A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nagoya vs. Koh Phi Phi for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi? 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.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nagoya travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Koh Phi Phi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Nagoya is known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Nagoya and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also home to Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry.

How is Nagoya different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Nagoya is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Nagoya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nagoya is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Nagoya is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi.

Nagoya has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Nagoya is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Phi Phi is a great choice. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Nagoya is not a resort destination.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nagoya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Koh Phi Phi a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Nagoya is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for the beach. However, Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Phi Phi. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Nagoya is not a beach destination.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Nagoya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Nagoya is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Nagoya is well-known for its shopping. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Nagoya is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Nagoya is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Nagoya is a very family-friendly destination. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for couples. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Koh Phi Phi makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Nagoya is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Phi Phi, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

Nagoya is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Nagoya. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Nagoya is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Nagoya has some very good public transit options. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout the city.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Nagoya is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Nagoya is a very walkable city. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached on foot.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Nagoya Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Nagoya?

How long in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than Nagoya 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 Phi Phi.

One day in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Nagoya is a under-the-radar city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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.

A weekend in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Nagoya is a often overlooked 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

The under-the-radar city of Nagoya offers shopping 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. 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.

A week in Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nagoya. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the stunning destination of Koh Phi Phi. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 2190 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nagoya and Koh Phi Phi. The summer months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Nagoya is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. Nagoya usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Nagoya gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nagoya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nagoya usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nagoya as well as Koh Phi Phi. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Nagoya is much colder than Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nagoya averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Nagoya often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nagoya usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Nagoya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nagoya for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nagoya. In the winter, Nagoya is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nagoya in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Nagoya gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nagoya usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March.

Should I visit Nagoya or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Nagoya during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nagoya in the spring for the activities around the city. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In April, Nagoya is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Nagoya average around 14°C (58°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

In Koh Phi Phi, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Nagoya often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. Nagoya usually gets more rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Nagoya gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Nagoya