A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Tokyo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Khao Lak or Tokyo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Tokyo 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.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a laid back, relaxed, and friendly area. Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a cutting edge, high tech, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Tokyo travel costs.

Khao Lak and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Khao Lak, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tokyo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Khao Lak is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Khao Lak is well known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. Tokyo is well known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple.

How is Khao Lak different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tokyo that are not to be missed. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Tokyo have been singled out for their culinary prowess. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Khao Lak has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

If you're looking for night time activities Khao Lak has a few options to choose from. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Khao Lak is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is a world class music destination. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Khao Lak is not a live music destination.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Khao Lak. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Tokyo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Khao Lak. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Khao Lak because of it's amazing beauty. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Tokyo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's colorful skyscrapers and historic temples make this a truly one-of-a-kind place to explore.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an extremely popular city to visit for families. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Khao Lak is very family-friendly. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is renowned for couples. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Khao Lak makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Tokyo is a very popular place to visit for couples. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tokyo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Tokyo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a very popular city for students. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Khao Lak is not popular with students.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Tokyo is top-notch. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

While Khao Lak offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Is Khao Lak or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Tokyo on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Both Khao Lak and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Khao Lak. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Khao Lak 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 Tokyo.

One day in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this friendly destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Tokyo is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Khao Lak or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Tokyo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Tokyo?

In Khao Lak, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this serene destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Tokyo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tokyo has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a larger population, and is about 4900 times larger than the population of Khao Lak. When comparing the sizes of Khao Lak and Tokyo, 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 Khao Lak or Tokyo?

Tokyo has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Khao Lak experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Tokyo in the Summer?

Both Tokyo and Khao Lak during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tokyo in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Khao Lak is generally around the same temperature as Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 28°C (82°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Khao Lak. In the summer, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

Tokyo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Tokyo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tokyo for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Tokyo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Khao Lak gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Tokyo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Tokyo. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Khao Lak is much warmer than Tokyo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Khao Lak in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Tokyo averages at about 5°C (42°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the winter, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Khao Lak usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In April, Khao Lak is generally much warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 29°C (83°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In April, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Tokyo. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Khao Lak is November to April. The rainy season in Khao Lak is May to October.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Khao Lak