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

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

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 Tao 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 Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

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

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Koh Tao has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Tao 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. Koh Tao is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also well known for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is adequate for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao 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 Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

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

Koh Tao is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Koh Tao. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

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 Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

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

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

Koh Tao is great for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

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

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

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

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

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

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

Koh Tao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao are destinations which offer high quality 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 Tao is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

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

Koh Tao is a island with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koh Tao. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

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

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Tao is a very popular place to visit for couples. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao both offer reasonable 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 Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Koh Tao is a very walkable national park. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

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

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

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Chichibu-Tama-Kai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

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

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer.

With shopping and nightlife around the beautiful island of Koh Tao, 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 Tao?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

With nightlife and food around the laid back destination of Koh Tao, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this 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 Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Koh Tao 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 here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao, we can see that Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Tao.

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 Tao Expensive?.

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

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

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

Both Koh Tao and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao 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 Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In July, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Koh Tao and Chichibu-Tama-Kai during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In October, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is generally cooler than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai average around 17°C (62°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Tao 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 Tao. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Tao. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's quite cold in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In January, Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Chichibu-Tama-Kai as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the spring, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chichibu-Tama-Kai in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Chichibu-Tama-Kai