A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yokohama vs. Koh Tao for Families, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Yokohama or Koh Tao?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Yokohama or Koh Tao, 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.

Yokohama

Yokohama is a under-rated, laid-back, and diverse 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Yokohama travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a popular, laid back, and mellow island. The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Yokohama and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yokohama. Although Yokohama and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Yokohama has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yokohama is very popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Tao is more touristy than Yokohama and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Yokohama is famous for its tech industry, impressive Chinatown, and brightly lit skyline at night. It is also well known for the Yokohama Chinatown.

How is Yokohama different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

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

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

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Yokohama or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Yokohama and Koh Tao.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yokohama makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Koh Tao has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Yokohama and Koh Tao.

Yokohama is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is well known for its resorts. However, Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Koh Tao is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Yokohama is not a resort destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Koh Tao specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Yokohama is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is terrific for its beaches. However, Yokohama is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Tao are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Yokohama is not a beach destination.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Yokohama is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Yokohama is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Yokohama is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Yokohama is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Yokohama is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Yokohama and Koh Tao are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Yokohama frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Koh Tao is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is terrific for backpackers. Also, Yokohama is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

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.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Yokohama is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Yokohama. Students appreciate the cosmopolitan atmosphere and high quality of the educational institutions.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Yokohama is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination 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 Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Yokohama or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Yokohama and Koh Tao both are superb when exploring on foot.

Yokohama is very walkable. 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.

Koh Tao is a very walkable city. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Yokohama Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Yokohama?

How long in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Both Yokohama and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Yokohama. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Yokohama, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Yokohama 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 Tao.

One day in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Because Yokohama is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Because Yokohama is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yokohama has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Yokohama is a great place to explore. 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.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Yokohama or Koh Tao?

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

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tokyo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Yokohama or Koh Tao?

Yokohama has a larger population, and is about 2590 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Yokohama and Koh Tao, 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 Yokohama or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Yokohama during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Yokohama because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In the summer, Yokohama is around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Yokohama in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

In the summer, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Yokohama. Yokohama usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Yokohama and Koh Tao. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Yokohama this time of year. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Yokohama is generally cooler than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Yokohama average around 18°C (64°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Yokohama gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Yokohama gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Yokohama usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Yokohama as well as Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Yokohama for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Yokohama is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Yokohama averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In the winter, Yokohama often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 175 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Yokohama usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Yokohama or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Yokohama are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Yokohama in the spring for the activities around the city. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Yokohama is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Yokohama in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Yokohama usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Yokohama gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Yokohama. In April, Yokohama usually receives more rain than Koh Tao. Yokohama gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Yokohama