A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kanazawa vs. Koh Phi Phi for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi can help you decide which place is right for you.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a cultural, well-preserved, and historic city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a rustic, remote, and tropical island. Many visitors also come to Koh Phi Phi because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi are popular destinations, Koh Phi Phi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kanazawa attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Kanazawa and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also well known for Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Kanazawa is famous for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens.

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

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

Kanazawa is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Kanazawa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

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 Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kanazawa is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kanazawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. 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.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is great for nightlife. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Koh Phi Phi for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is not a resort destination.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its beaches. However, Kanazawa 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.

Kanazawa is not a beach destination.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is a popular place for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kanazawa. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is great for hiking. However, Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Phi Phi for the hiking trails. 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.

Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Kanazawa is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Kanazawa is well-known for its shopping. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

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 Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Phi Phi because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Kanazawa is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Kanazawa offers lots of family activities. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for romance. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Koh Phi Phi. 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 Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Kanazawa is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Kanazawa. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Kanazawa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

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

Is Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Kanazawa is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Kanazawa is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Kanazawa?

How long in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than in Kanazawa. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Kanazawa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Kanazawa. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful island of Koh Phi Phi offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the well-preserved destination of Kanazawa. This city 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Phi Phi, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

The well-preserved city of Kanazawa offers shopping and museums. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanazawa. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Kanazawa has a larger population, and is about 460 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi?

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Kanazawa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kanazawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Kanazawa is around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kanazawa in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Kanazawa gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. In July, Kanazawa usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Kanazawa during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In October, Kanazawa is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Kanazawa average around 17°C (62°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Kanazawa often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. Kanazawa usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 203 mm (8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanazawa and Koh Phi Phi. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

It's quite cold in Kanazawa in the winter. Kanazawa is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the winter. The daily temperature in Kanazawa averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, 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. Kanazawa usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Kanazawa gets 67 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kanazawa usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season.

Should I visit Kanazawa or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kanazawa as well as Koh Phi Phi. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In the spring, Kanazawa is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kanazawa in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In the spring, Kanazawa often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kanazawa usually gets more rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Kanazawa gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Kanazawa