A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park vs. Koh Tao for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful, tropical, and popular island. Many visitors also come to Koh Tao because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Tao. Although Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Koh Tao has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Tao is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is known for its museums and attractions and hiking. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is popular for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. It is also home to Mango Bay Viewpoint.

How is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can be an interesting and educational experience. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Tao is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Tao has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is a great island for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Koh Tao has something for everybody. 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.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Tao a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Tao. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Tao has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of fantastic scenery and beauty in both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao.

Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Tao as well. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is very family-friendly. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao make for a very good place to visit.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Tao, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a great island for its ease of walking around. Also, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. 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.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is somewhat walkable. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

For even more information, also check out Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

How long in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, you'll find museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The tropical destination of Koh Tao offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

In Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

A week in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 tropical island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Family-Friendly 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao, we can see that Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In July, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 202 mm (8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

Both Koh Tao and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is cooler than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually gets less rain in October than Koh Tao. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 154 mm (6.1 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Tao. Most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the winter, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 73 mm (2.9 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Tao in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park as well as Koh Tao. The spring months attract visitors to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

In April, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives a lot of rain in the spring. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park usually gets more rain in April than Koh Tao. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 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 Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park