A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kyoto vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a fascinating, traditional, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kyoto and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Kyoto and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Kyoto attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Kyoto and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Kyoto is famous for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Kyoto different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kyoto that are not to be missed. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kyoto is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kyoto makes for a great culinary experience. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its resorts. However, Kyoto is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Kyoto is revered around the world. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kyoto is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Kyoto is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Kyoto is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Kyoto is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Kyoto has plenty to offer. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for backpackers. Also, Kyoto is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Kyoto is well known for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Kyoto is very popular with students. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is well known for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Kyoto is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Kyoto on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Kyoto because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Kyoto 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Kyoto, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this high energy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Kyoto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kyoto is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the tropical destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

Kyoto has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Koh Pha Ngan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Kyoto is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In July, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Kyoto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

Kyoto is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Koh Pha Ngan. The winter months attract visitors to Kyoto because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

The weather in Kyoto can be very cold. In the winter, Kyoto is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kyoto in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Kyoto or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In April, Kyoto is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 14°C (58°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Kyoto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Kyoto usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Kyoto