A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Mashiko for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sukhothai or Mashiko?

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 Mashiko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Mashiko

Mashiko is a charming, traditional, and rural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sukhothai and Mashiko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sukhothai than Mashiko, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sukhothai is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Mashiko is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Mashiko is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its local sake, rural farms, and longstanding tradition in pottery making. Sukhothai is well known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Also, Sukhothai is famous for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park.

How is Sukhothai different from Mashiko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Mashiko is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that are focused on the local activities such as pottery. You can check out the Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan Museum, the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art, and the Entsuji Temple.

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

Sukhothai is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Mashiko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sukhothai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Mashiko offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around town that serve udon, soba, and other Japanese favorites that use local ingredients.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Mashiko is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Sukhothai has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Mashiko specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a couple of bars and pubs around town, but not a huge nightlife scene.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Mashiko does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Sukhothai to see the historical old town. 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.

Mashiko does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Mashiko. There are three mountains in the area with hiking trails that let you experience the Japanese countryside and natural beauty. These mountains are Mt. Amamakisan, Mt.Mitsudoyasan, and Mt. Takadateyama.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Sukhothai and Mashiko.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sukhothai. 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.

Mashiko is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local pottery is the main purchase in town, and there are many shops and local vendors who sell locally made pottery.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko Better for Families?

Mashiko is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Mashiko is a very family-friendly destination. Pottery is the claim to fame in this small town, and kids will thoroughly enjoy taking a children's pottery class. Its the perfect way to immerse them in the local culture in a fun and hands-on way. Farm life, and fruit picking are also popular here.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko Better for Couples?

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

Mashiko makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with local farms, pottery, and sake. Many couples enjoy spending a few days soaking up the local atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures.

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 Mashiko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mashiko is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

Mashiko is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't venture to this community, but its seeped in quaint culture and small town atmosphere.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Sukhothai and Mashiko.

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

You'll find some public transit in Mashiko, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local trains that stop by the strawberry picking farms. There are also local buses in the area.

Is Sukhothai or Mashiko a more walkable city?

Mashiko is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Mashiko is very walkable. Many people choose to walk around town and the pottery area is about a 20 minute walk from Mashiko Station.

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 Mashiko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mashiko or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

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

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

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

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

One day in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

In Sukhothai, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Even though Mashiko is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mashiko has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

In Sukhothai, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sukhothai has to offer.

Mashiko is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Mashiko?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Mashiko is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Mashiko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Mashiko 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 Coach Bus Tours in Japan, and The Best Adventure Tours to Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Mashiko, we can see that Mashiko is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Mashiko?

Sukhothai has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Mashiko. When comparing the sizes of Sukhothai and Mashiko, 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 Mashiko?

Mashiko 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 Mashiko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Mashiko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Mashiko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Mashiko. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Mashiko fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Mashiko during summer. Sukhothai gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Mashiko receives 130 hours of full sun in the summer.

Mashiko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Mashiko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Mashiko. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Mashiko in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

Sukhothai is much warmer than Mashiko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Mashiko fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sukhothai this time of the year. In the autumn, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mashiko receives 133 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Mashiko. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Mashiko in the Winter?

Both Mashiko and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Mashiko for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Mashiko can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Sukhothai is much warmer than Mashiko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Mashiko averages at about 3°C (38°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Mashiko during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Mashiko receives 181 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Mashiko in the Spring?

Both Mashiko and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Mashiko because of the small town charm.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Mashiko. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Mashiko fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai often gets more sunshine than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mashiko receives 160 hours of full sun.

Mashiko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Mashiko. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Mashiko receives 118 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai.

Typical Weather for Mashiko and Sukhothai