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

Should you visit Phuket or Yamaguchi?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Yamaguchi, 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 stunning, activity-filled, and energetic resort island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a scenic, traditional, and serene town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Phuket and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Yamaguchi?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Phuket than Yamaguchi. While Yamaguchi is larger than Phuket, Phuket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Phuket is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Phuket is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. It is also home to The Seated Maravija Buddha Statue (Big Buddha). Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Phuket different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. The city has a long-running farming and fishing industry, so you can be assured fresh ingredients at every meal. Dishes are still deeply rooted in the area's culinary traditions, and perhaps the most famous local delicacy is the Fugu fish, otherwise known as blowfish. It's become famous among westerners as the fish can be poisonous if not prepared correctly.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for 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.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Resorts?

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

Phuket offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Phuket to enjoy 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.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Phuket are among the best in 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.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

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

Yamaguchi has hiking trails worth exploring. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Yamaguchi?

Phuket is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Phuket and Yamaguchi are both good 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.

Yamaguchi offers lots of family activities. The city offers beautiful temples and a glimpse into Japanese culture that kids and adults alike will enjoy. There are also beautiful gardens and nearby natural scenery.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Phuket and Yamaguchi are both superb 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.

Yamaguchi is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the 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 Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi.

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 Yamaguchi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

Is Phuket or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Phuket and Yamaguchi both are good 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.

Yamaguchi is a somewhat walkable resort island. There are a number of walking trails in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Yamaguchi?

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

Families should spend more time in Phuket than Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi.

One day in Phuket or Yamaguchi?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A weekend in Phuket or Yamaguchi?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the party-hard destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

You'll find nightlife and food around the activity-filled resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

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

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. This town 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Yamaguchi?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 63% larger than the population of Phuket. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Yamaguchi, 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 Yamaguchi?

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Yamaguchi. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

In the summer, Phuket is around the same temperature as Yamaguchi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Yamaguchi. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Phuket is generally a little warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite rainy in Phuket. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Yamaguchi. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Phuket is December to March. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Should I visit Phuket or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

Both Yamaguchi and Phuket during the winter 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 visitors come to Yamaguchi in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Phuket is much warmer than Yamaguchi in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Yamaguchi. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Yamaguchi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Phuket usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Phuket