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

Should you visit Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

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

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a cultural, under-rated, and world class city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a tranquil, scenic, and traditional town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Sukhothai and Yamaguchi: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sukhothai than Yamaguchi, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sukhothai is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Yamaguchi is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. 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. Yamaguchi is well known for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Sukhothai different from Yamaguchi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Sukhothai or Yamaguchi.

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 Yamaguchi can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.


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

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Yamaguchi can be difficult as they are each excellent 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 Yamaguchi. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Yamaguchi Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sukhothai. 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.

Yamaguchi is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some pubs and local bars, but most of the area is peaceful and tranquil, especially at night.

Is Sukhothai or Yamaguchi Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Yamaguchi 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.

Yamaguchi does not have a historic old town.


Is Sukhothai or Yamaguchi Better for Hiking?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sukhothai or Yamaguchi Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Sukhothai or Yamaguchi.

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 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 Sukhothai or Yamaguchi Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

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

Yamaguchi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its historic temples, natural beauty, and nice green space, this is a lovely city to explore as a couple.

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 Yamaguchi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

Sukhothai and Yamaguchi are both notable 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 Yamaguchi. There are a couple of hostels and budget-friendly accommodation options in the area.

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

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Yamaguchi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses through the city and prefecture.


Is Sukhothai or Yamaguchi a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Yamaguchi

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

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

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 Yamaguchi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yamaguchi or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sukhothai 2-3 
    Yamaguchi 1-2

One day in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sukhothai. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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

A weekend in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Sukhothai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic town of Yamaguchi. 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 Yamaguchi?

Sukhothai is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Yamaguchi 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo.


Which place is cheaper, Yamaguchi or Sukhothai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Sukhothai is $59, while the average daily cost in Yamaguchi is $80. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sukhothai and Yamaguchi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $23
    Yamaguchi $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $46
    Yamaguchi $92
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Yamaguchi

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Yamaguchi? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sukhothai


Hotels in Yamaguchi


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sukhothai Hotel Prices and Yamaguchi Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $17
    Yamaguchi $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sukhothai

Also for Sukhothai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $268
  • Private Transfer to Bangkok City: $322
  • One -Way Private Transfer to Chiang Mai: $187
  • Sukhothai airport: Transfer to Sukhothai Historical Park: $78
  • Sukhothai Hotel Transfer: to/from Chiang Mai Hotel Transfer: $159
  • Sukhothai : private car transfer to/from Chiang Mai: $138

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yamaguchi

Also for Yamaguchi, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Yamaguchi Ube Airport To/From Yamaguch City Private Transfer: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

Prices for flights to both Yamaguchi and Sukhothai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sukhothai $19
    Yamaguchi $22

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $33
    Yamaguchi $8.39

Tours and Activities in Sukhothai

For Sukhothai, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Cycling Sukhothai Full Day Countryside Tour: $32
  • 2.5-Hours Guided Countryside Sunset Bike Tour: $18
  • Full-Day Historical Park Cycling Tour with Lunch: $42
  • Half-Day Countryside Bike Tour: $26
  • Historical Park & Countryside Cycling Tour: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $12
    Yamaguchi $7.92


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Yamaguchi, we can see that Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sukhothai or Yamaguchi?

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

Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi in the Summer?

Both Yamaguchi and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Yamaguchi for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sukhothai is generally a little warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 29°C (84°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. It's quite rainy in Sukhothai. In July, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sukhothai 29°C (84°F) 
    Yamaguchi 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Yamaguchi in the Autumn?

Both Yamaguchi and Sukhothai during the autumn 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 visitors come to Yamaguchi in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Sukhothai is much warmer than Yamaguchi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Yamaguchi. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 94 mm (3.7 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sukhothai 28°C (83°F) 
    Yamaguchi 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Yamaguchi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Yamaguchi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sukhothai is much warmer than Yamaguchi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sukhothai in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Yamaguchi averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Yamaguchi. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sukhothai 25°C (77°F) 
    Yamaguchi 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Sukhothai or Yamaguchi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Yamaguchi. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the natural beauty.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Sukhothai is generally much warmer than Yamaguchi. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 32°C (89°F), and Yamaguchi fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Yamaguchi. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Yamaguchi. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Yamaguchi receives 162 mm (6.4 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sukhothai 32°C (89°F) 
    Yamaguchi 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Yamaguchi and Sukhothai

Sukhothai Yamaguchi
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Feb 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 30°C (86°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 32°C (89°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
May 31°C (87°F) 189 mm (7.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 276 mm (10.9 in)
Jul 29°C (84°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 257 mm (10.1 in) 27°C (81°F) 143 mm (5.6 in)
Sep 29°C (84°F) 241 mm (9.5 in) 24°C (75°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 157 mm (6.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 25°C (77°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)


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