A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yamaguchi vs. Koh Phi Phi for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi is a traditional, serene, and tranquil town. The beauty of Yamaguchi is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and food. See Yamaguchi travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Phi Phi. Although Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Koh Phi Phi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Phi Phi is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Yamaguchi is known for its museums and attractions and food. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Yamaguchi and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. It is also home to Koh Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay. Yamaguchi is popular for its temples, serene setting, and traditional ways.

How is Yamaguchi different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Yamaguchi is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Yamaguchi offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic shrines and temples in the area, as well as the Kintai Bridge.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

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

Yamaguchi is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yamaguchi is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Koh Phi Phi has a large number of nightlife venues. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

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 Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Koh Phi Phi offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Yamaguchi is not a resort destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

People travel to Koh Phi Phi specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Yamaguchi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Phi Phi are among the best in the world. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Yamaguchi is not a beach destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Phi Phi. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Yamaguchi. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the prefecture so that you can energy the natural setting.

Is the Shopping Better in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Koh Phi Phi is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Koh Phi Phi can be found for those interested. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Yamaguchi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Koh Phi Phi is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Yamaguchi is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The area is famed for its serene setting and natural beauty. There are many historic temples and pagodas in the area.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Yamaguchi is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Yamaguchi offers lots of family activities. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

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

Koh Phi Phi has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

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 Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Phi Phi is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Yamaguchi is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Koh Phi Phi, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

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

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi.

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

You'll find some public transit in Koh Phi Phi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Koh Phi Phi is somewhat walkable. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Yamaguchi Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Yamaguchi?

How long in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Phi Phi than in Yamaguchi. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yamaguchi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Phi Phi 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 Koh Phi Phi.

One day in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the serene town of Yamaguchi. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Koh Phi Phi. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the traditional destination of Yamaguchi. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the stunning destination of Koh Phi Phi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

The serene town of Yamaguchi offers food and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the rustic island of Koh Phi Phi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Yamaguchi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Koh Phi Phi is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi, we can see that Yamaguchi 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 Yamaguchi Expensive? and Is Koh Phi Phi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

Yamaguchi has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Yamaguchi and Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors come to Yamaguchi in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Yamaguchi is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 26°C (79°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Koh Phi Phi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Yamaguchi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Yamaguchi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Phi Phi. Yamaguchi gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Yamaguchi as well as Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Yamaguchi for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

Yamaguchi is cooler than Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Yamaguchi averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Yamaguchi usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Yamaguchi gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Yamaguchi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Yamaguchi because of the museums and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the winter, Yamaguchi is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Yamaguchi in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

In January, Yamaguchi usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Yamaguchi gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Phi Phi is December to March.

Should I visit Yamaguchi or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Yamaguchi during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Yamaguchi this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

In April, Yamaguchi is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Yamaguchi average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yamaguchi. Yamaguchi usually gets more rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Yamaguchi gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Yamaguchi