A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chichibu-Tama-Kai vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a funky, beautiful, and backpacker-friendly party island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan are both popular with visitors, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also home to the Full Moon Parties. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Pha Ngan and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Spend time exploring the decent sights and museums in either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan.

While most people don't head to Chichibu-Tama-Kai specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Koh Pha Ngan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Koh Pha Ngan. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a handful of resorts to choose from. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is adequate for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for shopping. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very family-friendly place to visit. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very walkable. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Koh Pha Ngan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chichibu-Tama-Kai, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Pha Ngan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Koh Pha Ngan.

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, many people enjoy the that this natural national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Pha Ngan, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the backpacker-friendly party island of Koh Pha Ngan, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical destination of Koh Pha Ngan, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this party island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best Bicycle Tours in Thailand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan in the summer. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Pha Ngan. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the museums and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

The weather in Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold. In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 4°C (39°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Pha Ngan. The natural beauty are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In April, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Chichibu-Tama-Kai