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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

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 Yamaguchi. 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 remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yamaguchi. Although Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi are popular destinations, Yamaguchi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yamaguchi is very popular for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Yamaguchi is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. It is also well known for Akiyoshido (a limestone cave). Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

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 Yamaguchi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Yamaguchi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yamaguchi. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Tarutao are among the best in the world. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Koh Tarutao can be found for those interested. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi are nice family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yamaguchi. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

Is Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi both great 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 Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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

Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi are both nice 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 Yamaguchi. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

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

Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi has some public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

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 Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

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

Yamaguchi is a somewhat walkable town. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

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 Yamaguchi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

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

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

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

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

One day in Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

You'll find around the island of Koh Tarutao. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the serene town of Yamaguchi. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi?

You'll find around the undiscovered destination of Koh Tarutao. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the serene destination of Yamaguchi. This town 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 Yamaguchi?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Koh Tarutao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The traditional town of Yamaguchi offers food and museums. 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 Yamaguchi?

Koh Tarutao is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Yamaguchi. 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Yamaguchi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yamaguchi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi.

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 Yamaguchi Expensive?.

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives around the same amount of rain as Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi and Koh Tarutao during the autumn 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, the autumn months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is a little warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in October than Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi 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.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Yamaguchi in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets less rain in April than Yamaguchi. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 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.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Koh Tarutao