A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Kamakura for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Sukhothai or Kamakura?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Kamakura can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a historical, cultural, and under-rated city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Kamakura

Kamakura is a quaint, charming, and laid back coastal city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Kamakura: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kamakura. Although Sukhothai and Kamakura are both popular with visitors, Kamakura has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kamakura is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Sukhothai is known for its historical sights and shopping. Kamakura is more touristy than Sukhothai and is popular for its historic temples and shrines as well as its popular beaches. It is also home to the Great Buddha. Sukhothai is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Kamakura?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Sukhothai or Kamakura.

Many visitors head to Sukhothai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Kamakura can be an interesting and educational experience. This ancient city is filled with historic landmarks such as the Great Buddha, Hokokuji Temple, Hasedera Temple, and Hachimangu Shrine, among many others.

Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Kamakura? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Kamakura can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kamakura. Dining is part of the fun in this beautiful town. There are many great restaurants where you can sample luxury dishes, but there are also street food stalls with egg pancakes or noodle dishes.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Nightlife?

Kamakura is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Kamakura has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a diverse mix of bars and music venues. The nightlife scene is particularly active during the summer months when visitors head to the beach, but throughout the year you'll find tachinomiya standing bars, international style pubs, and jazz clubs where locals like to hang out.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Beaches?

Kamakura is very good for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kamakura to enjoy the beach. Many locals from Tokyo or Yokohama head here during July and August to cool off at the beach, relax in the sun, and go surfing. The beaches can get crowded, but they're long and sandy and can make for a nice escape.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its historic old town. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kamakura. It's a quaint historic town with many shrines, temples, and historic landmarks that reflect its long running political past.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Hiking?

Kamakura is very good for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamakura. Just outside of town there are many hiking trails that crisscross through the wooded hills and connect the many temples. Many of the trails are relatively short and take just an hour or two to complete.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Sukhothai is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Kamakura is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sukhothai is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kamakura. While the city itself is ancient, you can head to Kamakura Komachi-dori Street to find trendy boutiques and modern shopping. This is a popular place to pick up a souvenir or check out the current fashions.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Kamakura.

Sukhothai is a family-friendly city. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kamakura. It's a town that's filled with history and character, which isn't every kids cup of tea. If you're traveling with young kids you might want to head to beach for a bit. There are also ice cream and donut shops that you can use as well to break up the sightseeing.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Couples?

Kamakura is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Kamakura makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many couples enjoy visiting this quaint town as a day trip from Tokyo. There are impressive temples as well as restaurants and gardens.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai and Kamakura are both good destinations for backpackers.

Sukhothai is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kamakura. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo, but there are also some affordable hostels that make it an easy place to spend the night.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Sukhothai and Kamakura.

Sukhothai has some public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

You'll find some public transit in Kamakura, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a city bus system, but for the more remote places you'll want to take a taxi.

Is Sukhothai or Kamakura a more walkable city?

Kamakura is very good for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Kamakura is somewhat walkable. It's a small city, and most of the sights can be reached on foot.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Kamakura Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamakura or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sukhothai or Kamakura to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sukhothai than Kamakura because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamakura.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kamakura than Sukhothai 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 Kamakura.

One day in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

The city of Sukhothai offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of Kamakura. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kamakura has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Sukhothai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sukhothai, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Kamakura. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back coastal city of Kamakura. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Kamakura is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Kamakura?

Kamakura has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sukhothai. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Kamakura, 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 Sukhothai or Kamakura?

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

Should I visit Sukhothai or Kamakura in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Kamakura. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kamakura because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sukhothai is a little warmer than Kamakura in the summer. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Kamakura fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the summer, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kamakura. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in July than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Kamakura in the Autumn?

Both Kamakura and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamakura this time of year.

In the autumn, Sukhothai is much warmer than Kamakura. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sukhothai in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Kamakura averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during autumn. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kamakura. It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In October, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 177 mm (7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Sukhothai is October to April. The rainy season in Sukhothai is May to October.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Kamakura in the Winter?

Both Kamakura and Sukhothai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamakura for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Kamakura. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 25°C (77°F), and Kamakura fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the winter, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kamakura receives 175 hours of full sun.

Sukhothai usually gets less rain in January than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Kamakura in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Kamakura. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kamakura in the spring for the beaches.

It's very hot in Sukhothai this time of the year. Sukhothai is much warmer than Kamakura in the spring. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 32°C (89°F) in April, and Kamakura fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Sukhothai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Kamakura during spring. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Kamakura receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kamakura receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Kamakura. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kamakura receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.

Typical Weather for Kamakura and Sukhothai