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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Matsue?

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 Matsue 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 spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Matsue

Matsue is a quiet, peaceful, and pretty town. The beauty of Matsue is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Matsue travel costs.

Similan Islands and Matsue: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Matsue than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Matsue is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Matsue is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. Also, Matsue is famous for the Matsue Castle. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Matsue?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Matsue 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 Matsue. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Matsue 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.

Matsue has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.

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 Matsue Better for Nightlife?

Matsue is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Matsue. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.

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 Matsue Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Matsue is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Matsue is not a beach destination.

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Matsue is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue Better for its Old Town?

Matsue is a town 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 Matsue. The town has one of the last of the twelve original castles that are still in Japan. There are also many canals that cross the town.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a island chain with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Matsue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Matsue is a town with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Matsue. Kyomise Shopping District is a charming street near Ohashi Bridge. It is lined with shops and restaurants and tourists will enjoy visiting the souvenir and specialty stores in the area.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. 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.

With stunning beauty, Matsue attracts visitors from all around. This is a pretty town with a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and a lakefront setting.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Matsue are notable 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 Matsue. Kids will enjoy the city's history as much as adults. There are several temples and shrines to explore as well as Lake Shinji. The best views of the lake are from the Shimane Art Museum.

Is Similan Islands or Matsue Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Matsue is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it 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.

Matsue is a good island chain for couples to visit. Castles, gardens, and museums all make this a beautiful and romantic destination. Couples will enjoy immersing themselves in the city's history. There's also a beautiful lake and the impressive Matsue Vogel Park.

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

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

Matsue is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and guesthouses as well as budget hotels around town for backpackers.

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

Matsue is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Matsue can get you to some places easily. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes.

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 Matsue a more walkable city?

Matsue 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.

Matsue is a very walkable town. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.

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 Matsue Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Matsue or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Similan Islands and Matsue. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than in Matsue. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Matsue.

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

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

One day in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Similan Islands. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The peaceful destination of Matsue offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Similan Islands is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The town of Matsue offers museums and food. 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 Matsue?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Similan Islands or Matsue?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the spectacular destination of Similan Islands. This island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Matsue. 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 Contiki Tours to Japan, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan.

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

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 Matsue Expensive?.

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

Matsue 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 Matsue in the Summer?

Both Matsue and Similan Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Matsue this time of year.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Matsue in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Matsue fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

In Matsue, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 201 hours of full sun.

Matsue 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 July as Matsue. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 268 mm (10.6 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Matsue in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Matsue. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Also, many travelers come to Matsue for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is much warmer than Matsue. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Matsue averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Matsue during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 173 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Matsue receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Matsue. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Matsue in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Matsue. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Matsue in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Matsue can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Matsue. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Matsue fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Similan Islands this time of the year. In the winter, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Matsue. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Matsue receives 84 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Matsue. Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Matsue. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Matsue in the Spring?

Both Matsue and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Matsue for the natural beauty during these months.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Matsue in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Matsue fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Matsue during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Matsue receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Matsue. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Matsue. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Matsue receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Typical Weather for Matsue and Similan Islands