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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Yamaguchi?

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 Yamaguchi 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 idyllic, remote, and spectacular island chain. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food.

Similan Islands and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Yamaguchi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Similan Islands. Although Similan Islands and Yamaguchi are both popular with visitors, Similan Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums, food, and nightlife. Yamaguchi is more touristy than Similan Islands and is known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways. Similan Islands is popular for its world class diving and remote setting. It is also home to the undersea world.

How is Similan Islands different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Similan Islands specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Yamaguchi Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Similan Islands are among the best in the world. 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.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Both Similan Islands and Yamaguchi are destinations which offer good hiking.

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

Yamaguchi offers some nice hiking trails. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Is Similan Islands or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Yamaguchi are good 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 Yamaguchi. 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 Similan Islands or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Similan Islands has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Yamaguchi frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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

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

Yamaguchi is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

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

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

Yamaguchi has some public transit options. There are buses through the city and prefecture.

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 Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Similan Islands and Yamaguchi are good when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Yamaguchi?

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

Couples should spend more time in Similan Islands than Yamaguchi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Similan Islands that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Similan Islands or Yamaguchi?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island chain of Similan Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The scenic destination of Yamaguchi offers food and museums. 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 Yamaguchi?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the remote destination of Similan Islands. 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 island chain offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The town of Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the spectacular island chain of Similan Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island chain makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island chain has to offer.

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi?

Similan Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Similan Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Yamaguchi. 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 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 Similan Islands and Yamaguchi, we can see that Similan Islands 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 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 Yamaguchi.

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 Yamaguchi Expensive?.

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In July, Similan Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Yamaguchi. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi and Similan Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Similan Islands because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in October than Yamaguchi. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to May is the dry season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the museums and the cuisine.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Yamaguchi in the winter. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In January, Similan Islands usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Similan Islands as well as Yamaguchi. Similan Islands attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Similan Islands is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Similan Islands in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Similan Islands receives a lot of rain in the spring. Similan Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Yamaguchi. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. June to September in Similan Islands is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Similan Islands