A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Koyasan for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phuket or Koyasan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Koyasan, 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 activity-filled, energetic, and party-hard resort island. Phuket is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Phuket travel costs.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a peaceful, serene, and spiritual town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Koyasan is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Koyasan travel costs.

Phuket and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Koyasan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Phuket than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Phuket is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Koyasan is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Phuket is more touristy than Koyasan and is known for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Also, Phuket is famous for The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Koyasan is well known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Phuket different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Koyasan 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 Koyasan can be an interesting and educational experience. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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."

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Phuket just to party. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Phuket for its luxury resorts. 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.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Phuket offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a great destination for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Koyasan to see the historical old town. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

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

Koyasan has hiking trails worth exploring. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Koyasan?

Phuket is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Phuket or Koyasan More Beautiful?

Phuket and Koyasan are somewhat similar when it comes to the notable scenery.

Phuket is a beautiful place to visit, too. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Families?

Phuket and Koyasan are both notable 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.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Phuket and Koyasan are both great 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.

Koyasan is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Is Phuket or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phuket and Koyasan are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Phuket. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Koyasan is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Phuket or Koyasan 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 Koyasan.

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 Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Phuket or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Koyasan 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.

Koyasan is a very walkable town. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Koyasan?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Phuket than Koyasan. 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 Phuket than Koyasan 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 Phuket.

One day in Phuket or Koyasan?

In Phuket, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Phuket or Koyasan?

In Phuket, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koyasan 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 Koyasan?

Phuket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phuket has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koyasan. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. In Phuket, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Koyasan is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phuket and Koyasan, we can see that Phuket is more expensive. And not only is Koyasan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koyasan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koyasan 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 Koyasan.

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

When is the best time to visit Phuket or Koyasan?

Koyasan 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 Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Koyasan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the summer. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In July, Phuket usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Phuket or Koyasan in the Autumn?

Both Koyasan and Phuket during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Phuket is a little warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phuket in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koyasan averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

Koyasan 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 October than Koyasan. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket. June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Koyasan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Phuket is generally much warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Phuket usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Koyasan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Koyasan. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Koyasan this time of year.

Phuket is much warmer than Koyasan in the spring. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 29°C (84°F) in April, and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the spring, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket usually gets less rain in April than Koyasan. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. June to October in Phuket is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Phuket