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

Should you visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao?

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 Tao 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.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Dewa Sanzan and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its museums. Koh Tao is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is known for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Dewa Sanzan different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dewa Sanzan is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao 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 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Koh Tao has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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 Tao Better for Nightlife?

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

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

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 Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao 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 Tao is not to be missed. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

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

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

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

You'll find excellent hiking in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Tao.

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 Tao. 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. 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.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Koh Tao is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly island. 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.

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 Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Tao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao 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 Tao is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Tao.

Public transit is mostly 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.

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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. 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.

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 Tao Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao?

Both Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dewa Sanzan, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Dewa Sanzan. 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 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 Tao.

One day in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao?

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This religious site offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical island of Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. 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 Dewa Sanzan has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Koh Tao. 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 Tao?

Dewa Sanzan 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the popular island of Koh Tao. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Dewa Sanzan. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Tao. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to 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 Dewa Sanzan and Koh Tao, we can see that Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

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

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Tao in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Tao. The hiking are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Dewa Sanzan is around the same temperature as Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Dewa Sanzan usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during summer. Dewa Sanzan gets 124 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Tao 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 more rain than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Dewa Sanzan as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking trails. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In the autumn, Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dewa Sanzan in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

In the autumn, Dewa Sanzan often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Dewa Sanzan usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October and November in Koh Tao is the rainy season.

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

Both Koh Tao and Dewa Sanzan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dewa Sanzan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Dewa Sanzan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dewa Sanzan is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Dewa Sanzan average around -1°C (30°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during winter. Dewa Sanzan gets 149 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. In January, Dewa Sanzan usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

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

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

Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Koh Tao, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Dewa Sanzan often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun.

Dewa Sanzan usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Dewa Sanzan gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. February to June is the dry season in Koh Tao.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Dewa Sanzan