A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a tropical, rainforest-covered, and lush resort island. Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a dramatic, iconic, and world renowned national park. Many visitors also come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking and museums. See Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park travel costs.

Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are popular destinations, Koh Samui has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Samui is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also well known for The Big Buddha Temple. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is famous for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests.

How is Koh Samui different from Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Samui. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a great national park for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Samui is a great resort island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not known for nightlife.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

People don't go to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the nightlife.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is a great resort island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is an amazing resort island to visit for the beach. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Samui. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Hiking?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night. In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail. The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls. Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.

Koh Samui is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Koh Samui is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of first-rate scenery and beauty in both Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

You'll find world class beauty in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park as well. The national park is home to the world renowned Mount Fuji. This volcanic peak provides a striking backdrop for the region and has long been a spiritual retreat. Within the park you'll find pristine forest, dramatic lava caves, and timeless beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. As Japan's most visited national park, you'll find many trails and activities for families. There are a number of kid-friendly hiking trails, as well as nature courses and educational programs.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park make for a high quality place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The park is an iconic setting, and couples who enjoy nature will appreciate the forested setting with its waterfalls, lava caves, and stunning natural beauty. The park has beautiful sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because it's a popular tourist destination, transportation to and from the park is relatively easy. There are also a number of amenities and resources available that will help backpackers enjoy their trip.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a few public transit options. There are train and bus systems within the park that connect the different sections. In the Mount Fuji area, buses leave from the Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations. Transportation may take longer than you expect, so it's best to plan accordingly.

Is Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park a more walkable city?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are countless hiking trails throughout the park that give you access to the region's natural beauty.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Samui due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koh Samui, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Samui than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Samui that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The rainforest-covered destination of Koh Samui offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums around the national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums around the majestic destination of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. 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 Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Samui has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the dramatic national park of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Samui Expensive? and Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Samui experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Summer?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park this time of year.

Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in July, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In July, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 202 mm (8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Autumn?

Both Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Samui during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Samui in October average around 24°C (75°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in October than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, many visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 22°C (72°F), and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (76°F) in April, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in April than Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Koh Samui