A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Kanazawa for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

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 Kanazawa 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 to Koh Lipe because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Lipe travel costs.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a historic, cultural, and well-preserved city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Koh Lipe and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Lipe. Although Koh Lipe and Kanazawa are both popular with visitors, Koh Lipe has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Lipe is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kanazawa is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Kanazawa is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens. 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 Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kanazawa is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Kanazawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

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 Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kanazawa is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kanazawa makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Kanazawa is very good for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Kanazawa has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

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.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is great for its luxury resorts. However, Kanazawa is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lipe. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Kanazawa is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kanazawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe is not to be missed. 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.

Kanazawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is very popular for its beaches. However, Kanazawa is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lipe is a very popular vacation 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.

Kanazawa is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is very good for its historic old town. However, Koh Lipe does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Kanazawa to see the historical old town. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Koh Lipe does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is great for hiking. However, Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Lipe for the hiking trails. 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.

Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is a great destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Kanazawa is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

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

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa More Beautiful?

Koh Lipe is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Lipe because of it's amazing beauty. Many visitors consider this to be one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand. It still holds on to that undiscovered quality and the nearby national park offers excellent nature to explore.

Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Koh Lipe is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Lipe is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Kanazawa is a family-friendly place to visit. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe is very popular for romance. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe 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.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Lipe and Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kanazawa is very good for students. However, Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

Kanazawa is popular with students. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

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

Kanazawa is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Kanazawa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

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

Is Koh Lipe or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe and Kanazawa both are very good 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.

Kanazawa is a very walkable island. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Lipe than Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa.

Families should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa. 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 Kanazawa than Koh Lipe 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 Kanazawa.

One day in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

The beautiful island of Koh Lipe offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

The city of Kanazawa offers food and shopping. 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 Kanazawa?

Koh Lipe is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Kanazawa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kanazawa, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

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

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa?

Koh Lipe is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Lipe has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Kanazawa is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Kanazawa, we can see that Kanazawa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Kanazawa Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Lipe or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa in the Summer?

Both Kanazawa 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, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kanazawa this time of year.

Koh Lipe is around the same temperature as Kanazawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Kanazawa 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 around the same amount of rain in July as Kanazawa. Koh Lipe gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lipe and Kanazawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lipe year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kanazawa for the shopping scene.

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

Kanazawa 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 Kanazawa. Koh Lipe gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 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.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kanazawa in the Winter?

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

Kanazawa can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Koh Lipe is generally much warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Koh Lipe average around 27°C (80°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Koh Lipe usually gets less rain in January than Kanazawa. Koh Lipe gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Lipe or Kanazawa in the Spring?

Both Kanazawa 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.

Koh Lipe is much warmer than Kanazawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Lipe averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. It's quite rainy in Koh Lipe. In April, Koh Lipe usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Koh Lipe gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 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.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Koh Lipe