A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Kamakura for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Phuket or Kamakura?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Kamakura, 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 party-hard, stunning, and activity-filled resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a charming, laid back, and ancient coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Phuket and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Kamakura?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kamakura than Phuket. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Kamakura is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and hiking, while Phuket attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Kamakura and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Kamakura is famous for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches. It is also well known for the Great Buddha.

How is Phuket different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamakura 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 Kamakura?

Kamakura is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kamakura can be an interesting and educational experience. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kamakura is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kamakura. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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."

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Phuket is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Kamakura has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Resorts?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Kamakura is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Phuket is a great choice. 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.

Kamakura is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Phuket. 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.

Kamakura is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Phuket is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Phuket. 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.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Kamakura is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Kamakura to see the old town. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Kamakura is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Kamakura has hiking trails worth exploring. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Kamakura?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kamakura and Phuket.

Phuket offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Kamakura has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Families?

Phuket and Kamakura are both nice destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Phuket. 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.

Kamakura offers lots of family activities. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Phuket and Kamakura are both very good 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.

Kamakura is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Is Phuket or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kamakura 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 Kamakura. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

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 Kamakura Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Kamakura.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Kamakura offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Phuket or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Phuket and Kamakura both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Kamakura is a somewhat walkable resort island. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Phuket or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Phuket than Kamakura 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 Kamakura.

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

One day in Phuket or Kamakura?

The resort island of Phuket offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kamakura. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Phuket or Kamakura?

Phuket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kamakura 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 Kamakura?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamakura. 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 Kamakura?

Phuket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phuket has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Kamakura. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Phuket and Kamakura, we can see that Phuket 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Kamakura Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Kamakura?

Kamakura has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Kamakura, 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 Phuket or Kamakura?

Kamakura 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 Kamakura in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Kamakura. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, most visitors come to Kamakura for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 137 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Kamakura. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Kamakura in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Kamakura. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Phuket is much warmer than Kamakura in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Kamakura fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 129 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket usually gets more rain in October than Kamakura. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Should I visit Phuket or Kamakura in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Phuket is much warmer than Kamakura. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Kamakura averages at about 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Phuket is December to March.

Should I visit Phuket or Kamakura in the Spring?

Both Kamakura and Phuket during the spring 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 Kamakura for the beaches.

In April, Phuket is generally much warmer than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 161 hours of full sun.

Kamakura gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets less rain in April than Kamakura. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Phuket