A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kanchanaburi vs. Koyasan for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is a informative, educational, and reflective town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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 beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Kanchanaburi and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koyasan than Kanchanaburi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koyasan is better known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kanchanaburi is more popular for its nightlife and shopping. Kanchanaburi is well known for its dark history during World War II as well as the many nearby national parks. Koyasan is well known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Also, Koyasan is famous for Kongobu-ji Head Temple.

How is Kanchanaburi different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koyasan 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 Koyasan?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Kanchanaburi and Koyasan.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Kanchanaburi and Koyasan can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Kanchanaburi has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koyasan area. 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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Kanchanaburi has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a very popular place for its old town. However, Kanchanaburi does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Kanchanaburi does not have a historic old town.

Is Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kanchanaburi 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.

Kanchanaburi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

Kanchanaburi is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kanchanaburi offers some nice shopping areas. There are lively night markets, active walking streets, and independent vendors where you can pick up souvenirs or anything that you might need.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for Families?

Both Kanchanaburi and Koyasan are notable family-friendly destinations.

Kanchanaburi is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koyasan. 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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for Couples?

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

Koyasan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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 Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanchanaburi and Koyasan are both notable 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 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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Kanchanaburi and Koyasan.

Kanchanaburi has some public transit options. The easiest way to get around town is by tuk tuk or songthaew (pick up truck).

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 Kanchanaburi or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Koyasan 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.

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

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 Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Kanchanaburi?

How long in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kanchanaburi 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 Kanchanaburi, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

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

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

One day in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

In Kanchanaburi, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 town.

A weekend in Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

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

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Koyasan?

Kanchanaburi is a great place to explore. 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.

Koyasan is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kanchanaburi. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanchanaburi. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koyasan is a popular place to visit. 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. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kanchanaburi and Koyasan, we can see that Koyasan 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 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 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 Koyasan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Kanchanaburi or Koyasan?

Koyasan 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 Koyasan in the Summer?

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

Kanchanaburi is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the summer. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the summer, Kanchanaburi often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 176 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. Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in July than Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Koyasan in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Kanchanaburi is a little warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kanchanaburi in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Koyasan averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In Kanchanaburi, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during autumn. Kanchanaburi gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kanchanaburi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kanchanaburi usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to May in Kanchanaburi is the dry season. Also, July to October is the rainy season in Kanchanaburi.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Koyasan in the Winter?

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

In January, Kanchanaburi is generally much warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Kanchanaburi average around 25°C (77°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. In the winter, Kanchanaburi often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun.

Kanchanaburi usually gets less rain in January than Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kanchanaburi or Koyasan in the Spring?

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

It's very hot in Kanchanaburi this time of the year. Kanchanaburi is much warmer than Koyasan in the spring. The daily temperature in Kanchanaburi averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kanchanaburi. Kanchanaburi usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during spring. Kanchanaburi gets 262 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, Kanchanaburi usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Kanchanaburi gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Kanchanaburi is November to May.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Kanchanaburi