A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dewa Sanzan vs. Koh Phi Phi for Couples, Backpackers, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dewa Sanzan and Koh Phi Phi can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a traditional, religious, and sacred religious site. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Dewa Sanzan travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning, beautiful, and rustic island. Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Dewa Sanzan and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Phi Phi is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its museums and attractions. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Also, Koh Phi Phi is famous for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Dewa Sanzan is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Dewa Sanzan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Phi Phi is very good for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Koh Phi Phi has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Koh Phi Phi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Koh Phi Phi is a perfect choice. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi is not to be missed. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Phi Phi is a very popular vacation 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

You'll find great hiking in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Phi Phi.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Phi Phi. 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Neither Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi offer decent shopping options.

Shopping in Dewa Sanzan can be found for those interested. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. 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.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Koh Phi Phi is a decent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Phi Phi is not always a place people visit with their families. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly religious site. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Phi Phi 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a good religious site for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Phi Phi is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Phi Phi is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Koh Phi Phi has some public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Koh Phi Phi is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Dewa Sanzan?

How long in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Phi Phi. In our opinion, Koh Phi Phi has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Phi Phi than Dewa Sanzan. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Dewa Sanzan. 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 Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the sacred religious site of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning island of Koh Phi Phi. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the religious destination of Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This religious site 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote destination of Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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.

Five days in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

The sacred religious site of Dewa Sanzan offers museums. 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.

The rustic island of Koh Phi Phi offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Dewa Sanzan. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Koh Phi Phi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan Expensive? and Is Koh Phi Phi Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi?

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking during these months. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Dewa Sanzan is cooler than Koh Phi Phi in the summer. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. Dewa Sanzan usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Dewa Sanzan gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Dewa Sanzan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Dewa Sanzan usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dewa Sanzan as well as Koh Phi Phi. The autumn months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking trails. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In the autumn, Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dewa Sanzan in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Dewa Sanzan often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Dewa Sanzan usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Dewa Sanzan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It's quite cold in Dewa Sanzan in the winter. In January, Dewa Sanzan is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Dewa Sanzan average around -1°C (30°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Dewa Sanzan gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. In January, Dewa Sanzan usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Dewa Sanzan during the spring are popular places to visit. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the spring. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Dewa Sanzan often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Dewa Sanzan usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Dewa Sanzan gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Dewa Sanzan