A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pattaya vs. Dewa Sanzan for Food, Attractions, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan 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.

Pattaya

Pattaya is a active, vibrant, and high energy resort city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Pattaya travel costs.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a traditional, religious, and sacred religious site. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Dewa Sanzan travel costs.

Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pattaya than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pattaya is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its hiking. Pattaya is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is known for its beautiful beaches, plethora of amusement parks, and its party town reputation. Also, Pattaya is famous for the Sanctuary of Truth. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Pattaya different from Dewa Sanzan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan.

Pattaya offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural attractions near town such as the Sanctuary of Truth, Wat Yansangwararam, and Wat Phra Yai (the Big Buddha).

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dewa Sanzan. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

Is the Food Better in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Pattaya has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Street food is what this city is all about. You'll find streets lined with restaurants, but you'll also find snacks and other culinary treats at every corner. Khao Gaeng (curried rice with meat or vegetables), Kai Jeow (omelet over rice), and Moo Ping (grilled pork) are among the favorites.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Nightlife?

Pattaya is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Pattaya is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Despite a promotional campaign to promote family vacations, this city still holds tight to its party hard reputation. You'll find live bands, international DJs, and rooftop parties any night of the week.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Resorts?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pattaya. If you're looking for built-up, all-the-frills, beach resorts, then this is your place. It's a touristy beach city with hotels are resorts that line the waterfront.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pattaya is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Pattaya. There are snorkeling and dive excursions that leave from town, or you could throw on a mask and snorkel and look for marine life right off the beach.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Beaches?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Pattaya is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are countless white sand beaches in the area that range from party-focused, to romantic, to family-friendly. The blue waters and silky sand have long made this one of the most popular beach areas in Thailand.

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is a great religious site for hiking. However, Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking trails. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Pattaya is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

Pattaya is well-known for its shopping. The city is filled with markets, malls, bazaars, and street vendors that sells everything from clothes and bathing suits, to Thai crafts or local foods.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Families?

Pattaya is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Pattaya is very family-friendly. Kids will love the amusement parks, water parks, and cultural parks. Highlights for families include Columbia Pictures Aquaverse, Ramayana Water Park, and Mini Siam. For something totally unique, check out the ice sculptures at Frost Magical Ice of Siam and for something cultural and fun you can head to Legend Siam Pattaya. Despite local efforts to promote family-friendly activities, it's important to remember that the city does still has a party town reputation. There are areas that you should avoid with kids.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly resort city. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Couples?

Both Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pattaya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beach-oriented activities around town like boat rides and water sports. You could also enjoy a spa day or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun for the day.

Dewa Sanzan is a good resort city for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan are notable places to visit.

Pattaya is a good resort city to visit for backpackers. While it used to be a party town, these days Pattaya is more of a family destination that's filled with amusement parks and family-friendly resorts. Backpackers will still find hostels and budget accommodation, but that backpacker atmosphere isn't what it used to be.

Plenty of backpackers visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pattaya is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Pattaya has some public transit options. The baht bus (songthaew) is the cheapest way to get around town. These are colorful pickup trucks with seats in the back. There are also motorbike taxis as well as regular taxis.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan a more walkable city?

Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Pattaya is generally not a very walkable resort city. There's a walking street, as well as several walkable areas, but the city is relatively large and you'll likely want to catch a ride most places.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Pattaya Worth Visiting? and Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dewa Sanzan or Pattaya?

How long in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pattaya than Dewa Sanzan 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 Pattaya.

One day in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the colorful resort city of Pattaya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This religious site offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Pattaya. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This resort 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.

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dewa Sanzan has to offer.

Five days in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

The high energy resort city of Pattaya offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

A week in Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Pattaya. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan, we can see that Pattaya 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 Pattaya Expensive? and Is Dewa Sanzan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan?

Dewa Sanzan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Pattaya experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pattaya and Dewa Sanzan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Pattaya year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dewa Sanzan for the hiking during these months.

Pattaya is a little warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the summer. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during summer. Pattaya gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 124 hours of full sun in the summer.

Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pattaya as well as Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking trails.

In the autumn, Pattaya is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pattaya in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Dewa Sanzan averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pattaya this time of the year. In the autumn, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pattaya usually gets more rain in October than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 258 mm (10.2 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Pattaya is the dry season. June to October in Pattaya is the rainy season.

Should I visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan in the Winter?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Pattaya are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Pattaya throughout the year. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dewa Sanzan in the winter. In January, Pattaya is generally much warmer than Dewa Sanzan. Daily temperatures in Pattaya average around 27°C (80°F), and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around -1°C (30°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pattaya. Pattaya usually receives more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan during winter. Pattaya gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Dewa Sanzan receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. In January, Pattaya usually receives less rain than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pattaya or Dewa Sanzan in the Spring?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Pattaya during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Pattaya because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Pattaya is much warmer than Dewa Sanzan in the spring. The daily temperature in Pattaya averages around 30°C (86°F) in April, and Dewa Sanzan fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Pattaya. In the spring, Pattaya often gets more sunshine than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dewa Sanzan receives 188 hours of full sun.

Pattaya usually gets less rain in April than Dewa Sanzan. Pattaya gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dewa Sanzan receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Pattaya. June to October is the rainy season in Pattaya.

Typical Weather for Dewa Sanzan and Pattaya