A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Kanazawa for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Kanazawa 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.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a remote, spectacular, and idyllic island chain. Many visitors also come to Similan Islands because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a cultural, well-preserved, and historic city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Kanazawa travel costs.

Similan Islands and Kanazawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kanazawa. Although Similan Islands and Kanazawa are popular destinations, Kanazawa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kanazawa is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Similan Islands attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Kanazawa is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its history, preserved architecture, and classically landscaped gardens. It is also well known for Kenroku-en Garden. Similan Islands is famous for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Kanazawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Kanazawa. The city is filled with history and you can visit the Kanazawa Castle, the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses, and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area. There are also museums such as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Kanazawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kanazawa is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kanazawa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a long history to the city's cuisine and you'll find many diverse dishes that combine traditional ingredients with international fusion. The cuisine uses a lot of seafood, but you'll also find the one pot meal of Hanton Rice, Oden (hot pot), and Jibu-ni (made with duck and vegetables).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Nightlife?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kanazawa. The town has everything from international style bars to local theaters that let you experience the traditional Japanese culture.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kanazawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Similan Islands is not to be missed. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Kanazawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is very popular for its beaches. However, Kanazawa is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Similan Islands is a very popular vacation destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Kanazawa is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for its Old Town?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for its old town. However, Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kanazawa. It's fascinating to visit both the Higashi Chaya Area with preserved Geisha houses and the Nagamachi Samurai House Area which has preserved samurai houses that line two canals. You can enter a few of the houses to see the traditional way of life.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is very good for hiking. However, Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Kanazawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kanazawa is well-known for its shopping. The city has many shopping districts that include department stores, traditional stores, and large markets. This is a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Similan Islands because of it's amazing beauty. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

Kanazawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Kanazawa are nice to visit with kids.

Similan Islands is a family-friendly island chain. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kanazawa. Myouryuji Temple is a fun temple for kids where they can play ninja and discover the hidden spaces. When the kids are burned out of history, head to Tedori Fish Land which is a theme park in the area or check out the slides at Kenmin Seaside Park. There's also the Dolls Museum and the beautiful coastline.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is very popular for romance. Also, Kanazawa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Similan Islands has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Kanazawa makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has markets, museums, and gardens that are fun to explore as a couple. You can visit the Kanazawa Castle or sample one of the many restaurants around town.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

Kanazawa is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels and affordable accommodation options that backpackers can choose from.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Students?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Kanazawa. It has a good educational environment with high quality educational institutions that appeal to international students.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kanazawa is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Kanazawa has some public transit options. There are two main buses that tourists use in town. The Kenrokuen Shuttle goes between the Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Gardens and the Kanazawa Loop Bus runs from Kanazawa Station via the Teramachi area, the Higashi Chaya District, and Omicho Market.

Public transit is generally limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

Is Similan Islands or Kanazawa a more walkable city?

Kanazawa is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Kanazawa is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable with some rolling hills. It's possible to walk to Kanazawa Castle from Kanazawa Station in about 35 minutes.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable island chain. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

For even more information, also check out Is Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Kanazawa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kanazawa or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Similan Islands or Kanazawa to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Similan Islands than Kanazawa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kanazawa.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kanazawa than Similan Islands 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 Kanazawa.

One day in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

The beautiful island chain of Similan Islands offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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.

The well-preserved destination of Kanazawa offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Similan Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The city of Kanazawa offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

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

Kanazawa is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands has to offer. This island chain offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kanazawa. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa?

Kanazawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Similan Islands experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Kanazawa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kanazawa for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Similan Islands, it's very sunny this time of the year. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during summer. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the summer.

Kanazawa receives a lot of rain in the summer. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 251 mm (9.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Kanazawa. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Kanazawa because of the shopping scene.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Kanazawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Kanazawa fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 155 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kanazawa. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 203 mm (8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Kanazawa in the winter. In the winter, Similan Islands is much warmer than Kanazawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Kanazawa averages at about 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Kanazawa during winter. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Kanazawa receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kanazawa. In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 294 mm (11.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Kanazawa in the Spring?

Both Kanazawa and Similan Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Kanazawa. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Kanazawa fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the spring, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kanazawa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Kanazawa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kanazawa. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kanazawa receives 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Typical Weather for Kanazawa and Similan Islands