A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Nikko for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Ao Nang or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Nikko? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a lively, accessible, and popular town. Ao Nang is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ao Nang travel costs.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Nikko travel costs.

Ao Nang and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Nikko?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nikko than Ao Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nikko is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ao Nang is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Ao Nang is well known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Nikko is well known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. Also, Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine.

How is Ao Nang different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Nikko?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Nikko has many famous sights for visitors. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nikko is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Nikko has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Ao Nang offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is great for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Ao Nang for the nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nikko is not a resort destination.

In Ao Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Nikko is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ao Nang is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Nikko is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a town with good options for its beaches. However, Nikko is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Ao Nang. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Nikko is not a beach destination.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ao Nang does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Ao Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nikko. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Nikko?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Ao Nang and Nikko.

Ao Nang has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Nikko is a great destination for shopping. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko More Beautiful?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Nikko is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. There are striking temples, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful nature that offers the perfect setting for losing yourself.

Ao Nang is a gorgeous place to visit. The surrounding area is filled with stunning beauty and wonderful excursions.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Families?

Nikko is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nikko. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Nikko makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang and Nikko are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Nikko. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Nikko. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

You'll find some public transit in Ao Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

Is Ao Nang or Nikko a more walkable city?

Ao Nang and Nikko are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Ao Nang is a very walkable destination. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Nikko is very walkable. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Ao Nang or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nikko due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko than Ao Nang 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 Nikko.

One day in Ao Nang or Nikko?

In Ao Nang, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this accessible destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Nikko?

Ao Nang is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Ao Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Nikko 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.

A week in Ao Nang or Nikko?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the accessible destination of Ao Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Nikko?

Nikko has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Nikko, 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 Ao Nang or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Nikko in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ao Nang is a little warmer than Nikko. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ao Nang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during summer. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nikko receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, August to October is the rainy season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Nikko in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Nikko. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nikko because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 27°C (81°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Ao Nang is the dry season. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Nikko in the Winter?

Both Nikko and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nikko in the winter. Ao Nang is much warmer than Nikko in the winter. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Nikko fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite sunny in Nikko. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during winter. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Nikko in the Spring?

Both Nikko and Ao Nang during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nikko for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ao Nang is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ao Nang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Nikko averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the spring, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Ao Nang. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in April than Nikko. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Ao Nang