A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Tokyo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Chang or Tokyo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Tokyo, 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. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Tokyo

Tokyo is a vibrant, iconic, and eclectic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Koh Chang and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tokyo than Koh Chang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tokyo is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Tokyo is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. Also, Tokyo is famous for The Sensō-ji Temple. Koh Chang is well known for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Koh Chang different from Tokyo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tokyo is very popular for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tokyo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

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 Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tokyo is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Tokyo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

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

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Music?

Tokyo is very popular for live music. However, Koh Chang is not a live music destination.

Tokyo is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Koh Chang is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Tokyo is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tokyo 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.

Tokyo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is renowned for the beach. However, Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Chang. 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.

Tokyo is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is adequate for hiking. However, Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in 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.

Tokyo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

Tokyo is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Tokyo. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tokyo is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Couples?

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

Koh Chang makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

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 Koh Chang or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang is not popular with students.

Tokyo is a great destination 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.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

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

Tokyo is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Tokyo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

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 Tokyo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

Both Koh Chang and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tokyo than in Koh Chang. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tokyo.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Koh Chang. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Chang than Tokyo. 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 Tokyo than Koh Chang 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 Koh Chang or Tokyo?

In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this serene destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island 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.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. 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.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. In Koh Chang, 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.

People visit Tokyo because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Chang or Tokyo?

You'll find food and nightlife around the scenic destination of Koh Chang. 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 plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Tokyo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tokyo, one week is sufficent for most. 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 2-Week Tours in Japan, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Chang and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo 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 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 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 Tokyo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Tokyo?

Tokyo 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 Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Tokyo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tokyo for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Koh Chang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo during summer. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tokyo 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 Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Tokyo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Tokyo. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in October than Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 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 Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo 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, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In the winter, Koh Chang is much warmer than Tokyo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Chang in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Tokyo averages at about 5°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during winter. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Tokyo in the Spring?

Both Tokyo 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, many travelers come to Tokyo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 29°C (84°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the spring, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 161 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 Koh Chang. Koh Chang usually gets less rain in April than Tokyo. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Koh Chang