A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hat Yai vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is a festive, colorful, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a relaxing, natural, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hat Yai than Chichibu-Tama-Kai, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hat Yai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more touristy than Hat Yai and is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo. Hat Yai is well known for its local markets, its traditional restaurants, and its colorful temples. Also, Hat Yai is famous for Wat Hat Yai Nai.

How is Hat Yai different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hat Yai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hat Yai is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Hat Yai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has many temples to explore such as Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol and Wat Hat Yai Nai.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.


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

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hat Yai is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Hat Yai have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Eating is really what you do in this city. There is amazing street food, impressive floating restaurants, and authentic cuisine that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The dishes include lots of seafood and some Chinese influences.

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 Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hat Yai is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Hat Yai has a few options to choose from. It's a big city, so there are plenty of clubs and bars where you can party late into the night.

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

Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Hat Yai is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Hat Yai is great for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hat Yai. It's a large commercial hub in southern Thailand and many visitors come specifically for the shopping. There are many markets in town and places to buy everything from local products to trendy clothes.

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

Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Hat Yai is not always a place people visit with their families. There are some play places for the kids and kid-friendly meals are available in many places. There are also some animal farms and parks near town where kids and adults can enjoy a natural setting.

Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is notable for couples. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Hat Yai is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Most people pass through the city on their way to other places, but if you chose to linger you'll enjoy amazing food and some interesting activities around town.


Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a national park with good options for backpackers. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a good national park to visit for backpackers. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Hat Yai is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are hostels in the city, as well as cheap hotels, but the backpacker vibe isn't the same as what you get in other Thai cities. If you want more authenticity, then this is your place.

Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Both Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Hat Yai. The easiest and cheapest way to get around is by tuk tuk or motorbike taxi.

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.

Is Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Hat Yai
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Hat Yai is a mediocre city for its walkability.

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

Hat Yai is generally not a very walkable city. Some parts of the city are more walkable than others.


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

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Hat Yai?

How long in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hat Yai than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hat Yai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Hat Yai 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai.


  • How many days in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hat Yai 1-3 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2

One day in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Hat Yai, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

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.

A weekend in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and nightlife around the colorful city of Hat Yai, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

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.

Five days in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Hat Yai. 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.

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.


A week in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Hat Yai is a popular choice for travelers. One of the main draws to the area is the food. This city 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.

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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Hat Yai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hat Yai is $16, while the average daily cost in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $69. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hat Yai $5.11
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hat Yai $10
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $68
Compare Hotels in Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Looking for a hotel in Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hat Yai


Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hat Yai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hat Yai $0.63
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hat Yai

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hat Yai:

  • Private Van transfer from Hatyai Airport to Pak Bara Pier: $73
  • Private Van transfer from Hatyai City to Pak Bara Pier: $73
  • Private Hatyai Airport Transfer to Pak Bara Pier by Van: $69
  • private van transfer from Hatyai Airport to Pabara Pier: $68
  • Transfer from Hatyai Airport to Koh Lipe: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Prices for flights to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hat Yai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hat Yai $10
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $24
Typical Food Prices in Hat Yai

Some typical examples of dining costs in Hat Yai are as follows:


  • Roti Snack
    $0.55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hat Yai -
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.13

Tours and Activities in Hat Yai

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hat Yai are as follows:

  • One Way Speedboat and Van Ticket Koh Lipe to Hat Yai Airport: $30
  • One Way Van and Speedboat Ticket Hat Yai Airport to Koh Lipe: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hat Yai $2.52
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.30
Typical Alcohol Prices in Hat Yai

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Hat Yai:


  • Beer
    $1.64


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hat Yai Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Should I visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hat Yai as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

In the summer, Hat Yai is a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hat Yai in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 25°C (78°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hat Yai usually gets less rain in July than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hat Yai 29°C (83°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F)

Should I visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hat Yai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hat Yai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hat Yai is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Hat Yai average around 28°C (82°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's quite rainy in Hat Yai. In October, Hat Yai usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Hat Yai is May to December.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hat Yai 28°C (82°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hat Yai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hat Yai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can get quite cold in the winter. Hat Yai is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the winter. The daily temperature in Hat Yai averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hat Yai. Hat Yai usually gets more rain in January than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. January to April is the dry season in Hat Yai.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hat Yai 28°C (82°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Hat Yai or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hat Yai and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hat Yai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hat Yai is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hat Yai in April average around 30°C (85°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In April, Hat Yai usually receives less rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hat Yai gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. January to April in Hat Yai is the dry season. Also, May to December is the rainy season in Hat Yai.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hat Yai 30°C (85°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Hat Yai

Hat Yai Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°C (82°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Feb 28°C (83°F) 26 mm (1 in) 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 29°C (85°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 30°C (85°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
May 29°C (84°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Jun 29°C (84°F) 101 mm (4 in) 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 101 mm (4 in) 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 284 mm (11.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 588 mm (23.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 404 mm (15.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)


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