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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

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 Sapporo. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Sapporo

Sapporo is a snowy, vibrant, and laid-back city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Koh Tarutao and Sapporo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sapporo. Although Koh Tarutao and Sapporo are popular destinations, Sapporo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sapporo is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sapporo is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its skiing, winter activities, and the yearly Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also well known for Odori Park. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Sapporo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Koh Tarutao or Sapporo Better for Skiing?

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

Sapporo draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are many great ski areas that are an easy day trip from the center of town. Very close by you'll find Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort and Sapporo Teine is where the 1972 Winter Olympics were held. It's divided into the family-friendly Olympia Zone and the more advanced Highland Zone.

Koh Tarutao is not a skiing destination.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. There are a number of shrines and museums in the city. Make sure you check out Hokkaidō Shrine, Sapporo TV Tower, Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Sapporo Science Center.

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 Sapporo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Sapporo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine focuses on the world class fishing in the area as well as the great agriculture. Pork is a common meat ingredient and many dishes include ramen, vegetables, or grilled seafood.

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 Sapporo Better for Nightlife?

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

Sapporo has a large number of nightlife venues. The city's nightlife scene is laid back and mostly concentrated in the Susukino area. In particular, King Xmhu is famous for its party nights and wild decor.

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 Sapporo Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is mediocre for its luxury resorts. However, Sapporo is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. 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.

Sapporo is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sapporo Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Sapporo 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.

Sapporo is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sapporo Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a great island for hiking. However, Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Tarutao for the hiking trails. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Sapporo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

Sapporo is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sapporo. Shopping malls are the most popular places to enjoy browsing the stores. This is particularly nice during the snowy winter months when you can escape into the heated malls.

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 Sapporo Better for Families?

Sapporo 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 Sapporo. The city has many activities for families, any time of year. There's skiing and winter sports in the winter and theme parks and camping in the summer. There's also a Puppet Theater and indoor play areas for when the weather is poor.

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 Sapporo Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Sapporo both very good destinations for a couple.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Sapporo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the parks, gardens, museums, and winter sports in the area. A highlight for everyone is a visit to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, which features many ice sculptures.

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

Sapporo is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sapporo. There are a number of hostels around town and many fun activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sapporo Better for Students?

Sapporo is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Sapporo. The city is welcoming to international students and many people enjoy studying at Sapporo International University.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Sapporo is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Sapporo can get you to most places easily. Most visitors use the subway system to get around. There are three lines - the Namboku Line, Tozai Line, and Toho Line- all of which pass through Odori Station. The city also has a streetcar and buses.

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 Sapporo a more walkable city?

Sapporo is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Sapporo is a very walkable destination. The city center, where you'll find many of the attractions, is walkable. Susukino Station is about a 20 or 30 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station.

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 Sapporo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sapporo or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Sapporo. In our opinion, Sapporo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sapporo than Koh Tarutao. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sapporo 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 Sapporo.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

In Koh Tarutao, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Sapporo is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Sapporo?

In Koh Tarutao, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tarutao has to offer.

Sapporo is a park-filled big city where you can fill many days. 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 Sapporo?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The vibrant city of Sapporo offers museums and skiing. 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 Sapporo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Many people enjoy the when visiting Koh Tarutao. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Sapporo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Tarutao and Sapporo, we can see that Sapporo 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 Tarutao Expensive? and Is Sapporo Expensive?.

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

Sapporo 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 Sapporo in the Summer?

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

Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Sapporo in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Sapporo fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Sapporo. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sapporo in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Sapporo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Sapporo averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite rainy in Sapporo. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Sapporo. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 116 mm (4.6 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 Sapporo in the Winter?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Sapporo. In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Sapporo. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Sapporo fluctuates around -5°C (24°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sapporo. In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Sapporo. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sapporo in the Spring?

Both Sapporo 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 Sapporo in the spring for the activities around the city.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Sapporo in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Sapporo fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Sapporo. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Sapporo receives 62 mm (2.4 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 Sapporo and Koh Tarutao