun destination for couples.

Couples visit Tokyo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Rai is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Chiang Rai. There is no shortage of affordable hostels around town. There are also enough backpackers around to keep things fun but not so many that the local vibe is lost.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a great destination for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Chiang Rai is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Chiang Rai is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Public transit is generally limited in Chiang Rai. Tuk tuks and taxis are your best bet for getting around town in a vehicle.

Is Chiang Rai or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Chiang Rai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tokyo. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Chiang Rai is a very walkable destination. The old city is easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Chiang Rai Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Chiang Rai?

How long in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Both Chiang Rai and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Chiang Rai. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Chiang Rai, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tokyo than Chiang Rai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tokyo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

In Chiang Rai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Tokyo, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Rai or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chiang Rai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Tokyo, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Chiang Rai is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chiang Rai. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Tokyo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Chiang Rai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chiang Rai and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Chiang Rai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chiang Rai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chiang Rai 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 Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Chiang Rai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Rai Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Rai or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Chiang Rai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Rai and Tokyo, 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.