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

Should you visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi?

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 Phi Phi 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 peaceful, relaxing, and natural national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a rustic, remote, and tropical island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi are popular destinations, Koh Phi Phi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its museums & sights. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also well known for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Chichibu-Tama-Kai different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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 Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

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

Koh Phi Phi is a 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 Phi Phi. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

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 Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is great for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Koh Phi Phi for the nightlife scene. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

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

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class resort vacation destination. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Phi Phi is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

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

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Phi Phi is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi are destinations which offer excellent 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 Phi Phi is a popular spot for hiking. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

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

Koh Phi Phi is mediocre for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Koh Phi Phi can be found for those interested. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

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

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very family-friendly. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

Koh Phi Phi is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

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 Phi Phi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Phi Phi is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Koh Phi Phi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Public transit is generally 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.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

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

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable national park. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

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

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

How long in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi 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 Phi Phi.

One day in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the peaceful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Phi Phi, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the natural destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical island of Koh Phi Phi, 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. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi?

The peaceful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Koh Phi Phi is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Phi Phi Expensive?.

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

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

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

Both Koh Phi Phi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Koh Phi Phi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Koh Phi Phi. The spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai