A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Nagano for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Nagano. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a undiscovered, secluded, and remote island. The beauty of Koh Tarutao is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Nagano

Nagano is a scenic, historic, and traditional city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Nagano attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Nagano travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Nagano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nagano. Although Koh Tarutao and Nagano are both popular with visitors, Nagano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nagano is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao is known for its beaches. Nagano is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its historic temples, beautiful mountain setting, and being the host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. It is also home to Zenko-ji Temple. Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Nagano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nagano and Koh Tarutao. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Skiing?

Nagano is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Koh Tarutao is not a skiing destination.

Nagano draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. The city hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and many of the skiing events were held at ski resorts in the area. In the Nagano Prefecture you'll find several ski resorts with some of the most popular being the Hakuba ski areas, Shiga Kogen, Nozawa Onsen, and Myoko Kogen.

Koh Tarutao is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Nagano is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nagano. The area is filled with history and there are many places to explore. Matsumoto Castle, the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, Zenko-ji Temple, and Togakushi Shrine are just some of the highlights.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Nagano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagano is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Nagano has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many of Japan's culinary favorites here like ramen, udon, sushi, and sashimi. There are also regional dishes and some comfort food like Tonkatsu and Oyaki Dumplings.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Nightlife?

Nagano is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Nagano has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is varied, from local and intimate venues, to wild and crazy clubs. You'll find all styles and activities such that whatever you're looking for, the city likely won't disappoint.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Resorts?

Nagano is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Nagano has a few great resort options. You'll find wonderful mountain resorts throughout the entire prefecture.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is terrific for the beach. However, Nagano is not a beach destination.

Koh Tarutao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Nagano is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for its Old Town?

Nagano is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Nagano has an old town worth visiting. Throughout the prefecture there is a lot of history and charming towns. If you're willing to get out of Nagano City, you can enjoy an area filled with tradition and culture. In particular, Tsumago-juku was the first preserved old town in Japan.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Koh Tarutao and Nagano, and they are very good.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nagano. The surrounding area is filled with stunning scenery, natural beauty, and beautiful hikes. You'll find shrines and temples, historic villages, nice views, and peaceful walks throughout the region. One of the most unique walks is along the highest road in Japan, the Norikura Echo Line. The route is at 8,800 feet and is lined with ten meter high snow walls. It's open from from late April to the end of June every year.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Nagano is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Nagano has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping streets that are fun to explore including the historic street of Naka-mise. This street is lined with tea shops, cafes, traditional stores, and more. While there aren't a huge number of shopping centers around town, Midori Nagano is one of the biggest.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Koh Tarutao and Nagano.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Nagano is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is found in a beautiful part of Japan. It's surrounded by mountains and filled with history and historic sights.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Families?

Nagano is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nagano. Chibikko Ninja Village is a great place for kids with climbing walls, indoor playgrounds, and more. There are also a number of sports facilities around town, and you can keep the sport theme going with a visit to the Nagano Olympic Museum. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Nagano Chausuyama Zoo and for little kids, the Nagano City Joyama Zoo is nice.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koh Tarutao. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Nagano is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Koh Tarutao is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Nagano is a good island for couples to visit. The city has a lot of history and beauty, making it a romantic destination for couples. There are also outdoor activities as well as a number of sports that you can enjoy.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tarutao and Nagano are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nagano. There are several good hostels in the area, as well as some great activities for young travelers, backpackers, and sports enthusiasts.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano Better for Students?

Nagano is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Nagano. It's relative affordability combined with its close proximity to Tokyo and laid back populations make this a nice place to study.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Nagano is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Nagano has some public transit options. The main station in town is Nagano Station. There's a bus and train system through the area, including buses that run to Zenkoji Temple. There's also a bus that goes to the Togakushi area and takes about an hour. However, renting a car will give you more freedom and efficiency. .

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Nagano a more walkable city?

Nagano is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Nagano is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable and there are hiking trails around the Togakushi area, where you'll find many shrines and other attractions.

Koh Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Nagano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagano or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Nagano. In our opinion, Nagano has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nagano than Koh Tarutao. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 1-3 days is enough time in Nagano.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nagano than Koh Tarutao. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nagano that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nagano than Koh Tarutao 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 Nagano.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic city of Nagano. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Nagano. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The traditional city of Nagano offers museums and skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Nagano. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Nagano Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano?

Nagano has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tarutao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Nagano. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Nagano because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Nagano. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Nagano receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Nagano. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 222 mm (8.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Nagano. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nagano this time of year.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Nagano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Nagano fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite rainy in Nagano. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Nagano. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 227 mm (9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano in the Winter?

Both Nagano and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Nagano for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagano. In the winter, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Nagano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Tarutao in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Nagano averages at about 2°C (36°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagano. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Nagano. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 446 mm (17.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Nagano in the Spring?

Both Nagano and Koh Tarutao during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Nagano in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Nagano. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 29°C (85°F), and Nagano fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Nagano. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Nagano receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Typical Weather for Nagano and Koh Tarutao