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

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

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

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

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both popular with visitors, Koh Lipe has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Lipe 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. Chichibu-Tama-Kai is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo. Koh Lipe is popular for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere. It is also home to Sunrise Beach.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.


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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

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 Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Koh Lipe is mediocre for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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

In Koh Lipe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.


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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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

Koh Lipe is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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

Koh Lipe is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

You'll find superb hiking in both Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lipe. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Many visitors go to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails. 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.


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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

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

Koh Lipe is a good destination for shopping. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

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

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Koh Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

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.

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Koh Lipe 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 Lipe is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

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

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Lipe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Public transit is mostly 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 Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe
Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai both are superb when exploring on foot.

Koh Lipe is very walkable. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

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


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

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

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

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Lipe than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Koh Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Koh Lipe 3-7 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 1-2

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

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Koh Lipe, 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.

The beautiful national park of Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the local island of Koh Lipe, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tranquil destination of Koh Lipe, 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.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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

Koh Lipe is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Koh Lipe?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Koh Lipe is $85, while the average daily cost in Chichibu-Tama-Kai is $69. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Koh Lipe $44
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Koh Lipe $88
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $68
Compare Hotels in Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Looking for a hotel in Koh Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Koh Lipe


Hotels in Chichibu-Tama-Kai


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koh Lipe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koh Lipe $18
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Koh Lipe

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Koh Lipe:

  • Private Transfer Pak Bara Pier to Hatyai Airport by Van: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Koh Lipe or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Prices for flights to both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Lipe change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Koh Lipe $26
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koh Lipe $23
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $7.13

Tours and Activities in Koh Lipe

Here are a few actual costs in Koh Lipe for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hours Tour Sunset Cruise Around Lipe: $15
  • Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) 1 day Experience: $111
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands: $21
  • Experience the Koh Lipe Frontier in the Eastern Adang Archipelago: $25
  • Full-Day Koh Lipe 7 Islands Snorkeling Experience with Lunch: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koh Lipe $8.18
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai $8.30


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

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



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

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

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Lipe during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lipe because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lipe. Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in July than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Koh Lipe 27°C (81°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 25°C (78°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lipe and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lipe year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Lipe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Koh Lipe is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Koh Lipe.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Koh Lipe 27°C (81°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 17°C (62°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Lipe as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Lipe attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold. In January, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (80°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Koh Lipe usually gets more rain in January than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Koh Lipe 27°C (80°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Lipe are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Lipe throughout the year. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Chichibu-Tama-Kai this time of year.

Koh Lipe is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Lipe is December to April. The rainy season in Koh Lipe is May to October.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Koh Lipe 29°C (85°F) 
    Chichibu-Tama-Kai 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe Chichibu-Tama-Kai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°C (80°F) 50 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 29°C (84°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 29°C (85°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 244 mm (9.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 224 mm (8.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 269 mm (10.6 in) 25°C (78°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 262 mm (10.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 355 mm (14 in) 23°C (73°F) 177 mm (7 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 281 mm (11.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 27°C (80°F) 204 mm (8 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 6°C (43°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)


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