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

Should you visit Similan Islands or Yokohama?

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 Yokohama 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and food.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a laid-back, diverse, and bright city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Similan Islands and Yokohama: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Yokohama?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yokohama. Although Similan Islands and Yokohama are popular destinations, Yokohama has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yokohama is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yokohama is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. It is also well known for the Yokohama Chinatown. Similan Islands is famous for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Yokohama?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yokohama 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 Yokohama. The city has some eclectic museums like Cupnoodles Museum, the Ramen Museum, and the Kirin Beer Factory. There are also zoos, gardens, and the largest Chinatown in Japan.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As home to the largest Chinatown in Japan, you'll find no shortage of Chinese restaurants here. You'll also find that the local cuisine uses a lot of vegetables. Local favorites include kenchin-jiru (tofu and vegetable chowder) as well as gyunabe (beef hot pot).

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 Yokohama Better for Nightlife?

Yokohama is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Yokohama has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is diverse, with lounges, pubs, and clubs throughout. It is also the home of Japan's first commercial brewery - Kinn. You'll find a good live music scene as well as everything from casual bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

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 Yokohama Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Yokohama Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is terrific for its beaches. However, Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Yokohama Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Similan Islands has hiking trails worth exploring. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Yokohama?

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

Yokohama is well-known for its shopping. The shopping scene has a laid back vibe that encourages you to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Head to Marine & Walk Yokohama, which is right by the Minato Mirai waterfront, to find boutiques and upscale vendors. Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is also one of the more famous shopping areas, but you should also check out Yokohama World Porters.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Yokohama Better for Families?

Yokohama is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Yokohama is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Kodomo no Kuni, or Children’s Land, is a theme park that has a lot to do for younger kids and a few things for older kids as well. Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park that is geared towards all ages, including rides for the older kids. Other interesting activities for families include Cupnoodles Museum, Zoorasia, and Hakkeijima Sea Paradise.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Similan Islands. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Is Similan Islands or Yokohama Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is terrific for romance. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Yokohama is a great island chain if you're traveling as a couple. You can explore the city's impressive Chinatown, enjoy the hot springs at Minato Mirai Manyo Club, or have an adrenaline filled day at Yokohama Cosmo World. There are also many museums and entertainment centers around town.

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

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

Yokohama is a good city to visit for backpackers. Most backpackers skip over this city, but there are still a number of hostels around town and some interesting activities that you can enjoy.

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 Yokohama Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Yokohama 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 Yokohama can get you to some places easily. Yokohama Station and Shin-Yokohama Station are the two main train stations. There is a subway system as well as city buses that travel around town.

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 Yokohama a more walkable city?

Yokohama 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.

Yokohama is a very walkable city. Many of the central parts of the city can be explored on foot. Most of the sites are concentrated around Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yokohama Station, which you can walk between.

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 Yokohama Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yokohama or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Yokohama?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Similan Islands than Yokohama. 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 Yokohama 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 Yokohama.

One day in Similan Islands or Yokohama?

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.

Yokohama is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Yokohama?

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.

Yokohama is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Yokohama?

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.

Yokohama 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 Yokohama?

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 Yokohama. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo.

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

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 Yokohama Expensive?.

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

Yokohama 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 Yokohama in the Summer?

Both Yokohama 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. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Similan Islands is generally around the same temperature as Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 28°C (82°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Similan Islands. In the summer, Similan Islands often gets more sunshine than Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 137 hours of full sun.

Yokohama 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 more rain in July than Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yokohama in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Similan Islands and Yokohama. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Similan Islands year-round. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year.

Similan Islands is much warmer than Yokohama in the autumn. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Yokohama fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during autumn. Similan Islands gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Yokohama 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 Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yokohama in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Similan Islands is much warmer than Yokohama. Typically, the winter temperatures in Similan Islands in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Yokohama averages at about 6°C (42°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 Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Yokohama receives 175 hours of full sun.

Similan Islands usually gets less rain in January than Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Similan Islands or Yokohama in the Spring?

Both Yokohama 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, many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Yokohama. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 29°C (83°F), and Yokohama fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually receives more sunshine than Yokohama during spring. Similan Islands gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Yokohama receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. It's quite rainy in Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Yokohama. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Yokohama receives 145 mm (5.7 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 Yokohama and Similan Islands