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

Should you visit Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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 Kanchanaburi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a educational, reflective, and somber town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kanchanaburi travel costs.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a natural, beautiful, and peaceful national park. The beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking. See Chichibu-Tama-Kai travel costs.

Kanchanaburi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kanchanaburi. Although Kanchanaburi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations, Kanchanaburi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kanchanaburi is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Kanchanaburi is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. It is also well known for The Death Railway Bridge ("the Bridge on the River Kwai"). Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

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

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

Kanchanaburi is great for its historical sights. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kanchanaburi. The city is most recognized for the Bridge on the River Kwai (Death Railway Bridge), which you can walk across or take a train across. The city also has the Thailand Burma Railway Center and Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, the Memorial Museum, Chungkai Cemetery, and the JEATH War Museum.

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 Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kanchanaburi. While food isn't the first thing that comes to mind here, you'll find markets with great street food as well as interesting riverside and floating restaurants. A local specialty that you should try is the gaeng paa pla khang (jungle curry). There are also western style restaurants if you need a break from the curry. Many visitors head to Mae Nam Khwae Road for most of their meals.

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 Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Kanchanaburi has a few options to choose from. The backpacker scene keeps the nightlife active. You'll find locals and tourists mingling along Maenam Kwai Road. You'll also find several clubs along Song Kwae Road.

People don't go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the nightlife. Soaking up the natural beauty is what brings people here, not the nightlife.

Is Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kanchanaburi. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

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

Is Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai More Beautiful?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Chichibu-Tama-Kai is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This park is perfectly positioned to offer a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. It's filled with beautiful forests and serene hiking trails that make for a wonderful day away.

Kanchanaburi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanchanaburi. Although most people think of "The Bridge over the River Kwai" when they think of Kanchanaburi, for families, there are actually a number of outdoor adventures in the area that kids will enjoy. Biking, hiking, and kayaking are all popular. The locals are also very friendly and welcoming to children.

Is Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Kanchanaburi is a good town for couples to visit. It's an educational and informative place to visit, but there are also outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together.

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

Kanchanaburi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kanchanaburi. There are plenty of hostels to choose from in the area, and like many places in Thailand, it is an affordable place to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

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

Kanchanaburi is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Kanchanaburi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

Public transit is generally 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 Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Kanchanaburi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Kanchanaburi is a somewhat walkable town. There is a Walking Street in the town that has restaurants and nightlife.

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

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

How long in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

Families should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi. 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 Kanchanaburi than Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Kanchanaburi.

One day in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Kanchanaburi, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Chichibu-Tama-Kai, many people enjoy the that this relaxing national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With museums and nightlife around the reflective town of Kanchanaburi, 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the reflective destination of Kanchanaburi. 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.

You'll find around the natural destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kanchanaburi or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Kanchanaburi is a popular choice for travelers. This town 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place to visit. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

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

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kanchanaburi and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kanchanaburi year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kanchanaburi is generally a little warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 29°C (84°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Kanchanaburi as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi usually gets more rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. July to October in Kanchanaburi is the rainy season.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Kanchanaburi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kanchanaburi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. In the winter, Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kanchanaburi in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In January, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Kanchanaburi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kanchanaburi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring for the natural beauty.

Kanchanaburi can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 32°C (89°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Kanchanaburi.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Kanchanaburi