A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Chichibu-Tama-Kai for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Phuket and Chichibu-Tama-Kai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phuket. Although Phuket and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are popular destinations, Phuket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phuket is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Chichibu-Tama-Kai and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also well known for The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Chichibu-Tama-Kai is famous for its beautiful hikes and accessibility from Tokyo.

How is Phuket different from Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Phuket. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are hikes that pass by historic villages and you'll see several ancient shrines such as Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine. Between the months of June and November you may even be able to see kagura, which is a traditional Shinto dance performance that has been passed down through the generations.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Phuket is a resort island with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Phuket. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a couple of restaurants in and near the park, but if you're going for a longer hike, you're better off packing your own picnic.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Phuket is a world class party destination. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Phuket is a world class resort vacation destination. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Phuket is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Phuket is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Hiking?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chichibu-Tama-Kai. There are a range of hikes in this park that include everything from day trip hikes and multi-day treks with camping and mountain huts available. The trails run along gorges, pass by lakes, and take you through pristine forests.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Phuket is a resort island with good options for shopping. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Phuket. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Families?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very kid-friendly national park. This national park offers educational programs, hiking, and outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy. If you kids need a break from history and cities, then this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a few days.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Couples?

Phuket and Chichibu-Tama-Kai are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Phuket frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Hiking, natural beauty, and adrenaline-filled adventures all make this a wonderful couples destination for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of town.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's less than two hours from Tokyo, so backpackers can enjoy easy access to an accessible natural area.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Phuket is a resort island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Chichibu-Tama-Kai is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Phuket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. It's recommended that you have a car to efficiently explore the park. There are some bus options within the park, such as the Nishi Tokyo Bus that runs to popular hiking spots in the Okutama and Mitake areas and the Yamanashi Kotsu bus service that goes to trails in Yamanashi.

Is Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai a more walkable city?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai is a very walkable national park. There are hiking trails that cater to every level, from beginner to more experienced.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Phuket than Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

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

Couples should spend more time in Phuket than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Phuket that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chichibu-Tama-Kai than Phuket 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 Chichibu-Tama-Kai.

One day in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Phuket, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With shopping and nightlife around the party-hard resort island of Phuket, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai 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 Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

With nightlife and food around the party-hard destination of Phuket, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chichibu-Tama-Kai. 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 Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Chichibu-Tama-Kai. This national park 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Phuket Expensive? and Is Chichibu-Tama-Kai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai?

Chichibu-Tama-Kai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Phuket experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Summer?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Phuket during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Phuket is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Phuket is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Chichibu-Tama-Kai for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Chichibu-Tama-Kai can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Phuket usually gets more rain in January than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Chichibu-Tama-Kai in the Spring?

Both Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chichibu-Tama-Kai because of the natural beauty.

In April, Phuket is generally much warmer than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Chichibu-Tama-Kai fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Chichibu-Tama-Kai. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Chichibu-Tama-Kai receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Typical Weather for Chichibu-Tama-Kai and Phuket