A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Koyasan for Food, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Hoi An or Koyasan?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and Koyasan. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a traditional, quaint, and peaceful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a traditional, peaceful, and serene town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Hoi An and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Koyasan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hoi An. Although Hoi An and Koyasan are popular destinations, Hoi An has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hoi An is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Hoi An is more touristy than Koyasan and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also well known for the Fukian Assembly Hall. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Hoi An different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koyasan and Hoi An. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Koyasan?

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Hoi An or Koyasan.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Koyasan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Is the Food Better in Hoi An or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Hoi An, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Hoi An is a town with a few options for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is a good destination for the beache. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Hoi An offers a nice beach destination. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Hoi An is revered around the world. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Koyasan offers some nice hiking trails. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Koyasan?

Hoi An is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Hoi An make it a world-class shopping destination. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Families?

Hoi An is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hoi An is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Hoi An and Koyasan both excellent destinations for a couple.

Hoi An makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Hoi An and Koyasan.

Hoi An has some public transit options. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

You'll find some public transit in Koyasan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Hoi An or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Hoi An is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hoi An on foot is easy. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Koyasan is a very walkable destination. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Koyasan?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Hoi An than Koyasan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hoi An that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Koyasan 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 Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Koyasan?

In Hoi An, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Hoi An or Koyasan?

In Hoi An, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hoi An has to offer.

Koyasan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Koyasan?

Hoi An is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Hoi An. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koyasan is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hoi An and Koyasan, we can see that Koyasan is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An 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 Koyasan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koyasan than you might in Hoi An.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hoi An Expensive? and Is Koyasan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An or Koyasan?

Koyasan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hoi An experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Hoi An during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

In the summer, Hoi An is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hoi An in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Koyasan averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the summer, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Koyasan. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Koyasan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Koyasan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Also, many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 25°C (78°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

Hoi An usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan during autumn. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hoi An or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Koyasan. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Koyasan in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Hoi An is much warmer than Koyasan in the winter. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Hoi An often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun.

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Koyasan. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hoi An or Koyasan in the Spring?

Both Koyasan and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hoi An is much warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hoi An in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Koyasan averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during spring. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Hoi An