A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Couples, Hiking, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a scenic, idyllic, and serene island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a natural, beautiful, and peaceful national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Koh Chang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Chang. Although Koh Chang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Koh Chang has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Chang is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai is known for its museums and hiking. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. It is also home to White Sand Beach. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

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

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Chichibu-Tama-Kai specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Chang is a island 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 Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

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 Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang is a island with good options for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Chang has a few options to choose from. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Koh Chang is adequate for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Chang is a good destination for shopping. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

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

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

Koh Chang is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Koh Chang is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Koh Chang is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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

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

Koh Chang is a island 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 Koh Chang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

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

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

How long in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Chang than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Chang than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Chang that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

One day in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

You'll find around the national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chichibu-Tama-Kai has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With food and nightlife around the idyllic island of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With nightlife and food around the idyllic destination of Koh Chang, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Koh Chang is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This island 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 choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco 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 Koh Chang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai, we can see that Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more expensive. And not only is Koh Chang much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Chang would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang.

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

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

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

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Chang is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Chang in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite rainy in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. In January, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 26°C (79°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February.

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Chang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty.

Koh Chang is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in April than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Chang