A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Koyasan for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Hiking

Should you visit Bali or Koyasan?

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 Bali and Koyasan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a lush, frequented, and spiritual island. The famous beauty of Bali is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Bali travel costs.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a spiritual, traditional, and peaceful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Koyasan is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food. See Koyasan travel costs.

Bali and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bali or Koyasan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bali than Koyasan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bali is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Bali is more touristy than Koyasan and is known for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Also, Bali is famous for Pura Lempuyang. Koyasan is well known for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Bali different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Koyasan?

Bali
Koyasan

Koyasan is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Koyasan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bali or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Bali, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Koyasan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Bali just to party. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Resorts?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Bali for its luxury resorts. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.


Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Bali. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Beaches?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Bali offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Bali
Koyasan

Koyasan is a well-known place for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Bali does not have a historic old town.


Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Koyasan is a good destination for hiking. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Koyasan?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bali is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bali or Koyasan More Beautiful?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Bali is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.


Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Families?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Bali is a very kid-friendly island. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Bali is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Koyasan is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bali
Koyasan

Bali is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.


Is Bali or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali
Koyasan

Both Bali and Koyasan offer notable public transit options.

Bali has a few public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Koyasan has some public transit options. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Is Bali or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Bali
Koyasan

Koyasan is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Koyasan is a very walkable town. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Bali?

How long in Bali or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bali or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bali than Koyasan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 7-14 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Koyasan 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 Bali.


  • How many days in Bali or Koyasan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bali 7-14 
    Koyasan 1-2

One day in Bali or Koyasan?

In Bali, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Bali or Koyasan?

In Bali, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Koyasan?

Bali is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, five days is probably not enough for all of it. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bali or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bali. In Bali, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Because Koyasan is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.


Which place is cheaper, Koyasan or Bali?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bali is $85, while the average daily cost in Koyasan is $95. 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 Bali and Koyasan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bali $40
    Koyasan $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bali $80
    Koyasan $82
Compare Hotels in Bali and Koyasan

Looking for a hotel in Bali or Koyasan? 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 Bali


Hotels in Koyasan


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: Bali Hotel Prices and Koyasan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bali $8.68
    Koyasan $34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bali

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Bali:


  • Motorbike Rental
    $2.98

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bali

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bali:

  • All Inclusive Batur Sunrise Treking Guide Ticket And Transfer : $60
  • Bali DPS Airport Private Transfer from-to Uluwatu & South Kuta: $31
  • Bali Nusa Dua Combo Parasailing And Snorkeling Include Transfer: $35
  • Bali Parasailing Adventure with Including Hotel Transfer: $45
  • Bali Parasailing Adventure,Banana Boat,Jet Ski and Donut Boat with Transfers: $69
  • Bali Spiritual: Blessing Ceremony, Pristine Nature and Transfer: $115
  • Bali Water Sport : Sea Walker,Donut Boat and Banana Boat with Hotel Transfers: $72
  • Denpasar Departure Transfer: Hotel to Airport: $25
  • LuxMe Bali Four Hands massage with Hotel Transfer: $58
  • Nusa Dua Departure transfer to Bali Airport International (DPS): $13
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Bali Airport to Hotel: $32
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Denpasar International Airport to Nusa Dua Area: $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Bali or Koyasan?

Prices for flights to both Koyasan and Bali 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
    Bali $34
    Koyasan $34
Typical Food Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bali are as follows:


  • Coffee
    $1.19
  • Lunch for Two
    $13
  • Bali Cafe for Two
    $26
  • Lunch for Two
    $7.75
  • Lunch for 2
    $8.59
  • Dinner for 2
    $9.42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bali

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bali.

  • Romantic Seafood Dinner under sunset jimbaran Beach: $36
  • Romantic Seafood Dinner at Jimbaran: $40
  • South Bali Beach Tour, Uluwatu Sunset Kecak Fire Dance & Seafood Barbeque Dinner: $50
  • Kekeb Cooking Class at Nusa Dua: $55
  • Bali Famous Beach, Kecak Dance, Uluwatu Temple, Sunset, Dinner: $65
  • Bali Street Food Tour: $65
  • Sidemen Cooking Class: $77
  • Pure Bali Village Experience, Cooking & Jamu Class+VIP Transfer: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bali $10
    Koyasan $14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bali

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bali are as follows:


  • Spa for Two
    $52
  • Snorkelling Trip
    $12
  • Cooking School
    $27

Tours and Activities in Bali

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bali are as follows:

  • Kecak and Fire Dance Ticket at Uluwatu Temple: $14
  • Best of Ubud Full Day Private Guided Tour: $14
  • Tickets for the Kecak Dance Performance at Melasti Beach: $15
  • Tickets for the Kecak Dance Performance at Uluwatu Temple: $17
  • Uluwatu Kecak Tickets A Spectacular Show: $17
  • Besakih Mother Temple Tukad Cepung East Bali Private Guided Tour: $23
  • Alas Harum Bali Cretya Tegalalang Rice Terrace Ubud Swing Ticket: $25
  • Private Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Fire Dance Evening Tour in Jimbaran Bay: $27
  • Bali Quad Bike ATV Rides in Uluwatu Experiences: $28
  • Gunung Kawi Rice Terrace Swing And Waterfall Private Guided Tour : $28
  • Uluwatu Temple Entry and Kecak Fire Dance Ticket: $29
  • Uluwatu & Kecak Dance Tour: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bali $3.07
    Koyasan $5.07


When comparing the travel costs between Bali and Koyasan, we can see that Koyasan 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 Bali Expensive? and Is Koyasan Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Bali or Koyasan?

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

Should I visit Bali or Koyasan in the Summer?

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

Bali is around the same temperature as Koyasan in the summer. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Koyasan fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Bali, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bali usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Bali gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Bali usually receives less rain than Koyasan. Bali gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer. April to September in Bali is the dry season.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Koyasan 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Bali or Koyasan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bali as well as Koyasan. Bali attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bali is a little warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bali in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Koyasan averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bali this time of the year. In the autumn, Bali often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Bali gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Bali usually gets less rain in October than Koyasan. Bali gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Bali is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Koyasan 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Bali or Koyasan in the Winter?

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

In January, Bali is generally much warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Bali average around 26°C (79°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Bali usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Bali gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bali usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Bali gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Bali is October to March.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bali 26°C (79°F) 
    Koyasan 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Bali or Koyasan in the Spring?

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

Bali is much warmer than Koyasan in the spring. The daily temperature in Bali averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Koyasan fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Bali. In the spring, Bali often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Bali gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bali usually gets less rain in April than Koyasan. Bali gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. April to September is the dry season in Bali.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bali 27°C (81°F) 
    Koyasan 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Bali

Bali Koyasan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 26°C (79°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 27°C (81°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (47°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)
May 28°C (82°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (67°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 50 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 208 mm (8.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 29°C (84°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 50 mm (2 in) 25°C (76°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 27°C (81°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)